Cargo pants made a comeback for me over a year ago. Honestly, I’ve always loved the right pair of cargos. In my humble opinion, the right pair of cargos is a little tricky to find. I don’t like cargo pants that are too fitted or have pockets too high up on the thighs or are too thin or silky. For my style, I want them to look and feel a little utilitarian.
Last year, I fell in love with this comfy pair of cargo pants from Free People and I haven’t looked back…except to consider getting them in a second color!
Cargo Jeans, Revisited: How I’m Wearing The Same Pants In Every Season
As a big fan of black-washed denim, I love black cargo jean, too. This pair from Free People is made from soft, washed cotton denim that’s not too heavy but not too lightweight. Constructed kinda as pull-on jeans, they feature a traditional zipper and button closure but the waistband in the back is elastic for a super comfy fit.
I’ve worn the HECK out of these pants over the last year and had no idea they would become such favorites — all year round!
Cargo Pants (S)
Styling: I prefer wearing my cargo pants rolled a bit to create a chunky hem, but they can be super cute full-length over heels or sneakers, too!
Fit Details: The fit is true to size, but size up if you want a looser fit or a little more room in the waist. It does have a back elastic band as I mentioned, but the front is trouser-style.
This is the size small and I could almost go for the medium but they’ve broken in to fit just beautifully with wear. As a reminder, I’m 5’4″ and a size 6.
Cargo Pants (S)
I love these things! Here’s a little back view of these pants. The fit is great. The seam detailing, the just-right placement of the cargo pockets, and a booty that fits like a great pair of jeans…all make these an awesome choice.
Summer Cargos: With Black Cropped Tank & Metallic Sandals
A great way to make all black feel fresh for warmer months? Accessories. Here I am hopping on yet another trend with a fun metallic sandal, with studs obviously.
Tank (similar) | Cargo Pants (S) | Sandals |Bag (similar)
Keep it fresh and kick it up a notch with a white bag in a fun structured shape. Or a white tote will do for more casual situations. I adore this combo and once it is FINALLY actually nice here in Portland I will be rocking this weekly. Voilá. Black pants summer-ified.
Between Seasons Cargos: With An Ivory Blazer & Platforms
Blazer (similar) | Pants (S) | Shoes | Bag
In spring and summer and the in-between seasons, I love to lighten up black denim by adding a blazer in ivory or white.
Platform sandals AND cargo pants…who am I with all these trendy trend pieces? I dunno but I like it. A lot. I said in my latest workout wear post that I love a blazer moment and it’s true. I LOVE a blazer moment.
Spring Cargos: With A Classic Tee, adidas Superstars & A Cross-Body Bag
Tee (similar) | Pants (S) | Sneakers | Bag
This is pretty much just a simple tee and sneakers thrown on with the cargos, but pulling in the black-and-white graphic elements adds a pop of pattern and fun. A pastel sling bag (ooh or this one I’ve been eyeing from Athleta) would also be nice with this combo. Spring walks to school, errands, casual weekend ‘fit…that’s the vibe here.
Fall Cargos: With My Fave Button Up, Booties & A White Bag
Top (Similar) | Pants (S) | Boots | Bag (similar)
Because it’s still chilly here, I’m still covering up and wore this just the other day, but it’d be amazing in fall, too. I’m loving the juxtaposition of my feminine blouse with the utilitarian cargos.
I adore these ruffled tops from Clare V so much (mine is a print from last year,) but if you want a spring or summer option, go for a sleeveless ruffled top, like this one.
Winter Cargos: With A Graphic Tee, Denim Jacket & Cowboy Boots
Shacket (similar) | Tee | Pants (S) | Boots (similar)
I have always loved mixing genres — the black graphic tee with cargos here could go very grunge, but instead, I pulled in a denim shacket and short cowboy boots to keep people nice and confused. Haha. Fashion!
It works well to mix in unexpected pieces like this — it helps move an outfit away from costume-y and more towards intentional but fun. I’d throw on a giant scarf or layer an oversized coat or trench on top for the chillier temps.
xo,
L
Want to keep up with everything else I’m into? Pop over to my Instagram @laurajansenstyle where I love talking about food, sharing OOTDs, posting travel pics, and everyday mom life stuff in Portland, Oregon. Oh, and lots of sarcastic memes and cute pet videos because what is social media without plenty of those? xoxo
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