What are cargo pants
Cargo pants are straight trousers, made mainly of dense textures, equipped with patch pockets (on the buttocks, on the knees, etc.) and a wide belt.
The first cargoes appeared during the harsh years when the Second World War raged. The presence of numerous pockets was not dictated by fashion, but by severe necessity. In them, as in a field backpack, they put a map of the area, tools, equipment, a flask of water, and food. By the way, in translation “cargo” means “cargo”.
These comfortable military-style pants were made from heavy-duty, weather-resistant khaki fabrics to give the appearance of an army uniform. Not only the stronger sex wore them, but also women, everyone who participated in hostilities. Naturally, the cargo of those years was far from elegance and femininity.
In the 60s, cargo was taken into account by fishermen, hunters, builders and other workers who had to constantly carry with them many useful small parts.
Cargo pants achieved enormous popularity in the 90s, when young people of both sexes who were opposed to war began to wear them. Girls wore military-style pants with pleasure, and famous designers developed new models of cargo trousers in a unisex style. Traditional colors were olive, sand, marsh, khaki, as well as camouflage print.
Despite the decline in popularity in the early 2000s, cargo pants retained many fans. It was mostly teenagers who appreciated these comfortable pants not only for their style, but also for their versatility.
From the battlefield to the fashion catwalk
Cargo pants came into use during World War II as part of the wardrobe of military infantrymen. Translated, the model name means “cargo.” The design of the clothing made it possible to unload the shoulder backpack, while providing quick access to area maps, a compass, a flashlight and other necessary things that should be at hand. It is for this functionality that pants are still “tenderly” loved by hunters, fishermen, and drivers.
The unisex model stepped from the streets to the catwalks in the nineties of the last century, known to fashionistas as the grunge era. Today, it’s a rare stylish young lady who can do without cargo pants. Of course, fashion designers have brought noticeable changes to the appearance of panties. To sew them today, not only thick cloth or khaki cotton fabric is used, but also noble linen, satin, denim, knitwear, and synthetic fabrics.
Luckily, the color palette of the trousers has also changed, so when you wear them, you don’t have to worry about looking like an army sergeant on leave. Stylists offer a variety of shades, from classic blue, beige or gray to white, silver, and pink. This, by the way, significantly expanded the fashionable functionality of the model. Modern cargo can easily fit not only into military style, but also into casual, safari, sport chic, and office business wardrobes.
A distinctive feature of the model remains the large patch pockets and patches that adjust the length and width of the trouser legs. Metal fittings are often used for decoration: rivets, chains, zippers, buckles.
How cargo pants have changed
Modern cargo pants look different from WWII military pants. The couturiers interestingly adapted this stylish item to fashion trends.
Today, trousers no longer confuse anyone with their rudeness; on the contrary, they fit quite harmoniously into the urban style and are combined not only with military boots, but also with elegant shoes. The number of pockets was reduced, and the colors, on the contrary, were diversified, including black, gray, blue, yellow, white and even pink.
The changes also affected textures. If previously cargo was sewn exclusively from thick fabric - cloth, today satin, satin, silk and, of course, denim are actively used.
The length and width of the legs can vary; some models are equipped with cuffs that fit tightly around the ankles. The highlight of the pants is still the spacious patch pockets.
Today we can say that cargo is experiencing a rebirth. Famous designers presented a lot of variations in their collections. The bright trend was also picked up by celebrities - Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani, etc.
According to the glossy magazine, all the fashionable bohemians are wearing cargo and are combining them with trench coats, parkas and English coats.
What are the advantages of cargo pants?
Today, cargo is extremely popular among women, especially among the fair half of humanity who lead an active lifestyle. Young mothers also find them very convenient, because in the numerous pockets you can put various little things that your child needs on a walk - a bottle of water, a scarf, a toy, etc.
Cargo will be more than appropriate for country walks, since the thick fabric reliably protects against insect bites, and the presence of pockets allows you to take with you on a picnic not a bulky backpack, but an ordinary handbag.
The main advantage of the pants is their versatility. You can wear cargo with both classic wardrobe items and casual style items. They look good on both a plump mature woman and a thin teenage girl.
In addition, you can use them in any situation - at work, walking, party, shopping. You just need to choose the right shoes and accessories.
Many girls consider cargo pants to be an excellent alternative to dresses and skirts, as they provide maximum freedom of movement, and the rough cut of the trousers not only does not spoil the look, but, on the contrary, adds a unique twist to it.
And, finally, a variety of styles, colors, textures and decorative elements (metal fittings, valves, straps, rivets, openwork stitches, rhinestones, etc.) will allow every woman to choose the best option for herself.
How to choose cargo pants based on your body type
As mentioned above, cargo pants are suitable for all women without exception and look good on any body type.
Inverted Triangle
Women with this type of figure have narrow, boyish hips and broad shoulders. Spacious pants with large patch pockets in the hip area will suit them. These details will add the missing volume and balance the proportions of the top and bottom.
Rectangle
For girls whose figure resembles a rectangle - hips and shoulders are the same width, no waist - skinny cargo pants with a minimum number of pockets in the upper front part of the trousers are suitable. But patch pockets on the buttocks and a belt at the waist will allow you to turn the “rectangle” into an “hourglass”.
"Apple"
For girls whose figure visually resembles an apple, stylists recommend considering narrow pants with an elastic waistband. Thanks to this detail, you can not only hide your protruding belly, but also add elegance to your silhouette.
Hourglass
Owners of this type of figure (pronounced waist, equal width hips and shoulders) are the luckiest, as they can wear any model.
Having decided on the style, pay attention to the fact that the trousers should provide maximum freedom of movement, optimally a two-step zone. The classic cargo model best meets this requirement. Choose pants that are true to size so that they fit snugly on your hips without appearing too tight or baggy.
We study styles
The huge variety of existing proposals can confuse every second girl. First you need to decide what time of year the product is intended for. So, natural and breathable materials are relevant for summer; for cold autumn and winter, denser ones are preferable.
The following fabrics are used for creation:
- thin cotton;
- chintz;
- linen;
- atlas;
- denim;
- silk.
Choosing the optimal shade is also not an easy task. Since the classic range has long moved away from camouflage, modern fashionistas have access to any fantasies.
Blue version
Light
The model range also differs in the width of the trouser legs. Samples that are narrowed at the ankle look more impressive, while those widened look avant-garde. The length varies from the very heel to the mid-calf with turns and cuffs. Sometimes cropped cargo pants are confused with capri pants.
With pockets
To create a look that is at the same time strict and elegant, just choose the option with a cuff that fits the ankle.
A narrow style with voluminous pockets is perfect for short beauties. For shoes, you should take a closer look at heels, wedges or platforms.
Women whose shapes are far from ideal should refuse such clothing, choose a minimum of decor and flat pockets.
With cuffs
This option visually tightens the figure, the legs look longer and slimmer.
When going to a club or on a first date, brighten up your look with a blouse in a delicate shade or a T-shirt with a romantic print.
Tops and lace tank tops, bodysuits and sexy bustiers are also suitable for this style.
Wide
Stylists suggest using this variation for girls with narrow hips and massive shoulders.
In this case, loose cargo pants with patch pockets in the hip area will help balance your figure.
Cargo pants: fashionable models
Modern manufacturers offer a wide selection of cargo in various styles. It should be noted that the classic style is rare today; girls mostly prefer narrowed and wide models.
Common features of cargo: a belt or sash at the waist, decor in the form of rivets, zippers, leather fragments and, of course, pockets.
Let's look at the most popular trouser models.
Classic
Straight-cut trousers with a large number of patch pockets over the entire surface.
Transformers
This model is very popular because thanks to the buttons and zippers, with a slight movement of the hand the trousers can be turned into shorts. This will allow you to wear them in both cool and hot weather. Transformable pants are very convenient for traveling, cycling, and outdoor recreation.
Tapered
The pants are wide at the top and narrow at the ankles. There are models in which the narrowing effect is achieved using fasteners (buttons, zippers) or cuffs.
Narrow skinny models have a cut that fits along the entire length of the legs.
Shortened
Cargo can have not only a classic length, but also a shortened one - to the middle part of the calves or to the knees. The width of the legs can also be any. Capris are extremely popular.
Wide
Wide cargo pants, which are characterized by maximum volume in the hips, look good on slender girls. But this model is not suitable for full ladies, as it will make curvy hips even more massive.
By the way, there are also extravagant wide models that are a hybrid of cargo and afghani. Truly, the fantasies of modern designers have no limits!
Sports
Many sports equipment manufacturers offer women's cargo pants. The trousers can be any width and length, and instead of a standard belt with a zipper or buttons, they are held at the waist with an elastic band.
Low waist
Such models are suitable for lovers of urban and sports styles. Women with problematic figures should choose high-waisted trousers so as not to attract attention to their protruding tummy.
High waist
Visually reminiscent of the army type of breeches. As a rule, they have a tight-fitting silhouette. Suitable for girls who want to emphasize the feminine shape of their hips.
Insulated
For cold weather, insulated brushed cargo pants will come in handy. Flannel, flannel, and fleece are also used as insulation.
The history of the emergence of the cargo style has two most likely theories. First: this style began with the robe of longshoremen, which had a wide cut and deep pockets. The second theory is its origin from military things. The first option is stylized work clothes, which captivated people with their simplicity more and more, modernizing from generation to generation, gradually winning their place in the casual style - everyday clothing. The main feature of the “cargo” style are pockets (cargo, English cargo).
Due to the fact that the twentieth century was full of wars, military clothing acquired an increasing number of different pockets for various needs. After the end of World War II, when the economy of almost all countries was in crisis, many people began to wear military or stylized military clothing. At the same time, it also showed quite obvious features of work clothes. The symbiosis of work and military clothing most likely occurred in 1938, when the British Army began to receive trousers of a new type, which were distinguished by the presence of additional pockets: one on the side, the second in the front in the hip area. Four years later, the American Army received a set of M-42 uniforms, which were intended for paratroopers. The beginnings of the cargo style are clearly visible in trousers of this shape.
There is an opinion that the “cargo” style was born from the military style. This is partly true. The cargo style as a separate branch of the military style has been developing very dynamically in recent years. Pockets often no longer carry a functional load, and exist mainly only as a design element. Moreover, military and cargo styles have long been exciting the imagination of designers working in the casual style. This clothing can be worn for a picnic, for meetings without ties, and on many other occasions. Even the top officials of the state are not alien to this style: V.V. became a striking example of this. Putin
The cargo style is characterized by a wide, loose cut and mostly natural materials. Very little synthetics are used only to give the material greater strength and elasticity.
Artificial aging of the material is also very common in the cargo style, which gives the overall appearance of the product a vintage mood and a certain zest. “Do you know how old this thing is?” Almost the entire range of military clothing for everyday wear can be safely attributed to the cargo style. The line between military and cargo style is so thin that sometimes it is not visible at all. If earlier for the cargo style, light colors and camouflage colors were unacceptable, only fabrics of dark shades from olive to dark yellow were used, but now stylized camouflage in clothing is increasingly gaining momentum. Particularly worth noting is the female trend of cargo style. Here you can see a riot of colors, decorative trim and pockets. The cargo style also tends to have a low waist.
The cargo style can also be seen in children's clothing lines.
In our store you can buy various types of cargo pants. Among them are trousers with a classic cut:
Kohler Rifelman oliv trousers
The trousers have a loose, straight cut, with dual-purpose pin tucks on the knees: for comfort when squatting and to prevent the knee from sagging during prolonged wear. The material is thick, artificially aged 100% cotton (ideal for winter). Artificial aging does not affect the strength of the material, but only imparts softness and a slight “hairiness” to it, very pleasant to the touch. Like most cargo pants, there are drawstrings at the bottom to tie these pants over your boots. Tucking trousers into high boots in the “Soviet” manner is, firstly, inconvenient due to the thick fabric of the trousers, and secondly, it is not beautiful: all the charm of the style is lost... And of course, pockets: two slit pockets at the waist, two rear slit pockets pockets with buttons and the most basic large, roomy patch side pockets with buttons. On each large hip pocket there is a small patch pocket with or without a flap for useful small items. The cut of the side pockets is such that the trousers start to look really cool if the pockets are “loaded” with something (the same packaging of paper handkerchiefs).
Pants KORPS Airborne wood
The trousers are made in a traditional loose style; they differ in the number of pockets; there are as many as 8 of them: two mortise pockets at the waist, two patch pockets at the back, two large hip pockets and two small hip patch pockets. On the left large hip pocket there are pockets for pens. I would also like to note that the four hip pockets are well thought out and do not restrict movement at all. The location of the large and small pockets is very convenient in relation to each other. Fabric: 100% cotton with aged effect (season: spring, summer, very). A distinctive feature of these trousers is the stylized camouflage pattern of the fabric (also available in a single color version).
There are also models that can be classified as both cargo and military style, and there will be no mistake. A striking example of such trousers can be considered Patton Fostex brown and KORPS Paratroopers oliv.
Flight trousers Patton Fostex brown
The prototype of the trousers was the trousers worn by Bundeswehr helicopter pilots. This model is made according to original patterns. But from thinner 100% cotton with artificial aging. The difference from the usual type of cargo trousers can be considered that all hip pockets are set-in and with zippers - only a pocket for a sling cutter located on the inside of the thigh of the left trouser leg (convenient for a small mobile phone) and a pocket on the back of the right trouser leg (ideal for pack of cigarettes). The lower set-in pockets are located at mid-calf height and are closed with a zipper. The waist pockets have flaps with a button, the back pockets are patch pockets and also have a flap with a button. There is a built-in zipper at the bottom of the trouser leg and you can optionally leave the silhouette straight, and when the zipper is unzipped, slightly wider at the bottom. There are many variations on the theme of these trousers, for example, the KORPS Paratroopers oliv (pictured below). Both models are designed for the spring, summer, and autumn seasons.
Also in our stores you can find men's cargo pants with a low waist and richer decor, for example Alpha Industries EDGE and Alpha OCTANE oliv
Alpha Industries EDGE Pants
The cut of these trousers fully meets the requirements of modern fashion and rargo style. A close fit on the hips, a loose cut of the trousers, a low waist, stylized overlays and reinforcements, the same large roomy pockets and a very soft, pleasant fabric - you can wear these all winter. In them “both to the world and to the feast.”
Alpha Industries Oktane oliv trousers
And this is a striking example of trousers with trousers that are relevant for the last two seasons, tapered from the knee down. They have a very low waist and do not have the usual huge number of pockets. But this is fully compensated by the overall style of the trousers. Fabric belt with a buckle stylized as a transport sling. The slanted patch pocket, stitched overlays on the inside of the calves, and the distressed dark olive cotton all speak to their special purpose. The best option for the spring-summer season.
These are just a few of the very comfortable and beloved cargo pants available at Force'Age Camouflage & Gear. Our assortment regularly includes more than 20 models of such trousers in different colors and fabrics for DIFFERENT FIGURES. The last point is especially important when you choose trousers like a car or a TV: carefully, taking into account all the technical parameters and your preferences.
Feel free to formulate your task of selecting and purchasing cargo pants to our sellers in any of the 3 stores in Moscow and we will help you make the right choice.
“We work throughout Russia: St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Kazan, Chelyabinsk, Omsk, Samara, Rostov-on-Don, Ufa, Krasnoyarsk, Perm, Voronezh, Volgograd, etc.
Fast delivery to the Moscow region: Balashikha, Podolsk, Khimki, Korolev, Mytishchi, Lyubertsy, Elektrostal, Krasnogorsk, Kolomna, Odintsovo, Serpukhov, Shchelkovo, Domodedovo, Orekhovo-Zuevo, Ramenskoye, Zhukovsky, Pushkino, Sergiev Posad, Dolgoprudny, etc.”
Current color range
The main feature of cargo pants is the color. Most of the models are made from fabrics in shades such as khaki, olive, light brown, but the choice of colors today is not limited.
Khaki
Khaki is a classic cargo color. These trousers will look great with a camouflage T-shirt or a plain long sleeve. To get into the fashion trend, stylists recommend looking not at traditional khaki, but at a rich olive shade with a golden or rich green undertone.
Black
Black cargo pants fit perfectly into a business look. If the dress code allows, they can also be worn to work, combined with a simple white T-shirt or a strict starched men's shirt tucked into pants. In cool weather, you can throw on a fitted short jacket.
Gray
Gray trousers are also suitable for creating a business look, but they look better in informal looks. Pink, white T-shirts, denim shirts, and tops with bright prints will look good with light gray cargo.
Camouflage
A real hit can be called camouflage trousers, which add a brutal touch to a girl’s image, but at the same time look feminine and aesthetically pleasing. Camouflage colors can vary from blue-blue to sandy-swamp. The purple-pink print looks interesting and unusual. Pants can be combined with either a light or dark top.
Beige
Beige cargo looks interesting and youthful. In stylish beige pants you can go to a rendezvous or spend a day off with friends when you have an entertaining event planned. They will look most stylish paired with a milky-toned jacket and a white T-shirt.
Colors and patterns
Previously, trousers were made mainly in dark colors and khaki. Today the color range is more varied.
Khaki
Classic color for cargo. Pairs with sportswear in camouflage colors. It also looks great with plain long sleeves.
Black
Black pants complement the business look. They are combined with light chiffon blouses and plain shirts that are tucked in.
These looks are suitable for the office and business meetings.
Gray
Gray cargo pants are used both for the office and for everyday outings. They are combined with tops, shirts, long sleeves and blouses.
Camouflage
Camouflage colors are a hit this season. They fit perfectly into casual style and are used by modern fashionistas for parties and trips out of town. These pants are combined with a plain top.
Beige
Trousers in beige tones are a sophisticated and gentle option for events and meetings with friends. They complement a feminine look with light blouses and pumps of a single color.
See also
Types of women's trousers with names and descriptions, fashionable images
What to wear with cargo pants: example looks
Many stylists consider cargo pants to be the most advantageous and spectacular item in the complex and capricious military style. The only thing that can compare with them is a uniform with epaulettes - an ennobled element of an army uniform, but it is more likely from the realm of the theater.
Cargo is much closer to modern girls, so fashionistas who are fluent in current trends, like a duck to water, are quite capable of solving the problem of what to wear cargo pants with. In this case, there are no ready-made recipes; it all depends on self-confidence, and not on established combinations, since with cargo pants success is one step away from failure.
Models on the catwalks wear army pants with such seemingly incompatible things as leopard print jackets, bright iridescent T-shirts, and snakeskin clutches. But be careful! What High Fashion demonstrates is not always applicable in real life.
However, if you're not afraid to experiment, follow Gwen Stefani's example and wear cargo with a transparent mesh T-shirt reminiscent of a fishing net or a short tank top. Well, if you really want to impress the people around you, mix your pants with a leather corset.
Military style
An ideal everyday option would be to create a military-style look using cargo. Combine khaki trousers with a plain turtleneck in muted green or sand shades, a military-cut jacket with a camouflage print and chunky boots with tread soles.
From accessories, choose those that are somehow related to military themes - a messenger bag, a brutal belt with a wide buckle, a cap or cap.
If your cargo has a camouflage print, pair it with a plain jacket, otherwise you will look like a soldier on leave.
Cargo pants are a self-sufficient thing, while patch pockets visually overload the silhouette. That is why it is desirable that the jacket have as few stripes, rivets, snap hooks and embroidery as possible.
Evening look
Contrary to popular belief, cargo pants fit perfectly into an evening look. As a rule, such models are made from expensive flowing fabrics - satin, silk. To create a feminine and sophisticated look, pair your cargo with original tops with a neckline and blouses with asymmetrical necklines. Be careful with frills, jabots and ruffles. The combination of these elements with cargo is not forbidden, but only sophisticated fashionistas can mix these different style items.
Instead of the usual belt, you can take a chiffon scarf and tie it flirtatiously around your waist. Naturally, shoes should be feminine and elegant. Don't forget about accessories, but don't get carried away with them!
Casual look
If you value practicality and comfort, you'll love the combination of dark green cargo pants, a white turtleneck and a black vinyl jacket. Suede pointed-toe lace-up ankle boots to match the trousers will help diversify the look and make it even more expressive. Instead of a jacket, you can easily use a light gray oversized sweater, and instead of ankle boots, boots with spikes.
How did cargo pants appear, and why do they remain popular?
Cargo is a style that was used to sew equipment for the British military. Cargo pants with pockets were of strategic importance for military personnel, since large pockets could hold all the necessary things for service: grenades, walkie-talkies, personal weapons. The wide shape that distinguishes the model was comfortable, and therefore became popular.
Cargo pants reached their peak in popularity among military personnel after the end of World War II. Fashion designers created casual collections that included this silhouette, as it was clearly associated with comfort.
Today, the military style is again relevant. Men's cargo pants modeled in this style should be distinguished by brutality, appropriate color shades and the presence of irreplaceable pockets. Together, these details impart masculinity to the created sets. The model is also suitable if you need to create a “militant” style.
Shoes
Cargo does not have to be worn with equally brutal shoes. They will look great with platform sneakers, snow-white Converse, sneakers, and loafers. Evening looks include high-heeled shoes, wedge sandals, delicate ballet flats, sophisticated pumps and even sculpted heels.
In autumn and winter, you can wear stiletto ankle boots and flat ankle boots. Well, if you are attached to the army style, feel free to combine cargo with Timbaland boots or combat boots.
