You look great in both outfits! Nodding my head to the first one in particular though - my brown satin cargo pants were originally a wildcard, but I now love them for many of the same reasons that you listed (I find an elasticated waistband more versatile than a drawstring one, & agree that 'jogger' cuffs are more flattering). So much so, I just bought a pair of bronze satin cargo pants too! No tugging required to be dressy
I like how you paired your pants with sequins but dressed it down with sporty sandals - I can imagine them working well with other textures too, like velvet & chiffon.
'Funky but comfy' shoes seem to be a prerequisite for interestingly versatile looks - seems you've got that sorted too. Almost makes me want to go shoe shopping in TW!