Cargo Pockets: Fashion with a Function

Cargo pockets are the hallmark of the utility trend, lending it instant recognisability. Take cargo pockets away from pants and you’re just left with pants. Normal pants. Maybe Carpenter at best. Now appearing on skirts, jackets and bags, like a rogue parent who stole away in the night and never came back, cargo pockets are forging a double life with other families.

Cargo pockets are an indispensable cornerstone of the utility trend. Migrating into every crevice of the fashion world, cargo pockets have recently found their way onto a pair of Rick Owens’ Spring/Summer 23 cargo fetish boots. These asymmetrical thigh-high boots feature cargo pockets on the sides with Velcro fastening, suggesting that items could actually be stored and secured in footwear.

But aren’t we forgetting about the bane of detritus from pockets? Wads of cotton and chewing gum wrappers that have seen better days. Cargo pockets can’t offer an escape from this, but they do offer a trendier option than the average pocket.

James Brown said, “this is a man’s world” and he was right. Since the dawning invention of the rucksack (think cartoon characters stealing away into the forest with a red checkered cloth tied to the end of a stick) women have been made to shoulder loads like mules. While men leave the house with nothing but wallet, keys and audacity, women have been towing makeup, chargers, first aid kits, novels, and the Declaration of Independence everywhere they go. On top of that, they are often victims to opportunistic partners, husbands, brothers and friends who see a handbag as an escape route from the burden of carrying literally two pieces of paraphernalia.

Cargo pockets are a great alternative to liberate yourself from the need for a handbag and introduce yourself to the glory of hands-free living. In the interest of equality, invest in a garment with cargo pockets and tell the men in your life to carry their own stuff. Or if you are said man, invest in a pair of cargo pants for yourself.

Cargo Pants

The most sure-fire and recognisable way to pick up on the trend. Cargo pants boast a statement silhouette that can be adapted to any outfit. If you like a baggy, low-rider look then a Y2K throwback fit pairs easily with a crop top or mini tee. Otherwise, if you prefer to level up to a new look, high-waisted straight-leg cargo pants can provide a polished alternative when paired with a singlet top and heels or white sneakers.

Guys can go for a monochromal look as a way to make your outfit look more "fashun." Layer with a dark coloured jacket or coat to finish the look. 

Shackets

Another infuriating portmanteau. But if you can get over your initial anger at just the sight of the word, shackets offer a versatile way to wear the cargo pocket trend. Often fitted with oversized patch pockets or utility pockets to the chest & hips, there is plenty storage capacity on the outside of these jackets alone.

Mix up proportions by layering a daringly super cropped top underneath, such as the MSE Standard Crop T-Shirt in Black with high-waisted pants. 

For guys, try wearing a cargo shirt buttoned up with slacks and sunnies to complete the look. 

 
Or if storage space isn’t so important to you, opt for a cargo skirt with mock pockets instead. This ensures that skirt remains a close, flattering fit.

Cargo Shorts

 
Cargo shorts are the cooler alternative to pants. Wear these on a warm day with a plain T-shirt to make the most of pocket storage with less fabric. Or choose your own adventure with zip off cargo pants which turn into shorts. They are the ideal travelling pants, just make sure you empty your pockets properly when you go through airport security.