These utilitarian trousers are coming back in a big way. Paired with the right pieces, cargo pants can take you from day to night in style.

First worn by the military, cargo pants were designed for functionality, but that doesn’t mean they can’t score high points in the style department. The loose-fitting cut offers ultimate comfort, and ultra-oversize pockets can hold all the things you usually keep in your purse. 

work

 

Photography, Julien Faugère

Yes, cargos can be worn to the office. Just pair them with a simple blouse and structured blazer. Finish off the look with chunky earrings and bold cowboy-style boots for a hit of playfulness. 

Cotton Sweetheart Short Sleeve T-SHIRT, $50, rw-co.com. Two Button Lined BLAZER in Loden Frost, $69, suzyshier.com. Resin Hoop EARRINGS in White, $10, hm.com/ca. Nurodeo Leather BOOTS in White, $150, aldoshoes.com.

weekend

 

Photography, Julien Faugère

A laid-back yet chic style is achieved by pairing cargos with a cozy cardigan and layered accessories. The unique embroidery on this sweater is sure to garner some compliments wherever your weekend takes you.

Sleeveless Crew Neck TOP in Jacaranda, $26, suzyshier.com. Embroidered CARDIGAN in Vanilla White, $308, scotch-soda.com. Sparkling Pavé Collier Bars Sterling Silver NECKLACE, $225, Slim Treated Freshwater Cultured Pearl Gold-Plated NECKLACE, $395, Sparkling Collier Round & Square Pendant Sterling Silver NECKLACE, $115, ca.pandora.net. Sayah SNEAKERS in Fog Blue, $160, cougarshoes.ca.

wow

 

Photography, Julien Faugère

A show-stopping feathered top instantly elevates the pocketed pants. Slip on yourtried-and-true nude pumps and classic gold jewellery and you’ll be set to paint the town red.

Abrielle Feather TOP in White, $395, lamarquecollection.com. Chunky Gold-Plated Bangle BRACELET, $79, pilgrim.ca. Metal Hoop EARRINGS, $8, suzyshier.com. Vionic Adalena PUMPS in Macaroon, $185, ketchshoes.ca.

Get the look

Feeling inspired? There are plenty of stylish cargo pants on the market.

 

Lido Wool CARGO PANTS in New Heritage Olive Green, $175, bananarepublic.ca.

 

Straight CARGO PANTS in Pigeon Blue, $35, hm.com/ca.

 

TRF Straight CARGO PANTS in Black, $50, zara.com.