Lately I've Been Wanting Cargo Pants, and I'm Really Scared

I've been marinating on my resistance to cargo pants for quite some time now. I see the trend everywhere (yes, they're officially a trend again) and want to participate in it, yet there's something holding me back. With one quick fact check with my old friend Merriam-Webster, I realized what's holding me back is my pride.

My favorite definition of this word is "a reasonable or justifiable self-respect." I love justifying things. I love justice. But unfortunately I love it more in the petty sense. Rather than screaming "Let's go fight injustice worldwide!" I text my friends paragraphs about how I have personally been victimized by an (insignificant yet upsetting) injustice like my ex-boyfriend spreading rumors about why we broke up or not being able to get into my favorite ClassPass class. Life is so hard!

By now you're probably wondering how on earth this relates to cargo pants. It relates because I have, in the past, spoken negatively about cargo pants. There—I said it. I may or may not have even made fun of people who wore them. So now I find myself in a pickle. Wearing cargo pants will simultaneously label me a hypocrite and strip me of my pride. Am I ready for that? Am I ready to admit I was wrong about cargo pants? I told you, I was a fashion bully, and I am very opinionated. Not saying any of that is okay, but here we are.

Basically, this story is a public declaration of my sincerest apologies for ever speaking poorly of cargo pants, a confession that I am scared to wear them, and a promise that I will, despite my pride, buy a pair and wear them with confidence. I honestly think the return of this pant trend feels fresh and exciting. There are so many ways to style them that after owning a pair, you and I may even consider swapping our jeans out for the trend. At least for a few weeks.

I would have never reported this as good news, but I'm a changed woman, so I'm telling you there are actually tons of incredible cargo pants to choose from. And if camouflage prints and oversize, mysteriously placed pockets frighten you, simpler utility styles might better suit you. If you need styling inspiration, I've pulled a few of my favorite street style shots. Additionally, I shopped out the pairs I'm loving right now so you too can immediately hop on the cargo pant train.

This is how I will look at anyone who questions me wearing cargo pants from this point forward. 

This festive pink striped sweater lightens up a heavier cargo pant.

A statement stiletto bootie does wonders with a utility/cargo pant. Also, when in doubt, throw a visor on. 

They even look good with a puffer…

This may or may not be my favorite look and is further proof that an outlandish furry jacket makes every outfit better.

Shop cargo pants I love:

After this long-winded story about my journey to accepting cargo pants, I hope you don't end up hating me but start loving the trend instead. Don't let me know if it ends up being the former.