(Style)

It’s Official: Cargo Pants Are 2022’s Most Unexpected & Ubiquitous Trend

Gorpcore, anyone?

by Emma Childs
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Allow fashion’s finest street style stars to convince you why a pair of cargo pants deserves a spot in your capsule wardrobe. Ahead, you’ll find outfit ideas dedicated to the “ugly,” utilitarian bottoms, ranging from looks with a sporty-casual vibe to fashion week-worthy ensembles.

Melodie Jeng/Getty Images

A foolproof method for ensuring a garment exudes a refined essence is to opt for one made of leather. Consider styling a pair of leather cargo pants with a sleek, blazer-style blouse and your go-to pumps.Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
How about adding a wide, corset-style belt atop your bottoms? The cinched piece will add visual intrigue to your ensemble and give the utilitarian pants a feminine feel.Christian Vierig/Getty Images
You could also tuck a pair of cargo pants into tall boots for a more put-together, stylized effect. Bonus points if your shoes have a naturally slouchy look, as they’ll mirror the tucked-in vibe of the trousers.Melodie Jeng/Getty Images
Pay homage to the subversive basics phenomenon by donning a cutout tank or tee with skin-revealing slits. The trend is effortlessly cool; therefore, your cargo bottoms will feel elevated and nonchalant, too. Melodie Jeng/Getty Images
When in doubt, play with textures. For this, consider a pair of satin cargo pants teamed with a cool mesh tank. Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Oh, and, of course, there’s always the tonal dressing dressing trend. Choose a pair of colorful cargo pants and then piece together an outfit consisting of separates in a similar shade.Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
So far, 2022’s denim trends indicate a baggy look is the most sought-after amongst It-girls and fashion connoisseurs alike. How about joining in on the oversized fun with a pair of roomy cargo jeans?Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Consider pairing separates that have polar-opposite vibes for an invigorating clash of aesthetics. Case in point: black, nylon cargo pants styled with a vibrant, puff-sleeve blouse is an inspired and unexpected choice.Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
The daytime disco trend prevails — and now even cargo pants have become high-shine-ified. Take note, however, that they are paired with minimal white separates, effectively balancing out the statement look of metallic bottoms.Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
You can also give the practical trousers a sporty-meets-preppy spin by wearing them with a pinstriped blazer, graphic tee, and chunky sneakers. Princess Diana, a noted sporty prepster, would definitely approve.Melodie Jeng/Getty Images
For a guaranteed dopamine rush, experiment with an unexpected, wintry color combination — like highlighter yellow contrasted against cerulean. Let your imagination run wild.Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Found: Your next outfit for a casual Sunday brunch with your besties. The cargo pants exude a down-to-earth vibe while the sleek leather trench adds a luxurious touch. Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
If you’re one to dabble in the unexpected and aren’t afraid to test drive new silhouettes, team cargo pants with a sculptural top in an exaggerated shape. Then, add a subtle pop of neon, and your experimental yet grounded look is complete.Matthew Sperzel/Getty Images
Pair cargo pants with a sleek leather jacket and hefty lug-sole boots for a grunge-inspired take. And why not throw in a bold pop of color — like a punch crimson, for instance — too?Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Lean into the earthy-crunchy, gorpcore vibe of the pant by choosing a naturally toned puffer jacket. Then, slip into your most trusty pair of sneakers and finish the look off with some ‘70s-inspired aviators. Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

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