The recent rise in popularity of cargo pants came as a surprise to most fashion editors. Championed by celebrities who made a very compelling case for the style—including Rihanna, Emily Ratajkowski and Bella Hadid—we started to perceive this trouser style as less clueless dad and more cool girl. A few years in and the ergonomic trousers have entirely shaken off their former reputation, attracting a swarm of cargo-converts to the check-out button.
However, the abundance of pockets and casual, draped shape does make styling them a bit difficult. To help, we've tried wearing cargos with just about every type of shoe you can imagine, and I've whittled it down the styles that work the best.
From sleek kitten-heels to the perfect trainers, we've done the hard work so that you can style your cargo trousers with ease. Read on to discover which shoes we love to wear with cargo trousers.
1. KITTEN HEELS
Style Notes: Nothing will elevate the look of your cargo trousers quite like a chic kitten heel. The mini heel packs a punch, delivering a sleek and stylish finish whilst juxtaposing the utilitarian nature of the trousers.
Shop the Look:
The perfect relaxed pair.
I'm all in for the mesh-shoe trend.
The adjustable ankle cords allow you to tailor the fit to your liking.
If you ask anyone in the Who What Wear UK office what their favourite slingback shoes are, they'll point you towards these.
Nili Lotan is our go-to for premium cargo trousers.
This versatile pair is easy to style with just about anything.
2. RETRO TRAINERS
Style Notes: It could be argued that cargo trousers look best with equally ergonomic accessories, such as retro trainers. To lean all the way in, consider styling with a crossbody bag and bomber jacket.
Shop the Look:
This lightweight fabric gives a super-casual vibe.
Hoff trainers have been catching my eye recently.
All the pockets you could need.
Retro done right.
These COS cargo trousers toe the line between tailored and cargo, and for that reason, I adore them.
Autry trainers are creeping up my wish list by the day.
3. SLEEK FLIP-FLOPS
Style Notes: For a breezy, casual outfit, look no further than cargos with flip-flops. This playful combination is so easy to fall back on during warmer weather. If you want to hone a more polished look, consider tracking down thong flip-flops with a small heel, but if you'd prefer to keep your feet on the ground, a flat pair in smooth leather works just as well. To complete the ensemble, opt for cargo trousers in a light fabric such as cotton or linen for a harmonious pairing.
Shop the Look:
The more pockets, the better.
Easy and chic.
The wide leg is easy to style with both boots and sandals.
I love this chunkier take on flip-flops.
Adjust the drawstrings to suit your preference.
These look so comfortable.
Next Up: The Trouser Trend Fashion People Are Suddenly Wearing Instead of Jeans
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
4 Dated Sweater Trends I'm Purging From My Small NYC Closet by the Year's EndAnd the chic knitwear I'm making room for.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-UpSophisticated styling 101.
-
8 Copenhagen Street Style Trends I Plan to Replicate in New YorkPared back yet never boring.
