9 best women’s cargo trousers for embracing this season’s must-have trend

Initially drawn in by the olive-hued khaki finish of these Urban Outfitters cargo trousers, they did not disappoint. Though oversized, the high-waisted cut of the design prevents them from being baggy to the point of unflattering. The large pockets are both a stylish and a practical touch, while the elasticated toggle on the trouser cuffs means there’s the option to wear them wide-leg or parachute-style.

Best paired with neutrals like camel trench coats and white or cream T-shirts, these cargo trousers will help you nail Noughties-inspired off-duty dressing. Best of all, they’re on sale right now for under £30.

Setting them apart from more parachute-style cargo trousers, this pair from Samsoe Samsoe are infused with the label’s Scandinavian minimalism. With their slightly cropped cut, high-waisted fit and tailored silhouette, they’re a low-key take on the Y2K trend. Detailed with multiple patch pockets and double belt loops, the linen-and-cotton-blend fabric is lightweight and comfortable. Finished in a dark chocolate-brown hue, these cargos are a staple winter trouser and will complement the rest of your wardrobe.

We love the utilitarian feel of these Abercrombie & Fitch cargo trousers. Finished in a tan colourway (they’re also available in black, khaki and white), subtle contrast stitching detailing adds texture to the design. Figure-hugging, high-waisted and straight-leg, they’re ideal for those wanting a more fitted and tailored pair.

Crafted from cotton, they’re breathable, lightweight and comfortable, while the off-white finish will inject some neutrality into your cold-weather wardrobe. Best of all, Abercrombie offers short, regular and long cuts of the trousers, so you can find the perfect pair for your height.

Topshop Tall is back and better than ever in its new home at Asos – and we love this sage pair of high-waisted cargo trousers. Perfect for taller women seeking ample length, or even those wanting more than enough length, the utility-style trousers boast a straight-leg fit, belt loops, an elasticated high-rise waist, and multiple roomy pockets.

Made from cotton, they’re a dream to wear – though we’d recommend sizing up as they come up small-to-size. Whether dressed up with a pair of loafers or styled with trainers for weekend attire, they’re an endlessly wearable take on the Y2K trend.

While California label Reformation is perhaps best known for its easy-breezy summer dresses (JLo is a fan), its jeans collection is second to none. A contemporary twist on Noughties cargo trousers, its Mckenna slouchy jeans have all the utilitarian signatures of a low-slung waist, oversized pockets and a baggy leg.

Their loose-fitting design and lightweight denim composition ensure they’re a comfortable fit, while the faded denim finish is a vintage-inspired touch. Style with a crop top and oversized jacket a la Bella Hadid, or team with a bodysuit for more coverage during the colder months.

Hailing from French It-girl brand Musier Paris, these cargo trousers inject some Parisian chic into the Noughties trend. Distinguished by their low-slung waist, patch pockets and straight-leg fit, they’re a timeless take. The polyester and viscose fabric blend is flexible and lightweight, while the baggy design ensures a comfortable fit.

Slotting seamlessly into your winter wardrobe, the light khaki finish of these utility-inspired trousers will complement dark colours as well as neutrals. Owing to their loose-fitting cut, we’d suggest sizing down if you prefer a more tailored fit. We’ll be styling with black Converse, a knit vest and a trench coat during the colder months, and a black bandeau top in summer.

Famed for that quilted green jacket, The Frankie Shop has become one of the hottest buzzwords in fashion – and its Hailey cargo trousers had us instantly smitten. The label is known for androgynous designs and oversized silhouettes, so it’s no surprise its cargo trousers are delightfully inflated.

The wide-leg cut is complemented by large pockets with equally oversized white buttons, while the fitted high waist gives the trousers their structure and shape. Crafted from crisp cotton, there are adjustable toggles on the hems for a customisable fit, while the light beige hue makes them a trouser for all-year-round wear.

If you’re looking for classic Noughties-style low-rise cargo trousers, these Free People pants tick all the boxes. Very low slung and long-length, the straight-leg pair are detailed with oversized seam pockets that afford them extra shape. Available in eight colourways, we think the black or white finishes are the most wearable, while the cotton fabric is comfortable and soft. Choose to embrace the low-rise fit and team with a crop top, or dress down the trousers with a longline jumper for everyday wear.

A unique take on the Noughties staple, Mango’s jeans retain all the cargo signatures of roomy pockets, loops, and a slightly oversized fit, yet are elevated by their sleek navy-and-white-striped finish. Lightweight, soft and comfortable thanks to the denim-style cotton fabric, we love the laidback baggy look of these trousers.

Designed to be worn low-slung, they come up slightly big-to-size (so size down if you’re looking for a more structured fit) which lends them to equally slouchy jumpers and shirts. Smart enough for the office yet sufficiently sleek for happy hour, we’ll be styling them with chunky loafers and a knit vest for a day-into-evening look.