Cargo Pockets Have Officially Made a Comeback, and Wowee, They're Chicer Than Ever

Cargo pockets may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of an uberchic item of clothing, but to say that the utilitarian accent is ubiquitous for Spring [1] would be an understatement. At every turn (i.e. brands or stores you regularly shop), count on discovering pants, shirts, dresses, jumpsuits, and skirts with the pragmatic detail, though with a twist, because what is fashion if not an industry known for turning pragmatic pieces on their head and making them irresistible to fashion girls like you and me?

I, for one, am absolutely here for this trend not only because I appreciate a sensible article of clothing, but because cargos have transformed for 2020 with a decidedly fresh feel that melds perfectly with the basics [2], minimalist clothing [3], and neutral colors [4] in my closet. Think tailored-but-oversize shirts, cinched jumpsuits, compartment-happy skirts, and, of course, pants that range from roomy to fitted.

Originating out of function, cargos pockets were designed to increase capacity in pants [5] intended for battle or hunting, often with a snap, button, or Velcro closure. While these are two activities I don't exactly partake in — though dodging cabs, cyclists, and tourists in the NYC streets counts for something, right? — I'm often seeking out items with a bit of gruffness to them to offset the more feminine pieces in my closet. It's all about balance, friends. Now, don't misinterpret my use of the word "gruffness" to assume an item of clothing with cargo pockets is unsavory to the eye. In my opinion, the utilitarian detail is quite captivating, particularly so on a tailored trouser, smart skirt, waist-cinching jacket, or ankle-grazing dress. These pockets create contrast when styled with frillier pieces [6] and ultrasleek accessories, and we all know that outfits with this sort of dynamic tend to be the most stylish ones. So, you're convinced, yes?

Ahead, witness the cargo pocket trend in action via some of my favorite fashion-influencer outfits that I saved to my styling inspiration folder on Instagram [7]. If you find yourself as engrossed in the trend as I am, shop my edit of cargo-pocketed pieces from pants to tops and skirts. To ensure there's an iteration for everyone, I've included under-$50 options all the way to designer styles.

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

Put a playful spin on tailored cargo pants with a bright sweater. For a sleek finish, add in tall boots and a structured bag.

Mango Cotton Cargo Pants

Mango Cotton Cargo Pants [9] ($40, originally $80)

Only High Waisted Cargo Pants

Only High Waisted Cargo Pants [10] ($64)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

A multi-pocketed skirt looks cool with a cropped bomber jacket or sweatshirt half-tucked in.

Zara Pocket Paperbag Pocket Skirt

Zara Pocket Paperbag Pocket Skirt [11] ($40)

Banana Republic Utility Wrap Skirt

Banana Republic Utility Wrap Skirt [12] ($39, originally $80)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

For a sportier look, nylon cargo pants are the ticket with a puffer coat, colorful sunglasses, and a hefty boot.

Urban Outfitters Mila Utility Jogger Pant

Urban Outfitters Mila Utility Jogger Pant [13] ($89)

Bershka Belted Cargo Pants

Bershka Belted Cargo Pants [14] ($40)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

It's not just about the cargo pant. A utilitarian jacket with a cinched waist is a universally flattering look with just about anything from jeans to trousers and dresses to skirts.

4th and Reckless Kennedy Utility Jacket Cream

4th and Reckless Kennedy Utility Jacket Cream [15] ($73)

POPSUGAR Cropped Utility Jacket

POPSUGAR Cropped Utility Jacket [16] ($32, originally $64)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

Play with proportion and try styling a cropped sweater over a bodysuit with cargo pants. Combat boots are a cool finish.

Asos Design Curve Cargo Pants

Asos Design Curve Cargo Pants [17] ($51)

Alexanderwang.t Cargo Pants

Alexanderwang.t Cargo Pants [18] ($350)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

A tailored jumpsuit with cargo pockets is a so-chic way of rocking this trend. Simple accessories like a thin sandal, crossbody bag, and sunglasses further elevate the look.

Frankie Shop Linda Cargo Jumpsuit

Frankie Shop Linda Cargo Jumpsuit [19] ($198, originally $396)

& Other Stories Belted Cotton Utility Jumpsuit

& Other Stories Belted Cotton Utility Jumpsuit [20] ($129)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

A tonal outfit is an easy way to streamline a bolder silhouette like paperbag-waist pants with cargo pockets. Here, I tucked in a thin turtleneck [21] and layered on an oversized coat. For contrast, I finished with a black bag and printed boots.

Pixie Market Beige Belted Cargo Pants

Pixie Market Beige Belted Cargo Pants [22] ($114)

Jason Wu Cropped Cotton-Twill Wide-Leg Pants

Jason Wu Cropped Cotton-Twill Wide-Leg Pants [23] ($385)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

Cargo pockets instantly make a pair of tailored pants cooler. The same goes for cargos in luxe fabrics like leather.

Prologue Mid-Rise Cargo Pants

Prologue Mid-Rise Cargo Pants [24] ($30)

G-Star Raw Army High Wide Leg Pant

G-Star Raw Army High Wide Leg Pant [25] ($119, originally $170)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

Sweatpants are no exception when it comes to the cargo trend whether you wear a coordinating sweat suit or mix in more structured pieces like a blazer. Lug-sole boots guarantee a high-impact finish but if that feels too bold, sneakers are equally fresh.

David Lerner Cargo Joggers

David Lerner Cargo Joggers [26] ($92, originally $132)

Tna Workwear Cargo pants

Tna Workwear Cargo pants [27] ($118)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

For a feminine take on this utilitarian trend, a mini skirt with many pockets is achingly chic. A fitted top is best to balance proportion as is a sleek boot that easily tucks under your hemline.

Natasha Zinko Cargo-Pocket Wool Midi Pencil Skirt

Natasha Zinko Cargo-Pocket Wool Midi Pencil Skirt [28] ($441)

Prada Statement Pocket Nylon Cargo Skirt

Prada Statement Pocket Nylon Cargo Skirt [29] ($1,390)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

An oversized utility shirt is the perfect on-trend pieces to try in place of a basic button-down whether you style yours on its own or layer over a fitted turtleneck [30]. Hot tip: you can also style a minidress with cargo pockets over jeans, especially if it's a button-down style that can be worn open as a jacket.

Wilfred Free Ganna Structured Wool Utility Jacket

Wilfred Free Ganna Structured Wool Utility Jacket [31] ($198)

Frame Leather Cargo Dress

Frame Leather Cargo Dress [32] ($950)

How to Wear the Cargo Trend

Put a cozy spin on cargo pants by tucking in a simple sweater and layering a second one over your shoulders in lieu of a scarf. The trendy boot tuck [33] is a fresh finish.