What to Wear with Cargo Trousers

From their roots military uniform to a modern must-have, cargo trousers strike the effortless balance of practical and polished – with a touch of edge. Here’s how to wear them well

Content editor

Nabeela Saghir

Woman wearing khaki jacket, white top, black cargo trousers and white trainers

The best cargo trousers and how to style them

Enter the trouser on everyone’s wish list: the perennially-cool cargo. With their signature pockets, durable fabric and relaxed silhouette, cargo trousers are officially back on our radar – now redefined with elevated fabrics and flattering cuts, they blend function and fashion for an ultra-fresh look.

Case in point? This pair of wide-leg cargo trousers – cut high on the waist, with a fluid silhouette and built-in belt for subtle sculpting – balance comfort and polish in equal measure. You'll find them available in jewel-toned burgundy, khaki, and timeless black to match every mood.

Pair with a slick bomber and trainers for the ultimate in off-duty wear, or why not swap in a blouse and ballet pumps for after-dark occasions? The best cargo trousers do it all.

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Woman wearing green cargo trousers and black heeled boots

How to style cargo trousers for every occasion

Once reserved for hiking trails and early 2000s nostalgia, cargo trousers have undergone a quiet transformation, emerging as one of the most versatile and style-forward staples in the modern wardrobe.

For relaxed weekends or coffee runs, opt for an olive-green pair, teamed with a white T-shirt and slouchy denim jacket. Just add a crossbody bag and box-fresh trainers and you’re ready to head out of the door. Heading somewhere smarter? Switch to a black pair, styled with a silky cami and sharp blazer – proof that utility can be polished as well as practical.

Far from a fleeting trend, cargo trouser outfits have cemented their status as an everyday essential and the ultimate wear-anywhere piece.

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Woman wearing white shirt, navy cargo trousers and black ballet flats

What shoes to wear with cargo trousers

Styling cargo trousers starts from the ground up – the right shoes can completely shift the tone of an outfit, whether you’re elevating it, softening it, or leaning into its utilitarian roots.

When considering what shoes to wear with cargo trousers, trainers are your low-effort, high-impact option: fresh white keeps things clean, whilst chunkier styles bring a modern, street-led edge. Loafers are a refined choice for desk-to-dinner ease, and ballet flats lend a subtle, softer finish. Going out-out? A pointed pump transforms the look entirely – going from functional to refined in one effortless step.

Versatile by nature, cargo trousers work hard with almost every shoe in your wardrobe. The only rule? Let the shoes set the tone.

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Published 7.30.2025