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Cargo Pants Nowadays

The OG inspiration for cargo pants came from a British idea in the 1930s during World War II. It allowed soldiers to keep their hands free while on the battlefield from carrying necessary items like field dressings, maps, and other vital supplies.
Then in early 1940, the U.S army copied it for their paratroopers who needed secure storage when jumping out of planes. Using the pocket for ammunition and radios. More pocket-space meant more stuff could be carried. Hence, the “cargo” pant nickname.

The pants boomed in the ‘90s in a more streamlined silhouette as hip-hop streetwear. The iconic patch pockets became more decorative than functional, and fabrics have moved away from military-grade to lighter cotton or quick-drying synthetics to make cargo pants more practical for everyday wear.

Starting from 2022, cargo pants are getting a spotlight again as a pop culture’s ongoing obsession with Y2K trends. So you can find trendy styles in light-weight or luxury fabrics that are cooler and more wearable. The pants are cut from a durable, water-resistant nylon canvas with a hint of stretch that offers plenty of mobility. No wonder if cargo pants can be worn by both men and women.

These are cargo pants aesthetic that you might want to try someday! Men often paired it with a basic oversized white t-shirt. You can also layer it with many combinations like a different-color of t-shirt, flannel shirt, and baseball jacket. Try to add a chain necklace or pocket watch chain to make it more like a Y2K vibes or so called Gen-Z aesthetic.

If you want to go bolder and unique, pair the cargo pants with a formal shirt and tie. Voila, you are now a Pinterest star!. You can also layer a basic top with a sleeveless army inspired bomber or matching pocket-cut jacket to look edgy.