Cargo pocket pants: yay or nay

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Angie is co-founder of YLF and its resident fashion stylist.

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Cargo pocket pants: yay or nay

— by Angie

on March 12, 2010

As part of this season’s 90’s fashion revival, utilitarian cargo pocket pants are trending for Spring. I have mixed feelings about cargo pocket pants so I vote both yay and nay. Some cargo pocket pant styles look very unflattering to my eye. Yet I adore the look of others.

I like knee length cargo pocket pants best, particularly in silk blends and worn with heels as shown in the pictures above. I also like this style in casual fabrications worn with flats, which is a look we discussed last season. So for me, cargo pocket pants are a yay when they’re short and I like them even more with a dressy touch. Ironic, since they’re supposed to be casual bottoms.

I don’t like the look of long cargo pocket pants worn casually, like those below, nearly as much. It’s especially unflattering when you carry a little extra in the hip and thigh area. Pear shaped body types stay away!

Needless to say, the cropped lengths that end just above the ankle and below the calf with wide hems that are worn with flats give me heart failure. Extra long and slim legs relative to the rest of the body are prerequisites for the silhouette. So if you’re a tall-ish inverted triangle, you’ve definitely got a head start on making this look work.

I wore long khaki cargo pocket pants 15 years ago along with the rest of the world. They didn’t feel right then and they don’t feel right now. But I’m still after a smarter silk pair in clamdigger length so I might give the top styles a go. What’s your perspective on cargo pocket pants? Yes, no, or maybe?

51 comments · Add a comment

Sarah

(website)

Veteran

So I love the shorter ones, Angie. I’m just super afraid to try them on. Maybe I’ll find some at Zara today to try for the heck of it.
I learned long ago to stay away from the long cargo pants. They do me no favors.

March 12, 2010 at 8:08 am

RoseandJoan

Veteran

I wore my full length tan coloured cargo pants in the 90’s with a sheer-ish navy tank and denim jacket. It felt okay then but do you remember what a nightmare those pockets are to iron?

I’m a different person now, what was cute at sixteen will look very sad on a 32 year old MOTG.

I will not be adding a shorter pair of cargos to my wardrobe when I could add another flippy skirt instead:)

March 12, 2010 at 8:14 am

cee

I have a pair at that unfortunate between ankle and calf length, and you’re completely right that they’re terrible with flats, but I absolutely love them with casual low heels. They are my favorite summer pants for casual days. I also like how I can fit items in the knee pockets without looking bulky, so I can go without a purse.

I do think the shorter length would be nice to allow the option of flats.

The long version really suffers from not having the gathering at the knee that the short ones do. They look plain and boring compared to shorter cargos, but not simple or flattering like more fitted pants. They only way I would do long cargos is in a highly textured fabric like linen, but that’s so casual I can’t think of any place to wear it other than on a beach.

March 12, 2010 at 8:15 am

kimana517

(website)

Active Member

I like all the top ones and the middle and right of the lower ones. The lower ones are definitely more casual though, but I like casual. I don’t have any though. I’m not a huge fan of khakis, even as an alternative to jeans. They show dirt and wear so much more easily.

Also, I think where you wrote “perquisites” you meant “prerequisites”. “Perquisites” is a word, of course, but it doesn’t really fit with that phrasing.

March 12, 2010 at 8:17 am

Lisette

(website)

Active Member

I have 2 pair of NWT shorter ones in black that I am putting on Ebay. They are nice and slim but definitely not good for me -I’m too short!

March 12, 2010 at 8:20 am

Maya

Veteran

I have pants just like the ones on the top right, but without cargo pockets, so I guess they are technically something totally different.The fit is the same though. I probably have the long gangly legs needed for this look but I like my pocketless pedal pushers just fine so I’ll just stick with them.

March 12, 2010 at 8:39 am

Laura

(website)

Veteran

As a former wearer of mid-calf cargo capris, I have learned to just say no to cargos. Even the short, dressy option doesn’t appeal to me anymore.

March 12, 2010 at 8:40 am

Sally McGraw

(website)

Active Member

I adore my cargo capris and clamdiggers, but the longer pants versions aren’t my favorites.

March 12, 2010 at 8:43 am

Rosie

There was a whole wall of them in Gap yesterday. I really like the look of the top row and might try it with a cropped pair I got last year. I have two pairs of really casual cargos from Lucy that I just always feel frumpy in. They are not as comfy as my lounge pants and not as flattering, either. This post just helped me move them to the donate or ebay pile!

March 12, 2010 at 8:47 am

marianne

Active Member

Last fall I bought pants like the middle ones in top row, in olive green, and I am glad to hear about the trend. I’ll be wearing mine with flats though.
I’ve worn long cargos in the past, but I see your point now – they didn’t make me feel too frumpy, but not too fab, and were usually reserved for traveling and outdoor activities.

March 12, 2010 at 8:50 am

Boof

Active Member

I have a pair of olive green full-length cargo pants that I’ve worn exactly twice in two years. Maybe it’s time to let them go. I do like the knee length versions, but there are too many other items I would enjoy more.

March 12, 2010 at 8:59 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Thanks, Kimana. It’s just been fixed.

Julie, good point about adding a flippy skirt instead of cropped cargo pocket pants to your Summer bottoms collection.

I also want to add that I like long cargo pocket pant styles on blokes and boys. I guess that’s why I don’t prefer them on ladies. They look overly masculine to my eye. With the cropped length and the addition of a heel, the silhouette becomes instantly more girlie.

Maya, I think you have pedal pushers and I remember how sweet they looked on your long legged frame.

If you’re not into cargo pocket pants of any description, you’re not missing anything in my opinion. But if you don’t like to wear skirts and dresses, and you’re sick of denim, they *can* provide an alternative.

March 12, 2010 at 9:04 am

Dusty

(website)

Active Member

I can’t get into cargos as fashion – they’re more “gear” to me since they’re so perfect for camping and hiking – long to keep you legs out of the itchy weeds, but they can be light enough to not melt you out in the summer and all the pockets for all the assorted “junk” you end up with when you take kids camping. I don’t think I even have any that fit anymore but I’ll probably look for a long pair at Goodwill for camping and leave them as gear.

March 12, 2010 at 9:07 am

Antje

Veteran

I think cargo pants can look quite cute in a casual setting, both the short ones and the full length ones. I have owned some myself and still have an old full length pair that I wear camping; I’d buy a short one again, too, for summer time casual “playtime”. But it’s definitely a strictly casual look for me. I’d wear them with flats, sandals or (sorry Angie) flip-flops.
I do not fancy the dressy cargo pants at all, and really don’t like silky ones, or the combination with heels. Hourses for courses!

March 12, 2010 at 9:18 am

Pam

I love cargoes for a casual setting only- weekend wear or wearing them around the house. I prefer the cropped types- I think the long ones look strange on me. I wear them with sandals or flipflops in the summer with a t shirt. I just love the pockets! I tend not to like to carry large purses so if I can get away with stowing my cell phone and keys in my pants, I would.

March 12, 2010 at 9:24 am

malcontent

I don’t like them. In fact, I dislike them so much I won’t even buy them for my five-year-old son.

I think they look sloppy and I object to a multitude of nonfunctional pockets. On women, they make the thighs look bigger, and only a few women are flattered by that kind of thickening. I think they are okay if you are actually going hiking or something, when looking stylish is beside the point. Otherwise, I don’t see any virtues of this style.

March 12, 2010 at 9:28 am

Joy

Veteran

Remembering the discussion on these last year and having seen a stylish older woman I know wearing this look, I bought a pair of INC soft black ones very much like the far right White House Black Market for $7 this winter at Macys. At that price I’d like to experiment with the look and plan to wear a white top and skin-toned wedge sandals or my KC Cedars in pewter with them. If they work out, I’ll be looking for a white or cream pair, although anything that looks good gathered at the knee in white is probably going to be too see-through.

March 12, 2010 at 9:31 am

Danja

The shorter styles definitely look more appealing and more forgiving. I used to love wearing cargo pants in my college days, and I find that my eye is drawn again to them, but this time I really like the ones made out of silky soft farbics so they fall and drape and look dressy. Although, I doubt that I will be getting a pair this season.

March 12, 2010 at 10:33 am

Louise

Veteran

A maybe from me. I really like the ones top left with the ruching and ties but i’m not so good with heels so fear they may not get much wear however if i can find a cheap pair i’ll certainly give them a go x

March 12, 2010 at 10:41 am

rae

I found an awesome pair if tailored, straight-leg cargo pants with drawstring/rouching detail on the lower legs! I LOVE them. They fit nothing like the long cargos pictured above. The first time I tried them on at home, my bf walked by and said, “Wow, your legs look really skinny in those.” Sold! lol.

The silhouette ends up being more like these:
http://www.ralphlauren.com/pro.....age=search

http://www.tobi.com/product/28.....ts?cmp=fgl

http://www.shopbop.com/slim-ca.....JUICY21742

March 12, 2010 at 10:47 am

rae

(website)

Veteran

I have a pair of of slim-leg, long cargo pants that the bf said makes my legs look “really skinny” (totally unsolicited). Needless to say, I LOVE them. They look nothing like the long pants above. More like these:

http://www.ralphlauren.com/pro.....GoogleBase

http://www.shopbop.com/slim-ca.....JUICY21742

(Sorry if I ended up posting twice. I did once before I logged in, and now I can’t see it anymore).

March 12, 2010 at 11:06 am

san

My kids wore cargo pants in the 90’s in HS and I thought they were cute and was so happy when I got my first pair. Do you think they are sort of a cult classic like Levis jeans were for a couple of generations?
I agree with you on how to style them for spring. I can see some cute but comfy chuncky heels like the Fidji styles with the knee length silk cargo pants. Sounds very cute and inticing.
For me the fact that they are sort of baggy with big pockets on the behind is a good thing.

March 12, 2010 at 11:21 am

Shana

yay for me! Since I am slimmer on my bottom half, cargo pants help balance me out! I have one full length pair from many years back that doesn’t get much use except for hiking and I picked up two shorter/clamdigger length pairs (similar to the top middle & right) last summer that I plan to wear again this year. For me, these are strictly casual – worn with flat sandals to chase after kids – basically my replacement for the bad, bad mid-calf capris!

March 12, 2010 at 11:25 am

Lady Cardigan

(website)

I find fake pockets so incredibly lame. If something has pockets, the pockets should actually work. Like, you can put things in them. Otherwise they say poser/lame/loser to me (and yes I have some cargo pants with non-working pockets, so I am poser/lame/loser).

Otherwise I think they’re OK because they provide some variety. I wish we could have more cool, pretty, varied styles of full length pants with colors and patterns and different styles, instead of everything being serious work trouser or blue jean or fake military/workman.

March 12, 2010 at 11:30 am

Tanya

Veteran

I am going to say yes, but with caution. I have not worn cargo pants in at least 10 years, but am curious about the short silky version.
I am even more interested in finding a right long version.The dress code at my new job requires long pants all the time, even in the summer. Jeans might get too hot, so a pair of lightweight, silky cargos made of nice thin drapey material might be the answer. I would probably go for military green or grey, since I am not a big fan of khaki. However, being a hourglass I have to be very picky about the design and placements of pockets, so it might take a while to find the perfect pair.

March 12, 2010 at 11:53 am

taylor

I am with you. I like knee length dressy fabric with heels best like photo #2. I am seeing these alot , but worn casually with flats:(

March 12, 2010 at 11:54 am

Anne

I have worn the short cargo pants in the past. I am a petite (5ft. 1 in.) inverted triangle so I have to be careful with length and definitely wear a heel plus keep the top very fitted.

March 12, 2010 at 11:59 am

jeune

I really like cargo pants and have two pair that are capri length. Being an inverted triangle with slender legs and no hips, they are good for me, whereas some other pants are not. It also depends on the placement of the pockets and the shoe, very much so!

March 12, 2010 at 12:00 pm

Pam

I have a pair of long cargos (gray, not khaki). I work at a gym so they are perfect for that environment. I can wear fitness tops with them, hoodies and lightweight fleece jackets (the gym is cold so the exercisers don’t boil) but the employees and owners freeze. I wouldn’t wear them for dress occasions or really anywhere other than the gym or hiking. To me, they are utilitarian, not fashion. I don’t care for capris or clamdiggers or any type as I think they cut the leg in half and are not that flattering.

March 12, 2010 at 12:18 pm

Musings of a Housewife

(website)

I actually kind of like the long ones with casual shoes. I bought a pair last fall that are similar to the ones you have pictured on the left. I wear them with t-shirts and my Privos and they are a nice jeans alternative for a stay at home mom who lives a very casual lifestyle. I wouldn’t go for the heels, although I like the just-below-the-knee length too.

March 12, 2010 at 1:10 pm

Janet S.

I’m in the yes as gear, no as fashion category. I love functional pockets, and hate it that women’s fashions so rarely have them. I find non-functional pockets silly and infuriating. So, in order for cargo pants to work for me, the pockets have to be functional, which means the pants have to be full enough that I can actually put stuff in the pockets without having big bumps on my legs. That means if I wear them, it’s not for looks.

I’m all in favor of knee-length pants for looks. But leave the cargo pockets off of them.

March 12, 2010 at 1:10 pm

mamark

I tried some cargo “capris” on that were actually knee-length, so I guess you’d call them clamdiggers. Unfortunately they were wide-legged and as such were extremely unflattering. I’d totally go for a pair like the ones you show on the top far right. I think the drawstrings are a great idea.

March 12, 2010 at 1:19 pm

carrie

(website)

Active Member

Nay. The last thing I want is something that draws the eye down to the thigh.

March 12, 2010 at 1:58 pm

yublocka

(website)

I wore full length cargoes in the 90s, but doubt I”ll revist that or these shorter versions again in 00s. Plenty of other, more applealling options around at the moment. I’d rather find (or make) a pair of geat fitting clams.

March 12, 2010 at 2:56 pm

Queen Mum

Veteran

I actually like the look of the bottom row middle and far right the best. Those look to me as a great kick around, park day, not going anywhere important casual pant. Jeans can be too heavy as the weather warms up, so those look like a good casual alternative.
I don’t care for the look of the knee length cargoes with the heels. Please forgive my blunt opinion, but it looks cheap and unrefined to me. It just seems odd- if you’re going to wear cargo pants, then wear them with a cute flat sandal and enjoy the casual carefree style. If you want to dress up, then leave the cargo pants behind.
And now, you’re probably going to make me eat my words by throwing together a fabulous outfit with heels and cargo pants

March 12, 2010 at 3:00 pm

Mac

Yes… on other people. On my pear-shaped body, it’s a no-go. But on someone skinnier and “straighter” I think they can look lovely.

March 12, 2010 at 3:43 pm

marianna

Veteran

Hmm, not for me. Cargo pants don’t excite me at all.

March 12, 2010 at 3:59 pm

Kyle

Veteran

I like them (full length) with a platform sandal or shoe and dressy blouse for contrast. I was hungering to wear mine this very morning, put them on, and found I was swimming in them. I think they’ll be too tough to alter.

March 12, 2010 at 4:00 pm

Mellllls

Veteran

I have a pair similar to the ones on the top right from college. Every summer I think about wearing but never ending doing so. Maybe I will be inspired this year!

March 12, 2010 at 4:19 pm

Meredith

Nay. I think that these just look very sloppy. And after you wash them once, you can never get the pockets to look nice.

I’m in favor of staying with a flippy skirt and leggings!

March 12, 2010 at 4:45 pm

Beth

Veteran

Hmm. They don’t really excite me either. Given the option, I’d go with the shorter pants with flats, not heels. But like a few other posters, I’d much rather just go with a fun skirt for the summer. Pants, even short ones, are just too hot!

March 12, 2010 at 6:08 pm

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

I am 100% with you on this- love the top looks, but not so much the bottom ones. I won’t be trying this style out though- heels are just not practical for me.

March 12, 2010 at 7:55 pm

Ingrid

I never used to like cargos (HATED them in the 90s as everyone wore them) but just picked up a pair of dark olive ones in a very light rayon fabric, and I love them!!! I am a tall inverted triangle with very slender legs so maybe that’s why they look OK on me as Angie suggested. I can actually wear them ruched above my ankles via a clip and they look great with my bronze high heeled shoes. Even my husband likes them.
(BTW the fabric says dry clean only, but I hand wash them in lukewarm water and they are fine.)

March 12, 2010 at 7:56 pm

Kyrania

Active Member

I like them on others….don’t like the loose fitting look on myself..HOWEVER, i just ordered a pair of slim/straight leg cargo pants from Victoria’s Secret and i LOVE ’em!

I get the cargo style with a long lean look….PLUS the colors are nice like the cobblestone color i purchased….earthy and warm…and VERY comfortable.

March 13, 2010 at 1:51 am

Cricket

They are very casual and I do have a pair of knee-length cargos that fit well which I like to wear for casual needs.

March 13, 2010 at 9:06 am

cindy594

I like both the shorter and longer versions, though I would never wear them with heels – that’s too trendy for me, I guess.

I’m an inverted triangle, so the silhouette works for me, I think. Like “housewife” above, I also like to wear the longer version with a pair of fashion sneakers, a graphic tee and denim jacket for very casual days.

March 13, 2010 at 10:13 am

Mary

Angie, I have a question for you regarding the length of cropped pants. Why do think that cropped pants need to be cropped at the knee and that pants that hit just above the ankle are unflattering? Do you think this is true for everyone. I personally think it totally depends on body type. For instance, I’m 5’5″ tall and a size 8. I’m long waisted with legs that are short in proportion to my upper body. I look terrible in cropped pants that hit at the knee or calf. I look much better in longer capris that end just above my ankle….these were much easier to find about 10 years ago. I often wear this type with a wedge heel. It gives me a longer look to my leg area. Also, I like cargo type pants that don’t have all the extra side pockets….more like utilitarian casual pants and I prefer the long length.

March 13, 2010 at 1:26 pm

The Budget Babe

(website)

i’m on the hunt for a budget friendly pair of cargo skinnies (j brand makes a fab pair but they’re $200). fit will be key but this could be a great alternative to skinny jeans for summer!

March 13, 2010 at 7:35 pm

Deborah

(website)

I love this look. I’ve also thought that this look is flattering on several figure-types. Love it!

March 15, 2010 at 5:29 am

neva

Active Member

i copied and pasted this comment from the facebook post and the prior comment stated “you needed to be under 25 or skinny to wear this look”.

i actually like the knee length with a smart heel say like a wedge sandal and I am definitely not skinny or under 25 lol! i wear mine with a cute little kitten heel thong sandal. they are super comfortable and easily dress up (say with a flirty blouse) or down (like with a tee and a boyfriend jacket). my cropped cargoes fit very close to the body because the baggy fit does nothing for my hourglass lol. i also have a pare of light weight cotton white colored full length cargoes that i use as a cover up for the beach.

another trick i would suggest, since i do not like the “puffiness” of the cargo pockets on most pairs is to look for a pair with the bottom of the cargo pocket completely sewn down. All of my cargoes are like this.

March 15, 2010 at 5:42 pm

Skinny Cargos: casual pant of the season

(website)

[…] talked about the resurgence of cargo pocket pants in Spring as a nod to 90’s fashion. My feelings about cargo pocket pants are mixed as I like some […]

August 11, 2010 at 7:50 am

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