We don’t need to convince anyone that it’s worth having at least one pair of jeans in your wardrobe (or in my case, one in every wash imaginable). But how about cargo jeans? Yes, you read that right—I’m talking about denim cargo trousers. And I can understand how this particular style might not be for everyone.
Admittedly, I needed some persuading to support this revived trend. Because this isn’t the first time we’ve seen cargo jeans, and while there’s no denying that Y2K fashion has come back in full force over the past few seasons, those who lived through it the first time tend to have mixed feelings. After all, we want our sartorial tastes to look a little more Bella Hadid than Backstreet Boys, right?
But all it took was some guidance from Instagram’s most skilled dressers and I was able to push my natural aversion to noughties trends aside. It turns out, cargo jeans are almost as versatile as regular jeans, working with everything from cropped knitwear to oversized blazers, and the abundance of pockets adds an interesting dimension to the outfits.
Need further convincing? Carry on to see my favourite looks involving cargo jeans courtesy of some of our favourite IG stars, then keep scrolling to shop the most stylish pairs I’ve spotted on my travels.
Jen gives her cargo jeans a smart spin, teaming them with a relaxed blazer and white mules. Very of-the-moment.
Cargos can be just as wearable as regular jeans—style them as you would straight-legs, like Ciara with her shacket-and-boots combination.
Brighter days are coming, so take your cues from Alyssa and inject some colour into your look. I’ll be spending the rest of my afternoon hunting down a pair of blue court shoes.
Cristina shows how you can build a chic look around cargo jeans using pieces you probably already own.
When the temperature rises, switch out your boots for sandals like Annabel to carry this trend into the summer months.
In my eyes, this is the perfect spring outfit. A cute cropped cardi will keep the cold at bay, and chunky clogs are set to be *the* footwear choice of 2023. Thanks, Ellie.
Our very own Affiliates Editor, Emily Dawes, looks so chic in her Mango jeans paired with a leather bomber jacket and heeled boots. Perfection!
Tick 2 trends in one outfit by wearing your cargo jeans with a suede jacket, just like Tanice.
You can always rely on H&M to offer an affordable way into a trend.
This light wash is ideal for springtime.
Wide-leg meets cargo with this on-trend pair.
These relaxed jeans are easy to dress up or down.
Keen to change it up from classic blue? White jeans feel super fresh.
Plenty of pockets to house all your essentials.
I have my heart set on these khaki cargos—plus the matching shirt.
Dip your toe into the trend with this subtle two-pocket pair.
Style these with colourful sneakers and an oversized knit.
Yes, skinny jeans are back—and they’re not excluded from the cargo trend.
Ganni knows how to take a trend and make it even cooler.
There’s something very Y2K about these jeans.
I love the baggier leg on these classic khaki jeans.
Polished in the front, party in the back.
A great option for casual everyday outfits.
When a piece features topstitching, I instantly fall in love.
