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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You *Could* Wear Leggings, But This Pant Trend Will Look Way More "First Class" at the AirportSpotted at Charles de Gaulle.
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Yes, You Can Wear Your Lace-Trim Shorts This Fall, But Only If You Style Them Specifically Like ThisImmediately re-creating.
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If You're Going to Wear Low-Profile Sneakers in 2025, Promise You'll Style Them With This Denim Trend FirstIt's the It-girl way right now.
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If You're Going to Wear Leggings in Fall 2025, Wear Them in This Shade With White SneakersAs spotted on Jennifer Lopez in NYC.
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FYI: If You Wear This Dated Sneaker Trend in Fall 2025, Make Sure It's With Baggy JeansBecause Gwyneth Paltrow says so.
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The Naked Dress Is Dead—Unless It's the Plot-Twist Version Dakota Johnson Just Wore on the Red CarpetSee how she reinvented the trend.
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Stylish Women All Over Milan Are Suddenly Swapping Out Their Classic Pumps for This "Dated" Shoe TrendSpotted on Shailene Woodley.
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Yes, Fashion People Are Still Wearing Leggings, But Only This Specific Style (and Not With Sneakers)The comfy-chic pairing we spot on every L.A. and New York It girl.
