My own quest to achieve the "little top, big pants" look wouldn't be complete without some cute cargo pants. Say what you will about the early-aughts revival, but I'm all for clothing that's utilitarian and in fashion at the same time. Women's pants are notorious for their lack of pockets (or worse, those fake decorative pockets), so the trend creates an incentive to update your wardrobe with comfortable, loose-fitting pants that can actually carry your personal belongings.
Despite their practicality, you can create a sophisticated work outfit from a simple white button down shirt tucked into a high-waisted pair. Below, you'll find the best cargo pants for women to offset a blazer and heels, such as these affordable dressy cargo trousers from Amazon. I've also included casual styles akin to the best joggers for women, like the super-soft Vuori Boyfriend Cargo Jogger. For more relaxed-fit bottoms, see our guide to the best wide-leg jeans.
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Available in petite, long, and straight sizesThe high-rise waistband and plentiful pockets make this the essential pair of cargo pants. -
Highly rated on AmazonThis pair can be dressed up for work and has roomy wide legs for comfortable all-day wear.
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Cinched with a bowLight colors are in season again. These off-white trousers have unique ties around the ankles.
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Staff Pick
Relaxed and slouchyChoose from a range of springtime pastel colors in this breezy pant, available in short and long sizes.
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He’s not getting these backPerfect for travel and lounging, these sweats are made from a supremely soft and stretchy fabric.
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Cuffing seasonComplete your skatewear look in these durable straight-legged pants with contrast stitching details.
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Staff Pick
Effortlessly coolThe Carly Cargo jeans have a military inspired look with 4 cargo pockets and a high-rise fit.
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Sale
Warm and heavyweightThis long wool pair is part of the brand's collaborative capsule with model Emily Ratajkowski.
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Hems with flairThese high-waisted bootcut pants come in a neutral color you can mix and match with any outfit.
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Adjustable shockcord hemsCatch the light on the sheen of this mid-rise pair made with Japanese satin.
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Keep comfy like a KardashianMatch these cargo sweats with SKIMS’ collection of matching tops for a monochromatic look.
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Preppy and pinstripedJ.Crew’s relaxed fit cargo jeans have oversized pockets and are made with 100% cotton.
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Trendy low-rise waistbandKeep your belongings safe in these pants’ zippered pockets. Its matching jacket has several pockets, too.
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Yes, pleatsNothing works as hard as rigid black denim. Try topping these cargo jeans off with colorful accessories.
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Sale
Buy 3 for $29These roomy velour cargo pants have an early aughts-inspired look.
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Golden linenMetallics are in. The understated gold tint on this pair is meant to get better with each wash.
