6 of the World's Most Stylish People Show Us How to Wear Cargo Pants Now

If there’s one trend winning over fashion girls everywhere this season, it’s unquestionably the utility trend. You may have noticed that your Insta feed has been flooded with patch pockets, shades of khaki, and boilersuits, and that’s all thanks to the abundance of utilitarian pieces that were all over the spring runways of designers like Fendi and Givenchy.

If you’re eager to hop on the bandwagon, may we suggest a cool pair of cargo pants as your first foray into the world of functional fashion? They may conjure up images of ’90s girl bands, and let’s not forget the queen of combat pants—Jennifer Aniston, but in our book, they’re a welcome alternative to our tired old jeans. Plus, with so many extra pockets, we can now rock that teeny tiny mini bag we can’t fit a thing in.

So how should we be wearing combat pants in 2019? Ahead, we’re sharing the coolest ways to style them this season. See and shop our favorite cargo pants of the season below.

Cargo Pants + Blazer + Tee 

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

To add instant polish to your cargo pants, pair them with a plain black tee, a longline black blazer, and slip-on mules. Keep the accessories streamlined in the same color palette.

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Cargo Pants + Graphic Tee + Heeled Mules

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

A graphic tee tucked into cargo pants exudes a cool, edgy aesthetic. A high-waisted silhouette will keep your outfit modern. Pull the look together with PVC sandals.

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Cargo Pants + Lace-Up Ankle Boots

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(Image credit: Sandra Semburg)

Try a fresh silhouette and opt for tapered cargo pants, which look unquestionably chic when paired with of-the-moment lace-up boots and a fun tee.

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Cargo Pants + White Button-Down

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(Image credit: Sandra Semburg)

Sometimes the simplest looks are the most striking. When paired with a crisp white button-down, cargo pants look professional and polished. Finish with pointed-toe pumps (preferably in a this season's animal print.)

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Cargo Pants + Cargo Shirt

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Why not go head-to-toe utility and match your pants to a utility jacket? Break up the look with a graphic tee and a cool belt bag. Pointed-toe heels will help elevate the look.

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Cargo Pants + Crystal-Embellished Accessories 

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(Image credit: Sandra Semburg)

Cargo pants can work for an evening out too! Style a neutral pair with a statement jeweled cape and crystal-embellished accessories.

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Up next, so these are the jeans trends we'll be wearing in six months.

Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.