It's Official: The Cargo-Skirt Trend Is Back in a Big Way

last updated 30 May 2023

One of the exciting parts of my job is watching moving trends. Sometimes they are revivals of eras past, other times they're so chic we can't understand how we previously lived without them (I'm looking at you, tailoring outside of the office). Right now, I've been patiently watching the biggest trouser trend of the season, cargo trousers, grow and develop into the much-adored cargo skirt trend. And it's everything I hoped for and more.

Let me take you back for a minute, way back to the early '00s. You've just fed your Tamagotchi, Destiny's Child is playing on your HitClip (IYKYK) and you've pulled on your favourite cargo skirt. If you were anything like my best friend and me, you wore matching styles in different colours, which featured long tassels to add a touch of drama to each step. Fast forward to 2023, and the cargo trouser return was upon us, but with a much cooler edge. We watched as the classic cargo melded and transformed from typical design, to hybrid versions that embraced tailoring details, and eventually, the cargo skirt came to the fore, and now has declared itself the skirt of the summer.

Mini, midi, maxi, denim—the cargo skirt has returned in various compositions to allow all to embrace it, no matter your personal style. What adds to the appeal, alongside the nostalgia, is the ease of styling. It takes very little to make the cargo skirt feel fresh, with a simple tank top being a favourite amongst many of our fashion friends. Also, there's no need to fret about what footwear goes best, with cargo skirts pairing seamlessly with everything from flip-flops to mules to boots and loafers. Truly, it's a wear-everywhere style. To prove just how versatile the cargo skirt is, and how to wear it for summer, you'll find some of our fashion friends sporting theirs below, plus a selection of our favourite cargo skirts to invest in now.

The parachute fabric is iconic of cargo styles.

Take on two trends at once with this maxi length cargo skirt.

Jeannine's exact skirt is listed below. Plus, it's from Zara.

Our Deputy Editor Maxine has already bought into the trend.

It's not just neutrals that are on the rise, green hues are a big deal too.

For now, pair with a simple vest and sandals. Come autumn, you'll be wearing it with a cosy knit and boots.

SHOP CARGO SKIRTS

Nobody's Child

Khaki Green Utility Cargo Midi Skirt

Zara

Denim Cargo Skirt

& Other Stories

Midi Back Slit Cargo Skirt

ASOS Design

Denim Cargo Midi Skirt

H&M

Parachute Cotton Skirt

Warehouse + Denim Cargo Midi Skirt

Warehouse

Denim Cargo Midi Skirt

Reformation

Maggi Cargo Midi Skirt

Armarium

Clio Cargo Denim Mini Skirt

Levi's

Convertible Cargo Skirt

Reformation

Indy Skirt

Zara

Linen Blend Cargo Midi Skirt

Citizens of Humanity

Anouk Denim Midi Skirt

Mango

Pencil Skirt With Pockets

& Other Stories

Cargo Mini Skirt

Mango

Cargo Miniskirt

ASOS Design

Side Ruched Cargo Skirt

Arket

Cargo Mini Skirt

House of Sunny

Low Rider Denim Skirt

Free People

What You Waiting For Maxi Skirt

Zara

Cargo Skort

Weekday

Edge Cargo Skirt

Pilcro

Denim Cargo Mini Skirt

Up next, I Thought I Had No Clothes, But I Own Everything I Need for These 9 Summer Looks

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Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.