As the days lengthen, we all long for the freedom of shedding our layers and slipping into skirts and dresses. Alas, the weather, at least on the East Coast, isn't quite ready to cooperate. The silver lining is that if you're tired of classic jeans, there's a polished and even more comfortable alternative that fashion insiders are turning to: cargo pants. Don’t believe me? Just take a look at Dakota Johnson’s latest street style moment.
While leaving a nail salon in Malibu, Johnson was spotted wearing a cropped white T-shirt from The Row, the celeb-favorite Birkenstock Arizona sandals, and black cargo pants. In case you were wondering, they're a style that was originally designed for the practical needs of soldiers in the 1930s. But these utilitarian trousers have since made their way to the forefront of fashion, evolving into a stylish and versatile must-have. Whether paired with a blazer, blouse, or casual tee and styled with anything from boots to heels, cargo pants are as adaptable as they come—making them a staple for trendsetters everywhere.
On Dakota Johnson: The Row shirt; Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Sandals ($170)
So, if you’re seeking an effortlessly chic yet functional alternative to jeans or leggings, look no further than cargo pants. Keep scrolling for a curated selection of standout styles to incorporate into your wardrobe this season and beyond.
Shop the best cargo pants:
Johnson's pants are likely designer, but you can also achieve the look for less with this pair that's under $60.
These look just like Johnson's.
I'd get this colorway for summer.
These also come in taupe.
You can't go wrong with a classic pair of cargo pants.
So chic.
Free People does cargo pants so well.
Superdown tends to run large, so size down.
An editor favorite.
Wear these to the office with pointed-toe slingbacks and a sweater.
We're not done with chocolate brown just yet.
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It's Happening, People: These It Loafers From 1953 Are Back From the DeadReady or not.
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Black Sandals Are Nice and All, But in NYC, Everyone Knows This Shoe Color Looks Chicer With White PantsThe unexpected choice is always a winner in this particular city.
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Don't Wear Leggings to the Airport Without Seeing Lindsay Lohan's Much Chicer AlternativeYes, it's still comfy!
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Spotted in the Mediterranean: Kate Moss Wore the Skirt Trend It Girls Are About to Fall in Love WithI, for one, am obsessed.
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If Erewhon Had a Dress Code, Dakota Johnson's Latest Grocery-Run Look Would Be the BlueprintThe unspoken uniform of stylish shoppers.
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Bella Hadid Just Wore the $160 Designer-Passing White Sneakers That Will Sell Out by September 1Hurry, there are only a few sizes left.
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Hailey Bieber Wore Vintage Tom Ford Gucci Sandals With the Summer Pant Trend I See Sticking Around Through FallAny pants that look this good shouldn't be packed up just because the season changes.
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Kylie Jenner Just Declared This "Dated" Denim Trend Is Still In—But Only Styled *This* WayTake note.
