Cargo Pants: Why You Should Have Them in Your Wardrobe?

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The cargo pants are the new fashion trend that is taking the fashion world by storm. 

This relaxed pant, originally designed for the military, has now become a symbol of urban style. 

With its loose fit, numerous pockets, and durable fabric, the cargo pants are attracting younger generations in search of comfort and practicality. 

In this article, we will explore the origin and evolution of this iconic piece, as well as the reasons for its growing popularity. We will also see how to wear it stylishly and tips for choosing the right one.
So, ready to embark on a journey into the heart of the cargo pants trend?

Origin and evolution of cargo pants

A key piece in the wardrobe, cargo pants have had several lives. And while they are now popular within the fashion sphere, they were originally designed for purely functional purposes. 

Initially, they were created to meet the needs of soldiers during the world wars. The side pockets allowed them to easily carry small items and equipment, such as ammunition and knives. 

Cargo pants became popular in the culture during the 90s, when military clothing began to be adopted by youth as a symbol of counterculture and non-conformity. 

In the 90s, urban style and street influences dominated. The cargo found its place in the wardrobes of bad boys and rappers. But even better, it became more feminine, being adopted by more and more women who love its rebellious look and masculine cut.

The 2000s marked the peak of wide pants. Military baggy became the star of pants alongside low-rise jeans, capris, and other flared pants. 

Today, cargo pants are a must-have fashion item, worn by many young people for their comfort, functionality, and casual look. Their comeback is therefore not surprising.

How have cargo pants conquered the fashion scene?

The characteristics of cargo pants

At the crossroads of military aesthetics and streetwear influences, these pants from another time are considered an iconic and characterful piece. And for good reason, they have characteristics that no other pant can take away from them.

They are recognized for their utility and convenience. They have two large side pockets that are practical and functional. Their design is quite discreet and unadorned, even if it tends to modernize. As for their cut, it is originally straight and loose. 

But today’s cargo is no longer what it used to be. High fashion houses have understood this well and have reinvented it to adapt to today’s tastes, aesthetics, and habits.  

We find cargo in much more contemporary versions. Gone are the days of black and khaki; fuchsia pink, beige, blue, and other trendy shades have printed on these pants. The materials have also multiplied. You can find cargos in cotton, satin, leather, etc. As for the shapes, while they were worn low-rise in the 2000s, they are now worn high-waisted, belted at the waist, or even oversized.

In short, genres have democratized to give way to a more hybrid form of cargo pants without renouncing what we love about this baggy: retro and street influences.

Military pants trend: what explains its popularity?

According to Google Trends, the search volume for “cargo pants” has increased by more than 80% over the last 5 years. This proves that these pants with a military aesthetic are generating real enthusiasm within the fashion sphere. But why? How can we explain the rise of this piece of men’s fashion?

Several reasons can explain it.

We can start with the very functionality of the pants. The practicality of clothing is now a major asset to convince consumers. While aesthetics are still key in the purchasing decision, comfort and functionality criteria have also joined the conversation. And cargo pants have everything to meet the need for practicality among young people. With their large side pockets, you can easily store your essentials and accessories like your phone, wallet, or lipstick without carrying a bag.

Another reason is the belonging to a rising trend. Cargo pants have experienced a resurgence of popularity thanks to the Y2K trend (or 2000s) which is a throwback to the fashion of the 2000s. Very popular at that time among celebrities, they have become a timeless piece but especially a staple of 90s style. 

Finally, a trend would be nothing without its alert launchers, also known as influencers or fashion icons. Those who shape market trends have shown their taste for military pants. Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Gigi and Bella Hadid, and Rihanna have all fallen for these reimagined baggy pants. And this clearly plays into the popularity of a piece.

How to wear cargo pants today?

How to wear cargo pants for women in 2023? What goes well with cargo ? What top to wear with cargo pants? If you want to integrate this timeless piece into your basics, these are questions you must have thought about. So, let’s talk style! Let’s discover how to dress with cargo.

Wear cargo pants in an urban style 

If you have the soul of a loyalist and want to keep the authenticity of a piece, an urban outfit will suit you. In this version, the cargo is worn as a standalone piece that enhances the streetwear accents of the outfit.

Two great options are then available to you.

The first is to go for 100% street fashion. Choose a comfortable cargo, with a loose or even XXL fit, in denim, in a sanded or khaki shade, which you pair with sneakers. For the top, play with contrast with the inevitable white crop top. To cover up, don a soft knit in a gentle or bold color of your choice. And don’t forget to accessorize your outfit with a pair of earrings and a mix of jewelry.

The other option, is to channel the revival of the 2000s. Open the fashion archives of your favorite childhood celebrities and copy the style of Britney, Paris, or Rihanna. For that, match your pair of heels with your ankle-elasticized cargo. Slip on your baguette bag, and don’t forget to wear a top that boldly reveals your belly!

Opt for the chic version of cargo pants

If the urban route doesn’t convince you, you can always turn to elegance, as Anne Hathaway knows how to do. 

The golden rule for this is to think sophistication. Deliberately feminize your outfit by combining cargo pants with more classic pieces, feminine accessories, more linear cuts, and neutral colors. 

And since military pants are already a strong piece, keep it simple. There’s no need to overdo it; play subtly with contrasts while keeping minimalism and simplicity in mind.

To achieve this look, opt for a blazer that, by nature, contrasts with the cargo. The blazer is chic, feminine, and fitted. It will pair very well with the “all-terrain” cargo pants and create a balance. Also, think about a shirt, an effective and elegant classic. The cardigan will soften the outfit. And for the delicate touch, don’t forget the shoes. A pair of heels will clearly elevate your outfit!

Follow a golden rule: never overdo it

Last advice for knowing how to dress with cargo: aim for simplicity.

I mentioned it in the previous paragraph, but the cargo is already a statement piece. Due to its pockets, cut, and aesthetics, it visually takes up space. The fashion faux pas would be to add layers, frills, and unnecessary accessories.
To be sure to be trendy with cargo, focus on what is simple. Think of minimalistic outfits, monochrome looks, basics, or clean styles… In short, everything that seems accessible and visually clear to you.

Buying cargo pants: our Modalova selection

Assertive, versatile, retro, and undeniably trendy, the cargo pants are definitely a piece to have in your wardrobe. Their inspiration and atypical cut give them the advantage of being combined with a lot of styles. Sometimes street, sometimes elegant, you will enjoy wearing them for various occasions. And don’t forget that as a retro piece, thrift stores will give you the chance to snag a vintage one!

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