Cargo Pants Are a Fashion Lover’s Most Practical Essential—Here’s 10 Things to Wear With Them

The Gist

• Summer calls for outfits that are practical yet chic, which is why cargo pants are a versatile must-have.

• With utilitarian origins, cargo pants, with their signature large pockets, were designed to hold a plethora of essentials while also withstanding a multitude of environments.

• Ahead are 10 must-have pieces to wear with cargo pants this summer.

Just because we’re in the middle of the summer months doesn’t mean that we’re all on vacation. Duty still calls, which means that getting dressed up for all that summer has in store can be quite a chore. Thankfully, that’s where a pair of cargo pants comes in to save the day.

With utilitarian origins, cargo pants, featuring their signature large pockets and sturdy make, were designed to hold all your essentials while also withstanding a multitude of environments. However, over time, cargos have evolved from a workwear staple to a chic must-have for those looking to command attention. Given their versatility, choosing what to pair with your cargo pants doesn’t require military precision, but in case you need some sartorial inspo, we’ve got you covered.

Ahead are 10 must-have pieces to wear with cargo pants this summer.

With a Monochromatic Moment

Cargo pants are already a stylish statement, but if you want to play into their uniform roots, then go for a monochromatic moment. Pairing your pants with a coordinating cargo jacket creates a super chic, head-to-toe color scheme.

With a Chic Corset

Wearing extra baggy cargo pants is the go-to for many fashion lovers, but to avoid looking like you’re drowning in them, you can’t go wrong with a cinched corset top. By choosing a more form-fitting piece, such as a lingerie-inspired corset, you’ll create a balanced look that’s pulled together without appearing as though you’ve tried too hard.

With a Dramatically Draped Top

Another way to balance out the relaxed fit of a cargo pant is a dramatically draped top. The movement up top will lend a romantic, feminine touch that will offset the more masculine cut of the cargos.

With a Shrunken Cardigan

Another way to add a playful spin to dressing up your cargo pants is to opt for a shrunken cardigan. Both a cropped cardigan and low-hanging cargo pants will hit at a sweet spot, giving you an elongated, dare I say, elegant look.

With a Business-Ready Blazer

Just because cargo pants are a tried-and-true weekend staple doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate them into your office outfits. Throwing on a tailored blazer and some elevated accessories will give the cargo pants a more polished look—and clear any corporate dress code.

With a (Unbuttoned) Button Down

Another business-approved cargo companion is a crisp, collared button-down shirt. However, it can’t be all work and no play. Dress it up for work, and when you’re off-duty, enjoy the summer breeze by undoing a button or two.

With a Bold Bra Top

If you want to go sultry with your cargo pants, try on a bold bra top for size. Perfect for the club or beach, a bra top will serve as a cool base for covered-up cargo pants, creating a look that strikes just the right amount of sexiness.

With Towering Boots

Most of the cargo pant outfits I see out in the wild feature pooling hems that obscure the wearer’s shoes beyond recognition. To avoid this, I recommend some sky-high platform boots that will not only stand out from your cargo’s hem but can also create a billowy look if tucked into them.

With Ladylike Heels

If you want your shoes to play more of a supporting role, then a pair of pointy-toed heels will do the trick. These ladylike shoes will add just the right amount of glamour to the casualness of cargos.

With Matching Accessories

Cargo pants are perfect for carefree dressing. Eliminate guesswork by choosing accessories that are in the same shade of color. By matching your add-ons, you’ll let your cargo pants command all of the attention while still having different points of visual interest.

Read the original article on InStyle