How To Style Cargo Pants For Men? (14 Different Ways)
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Cargo pants are a versatile staple that blends practicality with style, offering a rugged yet adaptable look for any wardrobe. Whether you’re going for a casual vibe with sneakers and a T-shirt or adding a bit of sophistication with loafers and a sweater, cargo pants can be styled to fit various occasions. So let’s check how to style cargo pants for men.
How To Style Cargo Pants For Men?
To wear cargo pants for men, pair them with casual pieces like T-shirts, hoodies, or overshirts for a relaxed and effortless style. Sneakers or boots are ideal footwear options that match the utilitarian vibe of cargo pants, while hiking boots offer a rugged, adventure-ready touch. For layering, go with a bomber jacket, leather jacket, or denim jacket to add style and structure.
Cargo Pants With A T-Shirt
Pairing cargo pants with a T-shirt creates a casual and laid-back look that’s perfect for everyday wear. A fitted or slightly loose T-shirt works best because it balances the relaxed structure of the cargo pants. A basic cotton tee in neutral tones or solid colors will always work, while graphic tees can add personality to the look.
This combination is perfect for casual outings, streetwear events, outdoor activities, or even weekend errands. Since both cargo pants and a T-shirt fall into the casual dress code, you can wear this outfit to the park, to casual hangouts, or when traveling.
When styling, stick to classic colors like olive or khaki cargo pants with white, black, or grey T-shirts for a timeless look. For a more adventurous style, try pairing camo cargo pants with a solid-colored tee to add a rugged military-inspired touch. You can also layer with a jacket, and complete the outfit with sneakers or boots for a functional yet stylish vibe.
Cargo Pants With A Polo Shirt
The structured collar and clean lines of the polo shirt bring an element of polish to the laid-back cargo pants. A slim or regular-fit polo works best to maintain balance; oversized polo shirts can create too much volume and make the outfit look unstructured. Avoid polo shirts with excessive branding or flashy patterns, as they can clash with the utilitarian style of the cargo pants.
This outfit is ideal for casual or smart-casual occasions, such as lunch dates, casual Fridays at work (only if your office has a very relaxed dress code), or outdoor gatherings where you want to look put-together without being overly formal.
Classic combinations include white or black polos with khaki or olive cargo pants. If you want to introduce patterns, opt for a subtle stripe on the polo while keeping the cargo pants in a solid color. Finish the look with loafers or sneakers, and consider adding a leather belt or a watch to elevate the outfit further.
Cargo Pants With A Shirt
A button-down shirt, whether in cotton or linen, adds a sophisticated touch to the functional design of cargo pants. For the best look, opt for a slim or tailored shirt to counterbalance the relaxed fit of the pants—baggy or oversized shirts can make the outfit look sloppy. A chambray or flannel shirt works well with cargo pants, but a more formal dress shirt might look out of place with such casual bottoms.
This combination can be worn for casual Fridays, outdoor events, or casual dining. While it’s not suitable for business professional or formal occasions, it’s perfect for situations where you want to look smart but not overdressed. It’s a great choice for date nights, weekend get-togethers, or even creative work environments that allow a more relaxed dress code.
In terms of colors and patterns, you can’t go wrong with neutral or earthy tones—think olive cargo pants with a light blue shirt or grey cargo pants with a white or beige button-down. Plaid shirts add a rugged, outdoorsy vibe, while plain shirts keep it more polished. Finish the look with casual shoes like loafers, sneakers, or even desert boots, and add a leather belt or watch to complete the outfit.
Cargo Pants With A Overshirt
Overshirts, often made from heavier fabrics like wool or denim, add warmth and structure to the laid-back cargo pants. This combination works well because both garments have a workwear-inspired aesthetic, but make sure to opt for a well-fitted overshirt to avoid looking too bulky. Oversized or ill-fitting overshirts can make the outfit look unbalanced, so slim to regular fit is ideal.
This pairing is perfect for casual occasions, outdoor activities, or laid-back weekend outings. The overshirt adds an extra layer of style, making it suitable for cooler months or evening events. You wouldn’t wear this outfit to formal or semi-formal occasions, but it’s great for outdoor concerts, barbecues, or casual work environments.
Stick to muted or earthy colors like olive, navy, or grey for a cohesive look. You can pair a khaki overshirt with dark cargo pants for a monochrome look or introduce a bit of contrast with a plaid or check overshirt over solid-colored cargo pants. Complete the look with sturdy boots or sneakers, and consider layering a basic tee or henley underneath the overshirt.
Cargo Pants With A Hoodie
Pairing cargo pants with a hoodie is the ultimate casual, laid-back combination that’s perfect for relaxed, everyday wear. Hoodies bring a cozy, sporty vibe, while the utility of cargo pants adds an edge to the outfit. A minimalist hoodie with minimal branding or embellishments pairs well with the ruggedness of cargo pants, while hoodies with large logos or graphics can feel too busy for the outfit.
This combination is ideal for casual hangouts, outdoor activities, or traveling. Since both cargo pants and hoodies fall under casual wear, you’ll be comfortable while still looking stylish during activities like hiking, camping, or just running errands.
For color coordination, neutral tones work best—try pairing grey or black hoodies with olive or khaki cargo pants. If you’re looking for contrast, consider a dark hoodie with light-colored cargo pants. Complete the outfit with sneakers or hiking boots for a functional yet stylish look, and add a beanie or a cap for a touch of streetwear-inspired style.
Cargo Pants With A Sweater
The relaxed fit of cargo pants pairs well with a chunky knit for a more casual look or a fitted crewneck sweater for a smart one, creating a balanced and warm look. Choose sweaters in wool, cashmere, or cotton blends for extra warmth.
This outfit is ideal for casual settings, such as outdoor gatherings, weekend getaways, or even casual Fridays at the office, depending on the workplace’s dress code. While it’s too informal for professional settings, it’s perfect for day-to-day errands, coffee dates, or cozy winter walks. The sweater adds a layer of sophistication that elevates the casual cargo pants for slightly dressier occasions.
In terms of color, neutral sweaters in shades of beige, grey, or navy pair well with earth-toned cargo pants. For a bolder look, consider wearing a sweater in a rich autumn color like burgundy or mustard with olive or khaki cargo pants. You can finish the outfit with boots for a rugged, outdoor-inspired look, or opt for casual sneakers for a more laid-back vibe.
Cargo Pants With A Roll-Neck
The structured, high-neck design of a roll-neck sweater adds an elegant contrast to the relaxed, utilitarian cargo pants. It’s best to choose a slim-fit roll-neck sweater in a smooth fabric like merino wool or cotton, which balances the loose fit of the cargo pants.
This combination is ideal for semi-casual events or occasions where you want to look polished but not overly formal. You could wear this look to a casual office, dinner out with friends, or on a date where you want to make a stylish impression without being too dressy.
For color coordination, earthy tones like olive or beige cargo pants pair well with neutral roll-neck sweaters in shades of grey, black, or cream. If you want to introduce patterns, keep it subtle—stick with solid colors or minimalist patterns for the sweater and let the cargo pants stand out. Complete the look with leather boots or loafers, and consider layering with a sleek jacket to add a stylish layer to the outfit.
Cargo Pants With A Bomber Jacket
Bomber jackets, with their cropped design and fitted cuffs, complement the loose, structured look of cargo pants. This combination works particularly well because both garments have a rugged, utilitarian feel, yet the bomber jacket adds a sleek, stylish edge. Avoid heavily padded bombers, as they can create too much bulk alongside the relaxed cargo pants.
This look is perfect for casual and semi-casual settings, such as outdoor events, city strolls, or relaxed social gatherings. It works well for situations where you want to look put together but not overdressed.
Stick to earthy tones or classic colors like olive or khaki for the cargo pants and pair them with neutral bomber jackets in black, navy, or olive green. Complete the look with sneakers or boots, and accessorize with a minimalist watch or aviator sunglasses to play into the military-inspired style.
Cargo Pants With A Leather Jacket
The tough, structured nature of a leather jacket contrasts well with the relaxed fit and functionality of cargo pants. For this combination, a classic black or brown leather jacket in a sleek cut works best. A motorcycle or biker-style leather jacket adds a bold, rebellious vibe, while cargo pants balance it out with their utilitarian design. Avoid overly shiny or polished leather jackets, as they might clash with the rugged look of cargo pants.
This outfit is ideal for casual outings, nights out, or any event where you want to make a bold style statement. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, concerts, or outdoor activities, but it wouldn’t fit in a business casual or formal setting.
Stick to neutral tones like black cargo pants which pair effortlessly with a black leather jacket, while olive or khaki pants can add some contrast without overpowering the look. Wear a white or grey T-shirt underneath the jacket, and finish the look with boots for a rugged, cohesive feel.
Cargo Pants With A Denim Jacket
A denim jacket paired with cargo pants offers a casual yet stylish blend of rugged and laid-back aesthetics. Denim jackets provide a sharp contrast to the structured and utility-focused design of cargo pants. The combination works best with a well-fitted denim jacket, while oversized styles can make the outfit appear too bulky.
This combination is perfect for casual day-to-day wear, weekend outings, or outdoor adventures. It’s versatile enough for various settings, such as coffee dates, casual lunches, or low-key social events.
For a balanced color scheme, stick to classic blue or light-wash denim jackets with khaki, olive, or grey cargo pants. If you want to introduce patterns, a striped T-shirt or plaid flannel under the jacket adds some visual interest without clashing with the rugged elements of the look. Complete the outfit with sneakers or boots for an outdoor-ready vibe, and consider wearing a cap.
Cargo Pants With Sneakers
Cargo pants and sneakers are a match made in casual, streetwear heaven. The relaxed, utilitarian design of cargo pants pairs perfectly with the sporty, comfortable nature of sneakers. The versatility of sneakers allows for a range of looks, from sleek low-tops for a cleaner, more refined appearance to chunky, retro-inspired sneakers that emphasize a more urban or athletic vibe.
It’s perfect for when you need an easy, comfortable outfit but still want to look stylish. Cargo pants and sneakers work well for casual dress codes and activities like going to the mall, meeting friends, or attending relaxed events like barbecues or festivals.
Choose neutral or earth-toned cargo pants like olive, khaki, or beige to keep things grounded, and opt for sneakers in classic colors like white, black, or grey for a clean look. For a bolder outfit, try adding some color contrast with brightly colored sneakers or incorporating patterns, like camo cargo pants with monochrome sneakers. A bomber jacket or a hoodie will give a street-style edge.
Cargo Pants With Boots
Cargo pants and boots create a rugged, practical, and masculine look that works particularly well for outdoor or colder weather settings. Combat boots or work boots are great options, as they align with the utilitarian aesthetic of cargo pants. Avoid pairing them with overly sleek or shiny dress boots, as these can clash with the laid-back, rugged vibe of cargo pants.
This outfit is ideal for a variety of occasions, especially when you’re engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or even urban exploration. The combination also works well for casual settings where you want to convey a tough, outdoorsy style. It’s great for day trips, weekend getaways, or even casual outdoor events.
Stick with neutral cargo pants in shades like olive, brown, or grey to pair with classic leather or suede boots in brown, black, or tan. You can add a flannel shirt or a puffer jacket for layering in colder weather, and accessories like a leather belt and a sturdy watch enhance the rugged, practical appeal of the outfit. For an extra touch of style, cuff the bottom of the cargo pants slightly to highlight the boots.
Cargo Pants With Hiking Boots
Cargo pants with hiking boots form the ultimate adventure-ready outfit. The structured, multi-pocket design of cargo pants pairs seamlessly with the heavy-duty support of hiking boots, which are built for stability and durability. Avoid sleek or fashion-forward boots, as these might not have the rugged quality needed for outdoor environments.
This combination is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or trekking. It’s great for casual adventures and weekend getaways where you need both practicality and comfort. This pairing is also suited for cooler weather, as it offers protection and durability.
Stick with earth-toned cargo pants like brown, olive, or grey, which pair well with hiking boots in neutral shades like black, brown, or tan. For an outdoor-ready outfit, layer with a performance T-shirt, fleece, or a waterproof jacket.
Cargo Pants With Sandals
Cargo pants and sandals are a go-to for casual summer wear, creating a laid-back, breezy look. The loose fit of cargo pants balances well with the open, airy feel of sandals. Sandals like slides or simple leather designs work best with cargo pants, as they offer a minimalist contrast to the more rugged aesthetic of the pants. Avoid bulky or overly strappy sandals, which can overwhelm the look and make it appear too busy.
This combination is ideal for casual settings such as beach outings, barbecues, or weekend errands during the summer months. It’s perfect for environments where comfort is the priority, but you still want to look pulled together.
Stick to lightweight cargo pants in lighter shades like beige, khaki, or light grey, and pair them with neutral or earthy-toned sandals. You can also add a T-shirt, short-sleeve button-up, or a casual linen shirt to keep the look summery and easygoing. Accessories like a straw hat, aviator sunglasses, or a woven bracelet can elevate the beachy vibe of this outfit.
