As Who What Wear’s senior fashion market editor, I get asked a lot of shopping questions. This is one of my favorite and most satisfying parts of the job. Truly. There is nothing better than giving someone a helping hand to find that perfect piece they’re looking for. (Btw, if you ever have a burning fashion query you need answered, I do a monthly Q&A on WWW’s Insta Stories).
It’s always interesting to see what people ask about seasonally and what wearable trends they want to buy into. Over the past few months one of the most asked about items I’ve seen come up in my DM’s has been—drumroll, please—cargo pants. Yes, the military-inspired canvas pants with giant pockets from the early 2000s are back. In fact, they’ve been gaining traction for a few seasons now—and their popularity shows no signs of slowing down this fall/winter season.
On the runways the Y2K casual trend was spotted in loose, wide-leg, and low slung varieties from denim cargoes at Isabel Marant to pink polished iterations at Valentino. We’ve spotted them all over our favorite It-girls (hello, Hailey Bieber) and the fashion crowd can’t get enough of them this season. It’s easy to see why—they exude a fresh, comfortable, casual, and indisputably cool vibe.
Below, I wanted to share 28 pairs that have my attention right now. Whether you pair them with pointed-toe kitten heels and a blazer to dress them up or a pair of Adidas Samba Sneakers and a relaxed sweater for casual occasions—these pants are as versatile as your jeans and may very well become your favorite new trend.
This khaki straight-leg style is so easy to wear.
So good for the price.
The corduroy fabric adds the perfect fall touch.
How comfy does this relaxed fit look?
The Frankie Shop cargo pants seen on practically every fashion person this season.
Sleek enough to wear to work.
Just add sneakers and a chunky sweater.
For a polished look opt for a high-rise silhouette.
This gray hue feels fresh.
Another Frankie Shop winner.
Take your cargo pants into the night with this striking satin pair.
I wouldn’t blame you if you lived in these all weekend.
This dark brown hue feels of-the-moment.
A subtle take on denim cargoes.
Affordable and cool.
This nylon fabric feels uniquely different.
A crisp white pair exudes and effortless elegance.
More silky fabrics please!
The plush fabric makes them perfect for the cold-weather season.
We want to style this pair exactly as the model.
Another chic denim option.
Perfect if you want that extra-baggy look.
These will take you from meetings to margaritas in style.
So versatile.
So many styling possibilities.
Wear with heels, a belt, and a cropped tweed jacket for one chic look.
For the maximalists out there.
I’m a fan of the elasticated waist.
Up next, 45 fall tops that will make your jeans outfits look expensive.
