How to Wear Cargo Pants, According to a Fashion Stylist

There comes a time in every New Englander’s life when a canvas utility pant becomes a necessary piece of your wardrobe. For me, this happened to coincide with a moment when we, as a collective, are basking in a ‘00s revival—which means I have been casually searching for a pair of cargo pants that can carry me through several seasons.

The secondhand market is usually my first stop, especially for a nostalgic piece boomeranging back into the present day. I had a few boxes I wanted my cargos to tick: baggy but long; not cropped; no cinching at the bottom; a bold statement pocket; beige or tan. I felt strongly like this could be a job for Ralph Lauren, but could not find a vintage pair in a more winter-friendly weight. I also considered Sanctuary, recalling that the brand was a cargo pant authority when I worked at a boutique in the early ‘00s during high school. (Bonus: ThredUp has a huge selection.) But none were quite exactly what I was looking for. I had to venture out into new arrivals.