Tog’s guide to cargo trousers (& shorts!)
Taking the pockets and practicality from military wear, style out of the early 2000s and comfort you would expect from an every-day trouser, cargos carry (sorry) every outfit.
As the essential trousers for casual wear, you can take these out for dog walks on sunny days - easily transitioning into the evening by swapping the hiking boots for trainers or loafers. In this guide, we’ll talk you through the fundamentals of cargo trousers and shorts, including what they are, what to wear with cargo trousers and how to style them. Ready? Let’s go!
(Ready to get your cargo fix, right here, right now? Shop our range of cargo trousers here!)
What are cargo trousers?
‘Cargos’ typically feature large, utility pockets and a loose fit, made from natural materials like cotton and canvas so they feel soft on the skin and last for years. Coming in low, mid and high rise, you can choose a pair that works for you. Their relaxed, lightweight design makes them a spring/summer wardrobe essential.
Built for outdoor adventures and every day comfort
Being an outdoorsy brand, we love the utility pockets that can house items like keys, phones and more - doesn’t everyone love to leave the bag behind? Maybe that’s just us being lazy, but there’s no denying that their functionality is second to none.
The cargo trousers’ versatility means you can dress them up or down and breathable materials make these something you can be comfortable in all day long. Also, cargo trousers also come in rather handy cargo shorts form - ideal for sunny days spent fishing or pitching your tent on the campsite! Check out the credo men’s cargo shorts for a prime example of this.
How to style cargo trousers
Over the years, cargo trousers have been styled to meet current fashion trends. We saw a rise of baggy cargos a few years ago with the ‘y2k’ movement, when just a few years before then, slim fitted cargos were preferred.
“What do you wear with cargo trousers then?”
At TOG, we like to keep things simple. Our trousers are built to last, both literally and in terms of fashion. We focus on keeping them a timeless, comfortable piece that you can pair with different items year on year.
So ‘cargo’ your thought, as below we’ve compiled a guide for transitional styling!
Keep to cargo trousers’ utilitarian core
As cargos were invented for the military, going for this theme always works. You can pair with a white tank top and walking boots, swapping them out for trainers in the evening. When thinking of the military style, green or khaki comes to mind and this is a great colour choice, especially if you’re outdoorsy.
Balancing proportions of cargo trousers and what to wear with cargo trousers
As discussed previously, the shape of cargos can change, but whatever fit you buy, it’s important to even out the proportions. If you’re wearing looser cargos, opt for a fitted top and vice versa if the cargos are a slimmer fit.
To wear your cargos across all seasons, try layering to keep warm. To go for a ‘y2k’ theme, you could put a long-sleeved t-shirt underneath a short-sleeved t-shirt, making sure the colours contrast. You could also wear a jumper, layering with a bomber jacket for a utilitarian-chic look. On days where comfort is needed, hoodies work well, which look great during Autumn months.
Different ways to wear cargo trousers
Rolling up the cuffs can showcase your footwear, particularly if you’re wearing nice trainers and can keep you a little cooler in hot weather. Tucking your shirt in can provide a cleaner, more polished look, especially when working with monochrome colours!
How to accessorise cargo trousers
Crossbody bags and hip packs always pair well with the ‘cargo’ and are great for the avid explorer - even more pockets for snacks! A cap in summer keeps your eyes in the shade, whilst a beanie during winter can keep the heat in - staying in style at the same time.
Which shoes pair best with cargo
How to style cargo trousers with shoes? Whether you're walking the trails, camping in the wild, or simply wandering the urban jungle, here are some of our favourite shoes you can pair them with:
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Trainers
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Hiking shoes
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Boots
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Sandals
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Loafers and ballet pumps
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Heels
Take our Keney womens trousers for example, these trousers are so versatile and go with pretty much any pair of shoes going!
What colour cargo to go for
Black cargos - A solid choice, black looks good with almost anything. You could style tonally with different shades of grey and white, or go all black if you’re feeling stealthy (or can’t decide on colour pairings)!
Grey cargos - A great option that goes well with white shirts and works particularly well when dressing up in the evening with some heels.
Navy - Wear with a blazer, if you can ‘get away’ with dressing smart-casual (leaning on casual) for work.
Green cargos - Great for laid-back occasions or outdoor activities, you could style with a white tee, or cropped bomber jacket for a utilitarian feel.
Beige cargos - Great paired with a comfy hoodie or bright knitted jumpers.
You can’t beat the cargo, so go get some!
What are cargo trousers? Tough, practical, and always in style, a wardrobe essential you’ll reach for again and again. Dress them up, dress them down, load up those pockets, and head out in comfort.
At TOG24, we make cargos built to last, so you can wear them year after year. Find your perfect pair of women’s or men’s cargo trousers or shorts today.
