DO CARGO PANTS REALLY GO WITH EVERYTHING?

Before you start throwing on additional pieces, it’s best to perfect the fit of your cargo pants first. Like with any wardrobe basic, your cargos will serve as the foundation for your 'fit, so nailing the silhouette and shade is vital. So, should your cargo pants be baggy or tight? That really depends on personal preference. Take cues from your usual trouser choices and take it from there. As a rule of thumb, opt for straight-leg boxy fits if you’re used to wearing simple tees and jackets. But slim-fitting pairs are great for pairing with casual hoodies and knits. As for colour? Neutral beiges and ecru will always have a place in your roster, but especially as the weather heats up. If you’re a man with a busy schedule, however, black is your safest bet. Durable, wearable and great for hiding spills.

GET THE LOOK: 

Jack & Jones loose fit cargo trouser in black, £35
Obey giant cargo pant in grey, £150
ASOS DESIGN baggy cargo trousers in khaki, £32
Jack & Jones Paul jersey tapered cargo pant in cream, £45

Cargos are some of the more casual trousers on the market, so it’s always sensible to pair them with trainers. Workwear-leaning pairs like Salomons are a great choice, as well as timeless brands like New Balance and adidas. If you’re styling a more oversized silhouette, there might be more space to branch out when it comes to your shoes. Straight-leg, roomy cargo pants look great with chunky loafers (especially in black), as well as trendy footwear styles like the Clarks Wallabee.

GET THE LOOK: 
Salomon XT-Whisper trainers in tan and sage, £140
Asics Gt-2160 trainers in black and brown, £125
New Balance 1906r trainers in grey, £140
Dr Martens unisex Adrian bex loafers in black leather, £170

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to pairing cargo pants with tops. They work with almost anything, be it a simple white T-shirt or a denim jacket. Tighter pairs are great with simple hoodies and knits, balancing your ensemble for a high-low feel. Wide or barrel-leg designs also look sleek with a button-down cotton shirt; just be sure to style it casually with an oversized tee underneath. If you fancy going all-out workwear, a boxy chore jacket in a matching shade creates the perfect everyday cargo trousers outfit.

GET THE LOOK: 

ASOS DESIGN heavyweight crew neck t-shirt in white, £12
ASOS DESIGN oversized brushed flannel shirt in khaki, £32
Vans drill chore canvas jacket in black, £70
ASOS DESIGN essentials relaxed fit hoodie in navy, £24

For your final flourish, we turn to accessories. Balance the cargos’ off-duty energy with elevated pieces like watches and sleek silver jewellery. If you’re leaning into oversized territory, caps and beanies are great headwear options, and classic sunglasses like chunky square frames are a nice nod to the cargos’ timeless design. We also love pairing cargo pants with tech-forward bags like a nylon crossbody. Even better if this has durable straps and pockets to match your bottom half. If nothing else, you’ll always have space for your essentials.

GET THE LOOK: 
Emporio Armani Men's chronograph, stainless steel watch, ar11581 in silver, £329
ASOS DESIGN molten link chain bracelet with hammered detail in silver, £10
Bershka Pack of 2 steel rings in silver, £17.99
ASOS DESIGN square sunglasses with solid brown lens and brown frame, £14