Khaki, a plethora of pockets and a Nineties girl band vibe; that’s right, spring’s hottest fashion trend sees the comeback of cargo trousers as utilitarian style tops the charts, says Amy Norbury
There’s a distinctly utilitarian vibe among the hottest trends for SS23, and nothing says utility more than a pair of cargo trousers. A wardrobe staple among fashionistas everywhere in the late Nineties and early Noughties, cargo trousers have made a huge comeback of late, fuelled by the fashion set’s obsession with Y2K style.
A firm favourite with celebs galore including Rihanna, Hailey Bieber and supermodel sisters Gigi and Bella Hadid, cargo trousers have been seen across the catwalks for the past two seasons, with Fendi, Coperni and more showcasing utility style on their SS23 runways.
And as the voice behind The Masked Singer’s hotly-tipped finalist Fawn was revealed to be none other than Nineties girl band favourite – and chief cargo trouser-wearer – All Saints star Natalie Appleton, it seems appropriate that her heyday style is top of the charts once again.
Now back in the day, it would be the same pair of cargo trousers for all occasions, paired with your beat-up Converse during the day and styled with a tank top and heels for a night out. But for 2023, the erstwhile wardrobe staple is – thankfully – seeing some refinement.
Go wide-legged and relaxed for daytime cool, or opt for a tailored version for stylishly casual workwear, then look to luxe fabrics for elevated party style as dusk hits.
Much like its previous iteration, the 2023 cargo trouser is subject to a whole host of footwear pairings, from on-trend chunky boots and casual trainers to the strappy heels favoured by early Noughties era Destiny’s Child, if you really want to turn back the style clock.
And when it comes to cargo, it’s not just trousers; skirts, dresses, jackets and more are all falling for the utilitarian look. The thing to look out for? Pockets. The hallmark of the utility trend is an abundance of pockets, so this is one time where more really is more. Stylish and practical? Sign us up!
