When I was originally doing some trend research, I was a little skeptical about Y2K trends coming back. Or, rather…nervous. I don’t ever remember thinking the early 2000s was a time of great fashion history. *Insert Disney stars on the red carpet.* You know, the long tank layered under another tank and then ANOTHER tank, with a sequin miniskirt layered over bootcut jeans. Are you with me? 

BUT. I’m here to admit I was wrong. The more I dived into these trends, the more I was falling head over heels and totally convinced I needed to revamp my wardrobe. Specifically, I needed to get a pair of cargo pants ASAP. I’m so not a shorts girl, I’m getting bored of my denim, and I prioritize comfort over everything else.

So, cargo pants? Seems like the perfect match.

Y2K Cargo Pants Are Back: 5 Ways To Style Them In 2023

On my hunt for the perfect cargo pants, I found these utility pants from Free People and decided to see how I would style them before taking the plunge and treating myself with a pair. I ended up with five different ways I could wear them. Turns out, cargos are super-versatile and can be dressed up or down.

My only note when figuring out how to style them: I would steer toward longer-length jackets/sweaters or go for something cropped that hits the top of the pants. The baggy fit of the pants made in-between lengths look a little awkward.

Outfit Idea 1: Textured Knit + ’70s Vibes

I was given a thick maxi cardigan for Christmas, and it’s quickly become one of my fave pieces in my wardrobe. I’m not typically a cardigan person (oh, hey, Shana!), but maxi cardigans + cargo pants…I’m here for. This duster from Anthro is calling my name — I think the lightweight material/knitting would still work in spring and summer.

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As for that bodysuit…Abercrombie carries some of my faves. The materials are nice and stretchy. Pairing these pieces with rusty brown shades and yellow-lens glasses gave me alll the nostalgic ‘70s vibes (and complements the green cargo pants perfectly). 

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Outfit Idea 2: A Graphic Tee + Leather

THIS is me in an outfit. Black accents, something leather and a graphic tee. I didn’t want the cargo pants to read too “military,” so I opted for some leather ballet flats instead of my usual chunky black boots.

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If you’re looking for a more casual vibe, those New Balance sneakers are my favorite sneakers EVER. Amy’s been loving them too. They’re the most versatile sneakers I own, and they’re sooo comfortable. I’ve walked all over the city in them with zero breaking-in needed. Plus, I’m always here for the retro vibes.

If you’ve been on the hunt for a good graphic tee, first check out Laura’s post and then head to Abercrombie. I’m delightfully surprised by its selection of cool, vintage-looking tees. That paired with a leather blazer (a trend I think I’ll never get sick of) and the oversized leather boho bag (another big trend for this year) dresses it up just a bit.

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Outfit Idea 3: Soft Warm Tones

One thing I learned years ago: Olive green always looks good with cream and gold. I don’t know what it is, but it never fails to look chic. My favorite way to do this is with a cozy, slightly cropped cream sweater, a simple gold chain and small hoop earrings…and shoes to match.

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If Birkenstock sandals aren’t appropriate for your casual Fridays, try out a wedge. They’re usually way comfier than heels.

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Outfit Idea 4: Hints of Pink

So. I really wanted to include a tube top because I keep seeing them styled with cargo pants, and I CANNOT get this image out of my head. It just looks SO GOOD. But I’m not always one for a tight top especially if I’m relying on this tube top to keep the girls in place — the tight ones tend to slip easily. When I saw this loose-fitting one from Reformation, I knew I had to style it up with these cargos.

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Complete the look with some dainty jewelry and a fun floral bomber jacket. Keep it casual with the high-top Converse or dress it up with some heels.

P.S. Check out the hint of pink in that bomber and on the Converse. That’s definitely my way of wearing pink.

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Outfit Idea 5: Pearls, Feathers + Pinstripes

This oxymoron of pearls + silk + utilitarian-style pants is a combo I didn’t realize I needed in my wardrobe. Cute, but not too precious.

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OK, hear me out: Pinstripe blazers can totally look cool and not just like you’re on the way to a business meeting. Especially with that crop? I HAD to style it up. Pair it with a silky cami and some slingback pumps (or sneakers for comfort), and it’s the perfect date-night fit. Kiiinda love the idea of not-so-fancy checkered Vans sneakers with a pinstripe blazer and silk cami. Oh, and by the way, I’ve had my eyes on that cami FOREVER.

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What other trends do you guys want to see styled up?

-Danielle

Oh, hey, Pinners…