The new decade has seen a whole lot of 00s trends coming back around, but one we were not expecting was the cargo pants resurgence. Practical and stylish, it actually makes a lot of sense they're once again a wardrobe staple. Especially as they can be worn sleek or oversized and styled with everything from Nike Dunks or Manolo heels.
Celebrities and royals wearing cargo pants
Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley have all been spotted wearing cargo pants. Even Princess Kate has made a case for cargo pants recently, wearing a G-Star Raw pair multiple times, from the Big Lunch during the Coronation weekend to visiting the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team in Wales.
We previously saw Kate wearing the same pair to spend a morning with the Irish Guards on Salisbury Plain in March and with a classic white T-shirt and safari shirt during her royal tour of the Caribbean in 2022.
A favourite of Rosie Huntington-Whitely, she's been seen looking so chic in a beige parachute pair with drawstring detail on Instagram.
Bella Hadid is basically synonymous with cargo pants. She wears her wide-leg pairs with chunky boots and loafers, and styles tapered pairs with sky-high barely-there heels.
Meanhwhile, cargo pants are an off-duty staple for Hailey Bieber, who always wears a wide-leg pair with chunky boots or trainers, from New Balance to adidas.
To wear the look for yourself, we've found all of the must-have pairs of cargo trousers available online.
How we chose the best cargo pants
- Variety: As demonstrated above, cargo trousers are back in both wide-leg and skinny fits. We've found a mix of both, so whether you're more of a Kate or a Rosie, there's something for everyone. Many pairs suit both trainers and heels, so you'll get plenty of wear out of them.
- Price: We've searched for cargo pants for all budgets, from affordable high street pairs at £29.99 to more premium forever pieces at £186.
- Practicality: Part of the cargo pants appeal is how comfy and practical they are. We've chosen pairs in quality, lightweight fabrics, many of which have patch pockets and elasticated waistbands.
The best cargo pants to shop now
New Look Khaki Cuffed Cargo Trousers
New Look's cuffed slim-fit cargo trousers are so similar to Princess Kate's. They're made from a soft cotton fabric and feature a high waisted cut.
Reformation Bilijana Relaxed Cargo Pants
These Reformation cargo pants are fitted around the hips and waist, falling to a relaxed straight leg - so flattering. The sleek pair suits both heels and trainers.
Arket Cargo Trousers
Made from pure cotton, Arket's ultra comfortable cargo trousers are detailed with front pockets and side pockets at the knees. They have an adjustable drawstring waistband which can be worn on the hips or at the waist.
H&M Wide-Leg Cargo Trousers
These classic khaki cargo pants come in a cool wide-leg cut with diagonal patch pockets. Very Bella Hadid.
Mango Parachute Cargo Pants
Channel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Mango's parachute-style cargo pants. Available in sand, black and off-white, they come in a flowy cotton fabric with an adjustable waist and hems.
Frankie Shop Maesa Wide-leg Cargo Pants
We love the pressed pleated detail on these tailored wide-leg cargo pants by Frankie Shop. Both polished and relaxed, they're a must-buy for every season.
Reiss Dion Flared Cargo Trousers
If you didn't think cargo pants could be chic, these flared trousers from Reiss could change your mind. Made from a cotton-blend, they feature a high-rise waist and two classic patch pockets.
AllSaints Frieda High-Rise Cargo Trousers
AllSaints has a collection of luxe tapered-leg cargo pants that look amazing with stilettos. We love these ones in washed olive green.
M&S Tencel Rich Cargo Trousers
With their elasticated waist and loosely tapered fit, these straight-leg cargo pants from M&S promise to be super comfortable. Made with sustainability in mind, they've been tea-dyed with natural colourants for less environmental impact.
Nobody's Child Black Cargo Utility Pants
Nobody's Child's straight-leg black cargo trousers are perfect to throw on with a tank or crop top and chunky sandals this summer. They have an oversized fit, so size down if necessary.
Hush Caro Linen Cargo Trousers
Wear these Hush cargo pants with a white-tee or linen shirt for a stylish tonal outfit this summer. They're made from a breathable linen blend in a loose, floaty fit - perfect for summer.
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