How Celebs Are Wearing Cargo and Camo Pants
If you're reading this, you're either a) the proud owner of at least one pair of cargos or b) officially cargo-curious. Either way, there’s no denying this trending utilitarian staple has been having a significant moment lately. Nowhere has this been more apparent than amongst celebrities, who’ve embraced the cargo and camo look wholeheartedly. (Think everyone from Bella Hadid and Kim Kardashian to Kendall Jenner and Rihanna.)
Why cargos are trending
Love for camo pants, including cargos, was a natural outgrowth of fashion’s yen for everything Y2K. While many celebs currently rocking them were just kids when the trend first took hold, they’ve typically managed to avoid over-nostalgizing cargos by adding their 2022 spins, teaming them with cocoon coats, chunky sneakers, and corset tops.
Most cargo and camo pants spotted on the runways and IRL are wide-leg, low-slung, and overly baggy. However, there's still a place for figure-hugging or straight-leg styles. While looser fits are the norm, cargos come in various cuts, so go with what makes you happiest. Ditto colors and materials mean wearing cargos in almost any setting, including the office and date nights.
How to style cargos and camo
Most celebs abide by the cargos-and-sneakers by day, cargos-and-heels by night rule, similar to how they might style jeans. While it’s not a hard-and-fast rule, it’s still the easiest way to dress your cargos up or down. Other ways to consider? Opt for satin or leather pants or an embellished pair for dressier occasions. When the vibe is distinctly casual, focus on the silhouette: opt for fitted tanks and tees to offset any looseness and top with something cropped.
We've highlighted some of the season's best if you're looking for new cargo and camo styles. Here’s what we recommend and how to wear them.
The Reissue Cargo Pant
Want to tap into the Y2K trend in the most authentic way possible? Score an iconic look from the late ‘90s, newly re-released with the Reissue Cargo Pant. Available in traditional olive green as well as a modern, creamy bright white, these cargos radiate effortless chic. Mid-rise with a relaxed fit, the pants feature practical details like a fastener at the hips and come in a soft, micro-sanded baby twill fabric. Roomy, functional cargo pockets make these bottoms valuable and stylish. We love to see these pants paired with sneakers, lug-sole boots, and even strappy sandals. Top them off with a form-fitting turtleneck or slim-cut sweater.
The Cali Cargo Pant
As soon as cargos reappeared, consumers quickly noted that many dialed up a notch, boasting eye-catching and genuinely valuable details—case in point: the Cali Cargo Pant, whose name nods to its laidback roots. These mid-rise bottoms come in three can't-miss neutrals ideal for every day, and consist of a lightweight micro twill. They also feature pockets at the sides, front, and back, plus optional fasteners at the hems, allowing for an instantly cropped silhouette. Finally, add a pair of loafers, sneakers, ballet flats, and a casual sweater for effortless style.
The Rebel Pant
Need help deciding between cargo and camo styles? You’re lucky because the Rebel Pant in Hiker Camo offers the best of both worlds. These pants are a true classic, featuring a classic camo pattern in monochromatic shades of olive green. Not too baggy but not meant to cling to curves, the Rebel offers a more feminine, elevated take on Army-issue dungarees. Mid-rise with an elasticized ankle band comes with side cargo and flap pockets, hidden back snaps, and a double button and zip closure. Keep it casual by teaming them with white kicks and a black tank. Or, add a silk button-up blouse and leather loafers for added polish.
Modern Wide Leg Cargo Pants
Are you looking to channel your inner street-style star while staying comfy? Then be sure and snag a pair of Modern Wide Leg Cargo Pants. This fluid, of-the-moment silhouette elongates the body and looks timelessly cool in a true matte black. An elasticized waist with button closure ups the easy-feeling factor, and side cargo pockets add utility. But these bottoms are not strictly casual. Fashioned from an ultra-soft rayon blend, they look sleek and could pass muster for parties and date nights teamed with heels, bold jewelry, and a crisp white button-up or cashmere sweater.