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.
I'd get this colorway for summer.
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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See You Next Summer, Light-Wash Jeans—for Fall, This Is the Only Denim Trend That MattersAs seen on Hailey Bieber in L.A.
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Fashion People Are Elevating Boring White Tanks by Wearing Them With This Elegant Skirt Trend Instead of JeansAs seen on Zoë Kravitz in Paris.
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If the Ease of Jeans and a T-Shirt Came in Dress Form, It Would Look a Lot Like This…Spotted in Brentwood on Kendall Jenner.
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This Is *the* Pretty Dress Trend to Wear With Tights and Heels If You Want to Get Compliments This FallTrust us.
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By October, You'll Understand Why This Specific Bag Trend Is So Popular Among Fashion People Who "Get It"Andy Sachs gets it.
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Spotted in Ibiza: Dua Lipa Wore the Provocative Dress Trend That'll Still Be Relevant in 2026Guaranteed.
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In Paris, L.A., and London, Basic White Tees Are Getting Sidelined In Favor of This Cooler AltWe'll always love you, but it's not your turn right now.
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Dakota Johnson Wore a Completely Backless Mini In This Better-Than-Black Color to the Splitsville After-PartyPlus, see her metallic leather gown from the premiere.
