Cargo pants are making a comeback and have become the go-to casual wear for men. Pair them with t-shirts, hoodies, and other casualwear to create the perfect look for a day out on the town.
Cargo pants made of linen for a sophisticated yet casual style. These well-fitting pants feature many pockets to hold all of your necessities, and they look fantastic with a clean polo shirt.
Military-Inspired Style
The best way to style cargo pants is to consider your aesthetic. If your wardrobe leans toward a classic, military-inspired look, pair them with boxy chore jackets and gilets for a rugged outfit. You can also choose a more modern, streetwear-inspired look by pairing them with tees and sneakers.
Regardless of your style, there’s no denying that cargo pants for men are making a comeback. They’re a favorite among police officers, army recruits, and anyone else in uniform. Still, they’re also seen as the ideal wardrobe staple for those who work outdoors in construction, landscaping, or other jobs that require sturdy clothing with lots of storage space.
While some might be quick to dismiss the idea of cargo pants resurfacing, fashion insiders say that the trend is real and here to stay. We’re amidst a military-inspired renaissance, with designers regularly delving into regimental-style archives and offering purpose-built civilian designs.
In addition to the oversized pockets adorning the baggy silhouette, these styles often feature jetted side pockets, larger belt loops, and extra slim fits—so you can still take advantage of their practical functionality without losing sight of your unique style. If you’re ready to ride the cargo pants train, browse this selection of options for a wide range of price points and silhouettes.
Casual Comfort
Cargo pants are a casual wear staple. Look for pairs in lighter fabrics that are comfortable to wear, and pair them with a sweater vest, T-shirt, or a casual shirt and boots. If you have an intelligent, simple work dress code, cargo pants made from tailoring fabrics can easily fit into your wardrobe as a stylish alternative to the standard suit.
Introduced initially to British forces in 1938, American paratroopers adopted them as part of their basic daily uniform, using the large pockets to hold field gear, maps, and K rations. While they may not be as practical as the originals, the current cargo pants for men still offer plenty of room to store your essentials. The latest designs often feature a baggy silhouette and multiple pockets and can be worn for casual and semi-formal occasions depending on the fabric and cut of the pair.
It features two cargo and two side pockets, with a drawstring around the waist and ankles to adjust the fit. The soft and supple cotton fabric is easy to move in, and the drawstrings let you adjust how loose or tight the pants are around your legs. The relaxed style makes them perfect for outdoor activities or chilling out with friends. Pair them with a button-up shirt and boots for a more innovative look or a graphic tee for a casual outing.
Formal Wear
In the fashion world, it’s not unusual for something to come back in style years after being declared “out.” Cargo pants were once considered a fad that went out of favor—but now they’re looking pretty good again.
Cargo pants are versatile enough for casual and semi-formal occasions, depending on the material and cut. Men’s casual cargo pants are cotton, featuring a loose, straight fit with multiple pockets. Pair them with a crisp white tee for a bright, casual look. These cargo pants are perfect for hiking, working out, and running errands.
A few years ago, you could only find a baggy pair of cargo pants that looked like they were raided from the military surplus store. But now, you can discover slimming-down versions that are as stylish as chinos and leagues more comfortable.
These pants are made of Flex stretch fabric for a soft, flexible feel that moves with you. The legs have a tapered silhouette that’s comfortable for walking and moving around, and they’re trimmed with a belt loop for adding your favorite belt.
Fashionable Functionality
It’s no secret that fashion trends come and go. Many once-ubiquitous styles fade away before making a reappearance years later, and cargo pants are no exception. They’re enjoying a renaissance right now. Thankfully, the cargo pants in rotation aren’t big and baggy like they were back in the day. Instead, the new crop of men’s cargo pants are sleek and tailored with the same functionality as your favorite pair of jeans.
As a result, they’re firmly less skater boys than before and more grown-up with good taste. Plus, they’re comfortable to wear all year round, even in the summer.
Cargo pants are versatile enough for almost any occasion but are especially well-suited for smart casual wear. Teamed with a T-shirt and sneakers, they feel like a natural fit. They also work well with blazers and brogues and lend a laid-back touch to formal outfits like suits.