Over the years, cargo shorts have come back into fashion. The humble and helpful shorts, with multiple pockets, are no stranger to controversy.
In 2016, a Wall Street Journal piece featured women who proudly threw out their husbands’ cargo shorts. As the news made the rounds, many came to see cargos as a cardinal sin.
But is all that hatred really deserved? Or are cargo shorts in style—and are the haters missing out? Come along as we answer these questions and share how to style cargo shorts in 2024.
A Brief History of Cargo Shorts
Like so much of men’s fashion (and fashion in general), cargo reached the mainstream by way of the military.
It started with cargo pants. In the 1930s, British soldiers wore these functional, many-pocketed pants to carry more gear on the battlefield. Not long after, American troops adopted the uniform and brought cargo pants across the pond.
After World War II, the cargo pant slowly seeped into the civilian consciousness. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that manufacturers chopped cargo pants off at the knees. Clothing companies started marketing the handy pocketed shorts to outdoorsy types: fishermen, hikers, golfers, and the like.
Then, in the 90s, cargo shorts made the jump from fishing wear to fashion, where they’ve stayed—sometimes as the star, sometimes as the mocked understudy—ever since.
Trend Analysis: Are Cargo Shorts in Style?
The answer is yes. If the endorsements from celebrities and fashion trend magazines are any indication, cargo shorts are back, and they're not alone. The resurgence of cargo shorts is part of a broader trend that includes hoodies with shorts and various men's shorts styles, signaling a versatile and comfortable approach to fashion today.
In fact, they may never have gone out of style; even in 2016, when tighter-fitting bottoms dominated the market, cargo shorts raked in over $700 million in sales.
But if cargo shorts ever did fall out of favor, they’re definitely making a comeback in 2024. As baggy, oversized clothes and 90s fashion trends continue to steal the spotlight, cargo shorts (along with their pant counterparts) are an obvious choice.
Of course, not all cargo shorts are created equal. Long, slim-fit varieties can feel awkward, and any plaid cargo short is too reminiscent of your dad.
That said, when the right types of cargo shorts are worn right, the results are as stylish as ever. As always, if you know how to wear it, it can work.
4 Ways to Style Cargo Shorts
So, how do you wear cargo shorts? With a carefully curated selection of tops and footwear, it’s easy.
Here are four looks to convince you that cargo jeans deserve a place in your summer wardrobe.
1. Plain and Simple
Although cargo shorts are “busy” from a construction standpoint, they’re often straightforward in terms of color; you can easily find a pair in black, gray, or olive green.
So, embrace the simplicity by sporting neutral cargo shorts with a white tee and sneakers. For more visual interest, try throwing on a graphic tee overtop.
2. Cargo Meets Camo
With the military origins in mind, there’s no better pairing than cargo shorts and camouflage.
For a more rugged look, sport a distressed camo cargo short with white high-top sneakers, a black graphic sweater, and a long white tee showing underneath. As the day heats up, you can lose the sweater and still look on point.
3. Techwear Trend
Techwear is a newer trend in fashion that combines style and functionality through the use of technical fabrics. And nothing says functionality like multiple pockets.
One way to incorporate cargo shorts into a techwear-inspired look is to rock active cargo shorts with a matching windbreaker or vest, chunky boots, and some sporty sunglasses.
If a full techwear fit feels too “out there” for you, try pairing the active cargo shorts with a plain black tee and some simple sneakers instead.
4. Summer Casual
For something more put together that wouldn’t look out of place at a summer office party, think about layering tops with your men’s summer shorts.
For example, you could take your favorite denim-colored cargos, throw on a white tee or undershirt, and slip a purple button-up on top, keeping the buttons undone for a breezy look.
Remember that streetwear accessories are your best friend; complete this look with a simple belt, a hat, or a silver quad chain.
Where to Buy Your New Favorite Cargo Shorts
As cargo shorts continue their ascent, you’ll see even more outfit ideas on the streets and the runway. And with a pair of your own, you can participate in the cargo revival. Part of the fun, of course, is experimenting with new ways to wear old staples.
If we’ve convinced you that men’s cargo shorts are worth adding to your regular rotation, it’s time to pick a pair or two for yourself.
Shop the mnml streetwear shorts collection today to find your new favorite men's cargo shorts.
Sources:
MilitaryTimes. A brief history of cargo pants, the military’s greatest fashion contribution. https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/military-culture/2020/09/12/a-brief-history-of-cargo-pants-the-militarys-greatest-fashion-contribution/
Uproxx. Key Moments In The Contentious History Of Cargo Shorts. https://uproxx.com/style/cargo-shorts-history/
Uproxx. Key Moments In The Contentious History Of Cargo Shorts. https://uproxx.com/style/cargo-shorts-history/
Fashion Magazine. Short Shorts Aren’t Just a Trend — They’re a Lifestyle: Unless, of course, you're a cargo pant devotee. https://fashionmagazine.com/style/short-shorts-for-men-cargos/
