Like the flavour of olives or the taste of red wine, some things have to grow on you—that’s the case for me with this particular trend. Between the influx of outfits on Instagram and the taking over of various new-in sections, cargo trousers are impossible to ignore this year. Often labelled as “ugly” or, if you were to ask me four months ago, “too ’90s for its own good,” it’s a look I never thought would win me over. Then I saw the Celine spring/summer runway show, where a pair of cargo trousers—camouflage ones at that!—changed my entire outlook on them.
Celine’s glossy interpretation—which consisted of cropped leather jacket and heeled sandals—helped transform them into something I’d actually wear again, as opposed to something I’d only previously have considered wearing if I was dressing up as a Spice Girl. And it would appear I’m not the only one who has had a change of heart recently; Celine’s influence has started a cargo trouser ripple effect in the industry, with demand for them spiking. Recently, Lyst revealed its trend precautions for the new season, and cargo trousers were an integral part of the forecast. “Another sub-trend from the outdoor aesthetic, the cargo trouser, has gained popularity in the market, predominantly favouring traditional colours like olives and greens.”
High-low styling is key to achieving the 2023 style aesthetic, with shoppers predicted to buy into pieces that can be dressed up or down. Did someone say cargo trousers? With the simple switch of a trainer for a high heel or stacked boot, the entire mood becomes something undeniably chic. Easy to re-create, it’s little wonder that influencers have already been wearing the cargo trousers this season, so if you’re on the fence, you can rest assured that it’s worthy of a test run. Scroll on to see six chic examples of how to wear cargo trousers that feel fresh and new for autumn, and then shop the pieces you need to tap into the cargo trouser trend.
Style Notes: After the Celine inspiration, I had to take note of this classic army print pair. Marilyn styles her pair with a cropped jacket and strappy heels to elevate for spring.
You’ll layer this cropped bomber over every look.
Currently at the top of my wish list.
Simply perfection.
Style Notes: One of the easiest ways to wear your cargo trousers is with ankle boots and a simple tee. Throw in a varsity jacket and make no mistake, this look is 100% chic.
The square toe updates the look from 90’s cool, to 2023 chic.
Style Notes: Often, simple is best, and the fail-safe combination of jeans (cargo, of course) with a leather jacket and trainers will never let you down. This is the ideal look for those running errands or chilled brunch days. And I for one will be adding this to my ‘outfits to copy’ saved folder.
Style Notes: There’s something so fun about elevating (quite literally) a casual look with a pair of heels. Kitten heels and cargo pants may sound strange on paper, but Tanice illustrates how to execute the high/low pairing to perfection.
You can’t beat a great-quality sweater.
Tighten the drawstrings at the bottom to show off your heels.
Tanice’s actual heels.
Style Notes: Marianne Smyth has inspired many of the items in my wardrobe, with her cargo trouser look proving just as influential. She styles hers in the precise way I’d like to—with an oversized jumper and sleek black ankle boots.
COS always does great cashmere knits.
The army green is so classic.
These much-loved Toteme boots truly go with everything.
Style Notes: Monikh was one of the first to champion the cargo trouser trend and has plenty of looks to re-create over on her feed. My favourite? The one where she wears them with a ‘nice top’ and chunky sandals. You’ll definitely be able to recreate this look on warmer days throughout autumn.
Try out the sheer trend.
Monikh’s trousers are also Acne Studios.
They’re an invest well worth making.
Love the chain detail on this Loewe bag.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
