As the days lengthen, we all long for the freedom of shedding our layers and slipping into skirts and dresses. Alas, the weather, at least on the East Coast, isn't quite ready to cooperate. The silver lining is that if you're tired of classic jeans, there's a polished and even more comfortable alternative that fashion insiders are turning to: cargo pants. Don’t believe me? Just take a look at Dakota Johnson’s latest street style moment.
While leaving a nail salon in Malibu, Johnson was spotted wearing a cropped white T-shirt from The Row, the celeb-favorite Birkenstock Arizona sandals, and black cargo pants. In case you were wondering, they're a style that was originally designed for the practical needs of soldiers in the 1930s. But these utilitarian trousers have since made their way to the forefront of fashion, evolving into a stylish and versatile must-have. Whether paired with a blazer, blouse, or casual tee and styled with anything from boots to heels, cargo pants are as adaptable as they come—making them a staple for trendsetters everywhere.
On Dakota Johnson: The Row shirt; Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Sandals ($170)
So, if you’re seeking an effortlessly chic yet functional alternative to jeans or leggings, look no further than cargo pants. Keep scrolling for a curated selection of standout styles to incorporate into your wardrobe this season and beyond.
Shop the best cargo pants:
Johnson's pants are likely designer, but you can also achieve the look for less with this pair that's under $60.
These look just like Johnson's.
These also come in taupe.
You can't go wrong with a classic pair of cargo pants.
So chic.
Free People does cargo pants so well.
Superdown tends to run large, so size down.
An editor favorite.
Wear these to the office with pointed-toe slingbacks and a sweater.
We're not done with chocolate brown just yet.
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Not Leggings, Not Bike Shorts: The Very Specific Activewear Trend L.A. Fashion Girls Wear to Pilates and the GymPerfect for a West Coast summer.
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So This Is the Grown-Up Way to Style a White T-Shirt Right NowAccording to Julianne Moore.
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Fashion People in Their 20s and 50s Wear This Flat-Shoe Trend With Skirts to Look ChicHint: It's not loafers.
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In SoHo, These Three Fashion Items Are Considered Every Fashion Person's Holy GrailsWorn separately or together.
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Return Those New Flats—*These* Are the Cool Shoes Fashion People Are Wearing With Dresses and SkirtsFresh and unexpected.
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Dakota Johnson's LBD Went From Plain to Pretty Thanks to This One DetailOne word: wow.
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Fashion People With Unlimited Access Still Only Wear Bikinis From This One BrandNamely, Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and Dua Lipa.
