For anyone whose teen years overlapped with early-aughts fashion, cargo pants are not new territory. Blame it on the influence of Avril Lavigne, Friends resident fashion insider Rachel Green, or Destiny Child’s “Survivor,” but many of us can recall adding heavy-pocketed pants to our signature look along with our platform sandals and our favorite flavor of Lip Smackers circa 2001. But nostalgia is just part of the reason for 2019’s resurgence of oversized cargo pockets on pants, jackets, vests, and other garments. It’s fair to theorize it also has something to do with practicality and—stay with us here—handbag trends.
Think about it: The most popular bags of the last few years all suggest a desire to carry around less baggage, Jacquemus’ Le Chiquito being the most extreme example. They may not be practical, but they do suggest an attitude shift, a desire of feeling unencumbered and navigating the world with just only the bare essentials. What’s even more liberating than ditching a bag that’s filled with an extra 15 pounds of just-in-case clothing, chargers, and more keys than there are doors to your apartment? Not carrying one at all.
Of course, that’s not to say that cargo clothing is having a moment simply because designers have consolidated our accessory game. The aughts came and went, but cargo pockets remained a constant in workwear, like they have been for the past century. And along with any of the other so-called daring trends of the last few years—sneakers, all manner of athleisure, and even a more relaxed office dress code approach—they seem like the natural progression for the fashion lover who doesn’t want to sacrifice comfort throughout their day.
The 2019 approach to the cargo aesthetic appeals to shoppers who lean into the baggy silhouette and will pair them with high-tops, as well as those who like contrasting fits and might style them with slim stilettos. You know that friend who gleefully announces “and it has pockets!” anytime you compliment her dress? She, too, might even find herself intrigued by cargo-pocketed clothing’s invitation to walk around a bit more untethered. Below, shop some of the newest styles that further suggest why the nostalgic trend feels more relevant than ever.
