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8 Cargo Pants for Women over 50

By Sandra Roussy June 24, 2024 Beauty

Cargo pants have made a stylish comeback, proving that functionality can seamlessly blend with fashion. They offer the perfect balance of comfort and utility. 

I always keep cargo pants in my wardrobe, regardless of current trends. They are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. In this article, you’ll find styling tips to help inspire different outfits, all featuring cargo pants as the foundation.

Here are eight fantastic options that cater to various tastes and needs.

  1. Slim-Fit Cargo Pants – Banana Republic Tapered Cargo Pant – These offer a sleeker silhouette without compromising on the practical aspects of traditional cargo pants.
  2. Convertible Cargo Pants – Columbia Women’s Silver Ridge Convertible – Ideal for travel and outdoor adventures, convertible cargo pants can be transformed into shorts with a simple zip-off feature.
  3. Fashion-Forward Cargo Pants – Free People Riley Vintage Pieces Of The Storm Cargo Pants – These cargo pants offer a vintage-inspired design with a relaxed fit and unique detailing.
  4. Traditional Cargo Pants – J.Crew Cargo pant in ripstop cotton – These traditional cargo pants feature durable ripstop cotton and a relaxed fit, perfect for versatile wear.
  5. Lightweight Cargo Pants – Madewell High-Rise Straight Cargo Trousers in Satin – Perfect for warmer climates or active days, lightweight cargo pants offer breathability and comfort. 

Continue reading to discover more types of cargo pants for women. 

Cargo Pants for Women

Cargo pants are no longer just utilitarian garments; they have evolved into a stylish wardrobe essential that offers endless possibilities for any occasion. Whether you prefer a classic, modern, or trendy look, there’s a pair of cargo pants out there to suit your style and needs.

Slim-Fit Cargo Pants – Banana Republic Tapered Cargo Pant

Slim-Fit Cargo Pants - Banana Republic Tapered Cargo Pant

For those who prefer a more tailored look, slim-fit cargo pants are an excellent choice. They offer a sleeker silhouette without compromising on the practical aspects of traditional cargo pants.

Features: Slim fit, stretch fabric, discreet cargo pockets

Perfect For: Smart casual outfits, city wear

Convertible Cargo Pants – Columbia Women’s Silver Ridge Convertible 

Convertible Cargo Pants - Columbia Women's Silver Ridge Convertible 

Ideal for travel and outdoor adventures, convertible cargo pants can be transformed into shorts with a simple zip-off feature. They provide versatility for changing weather conditions and active lifestyles.

Features: Zip-off legs, quick-dry fabric, multiple pockets

Perfect For: Hiking, travel, outdoor activities

Fashion-Forward Cargo Pants – Free People Riley Vintage Pieces of the Storm Cargo Pants

Fashion-Forward Cargo Pants - Free People Riley Vintage Pieces Of The Storm Cargo Pants

These cargo pants offer a vintage-inspired design with a relaxed fit and unique detailing. They feature multiple cargo pockets, a button fly, and adjustable waist tabs for a customized fit.

Features: Vintage wash, multiple cargo pockets, unique design

Perfect For: Casual outings, trendy street style, relaxed weekends

Traditional Cargo Pants – J.Crew Cargo Pants in Ripstop Cotton

Traditional Cargo Pants - J.Crew Cargo pants in ripstop cotton

These traditional cargo pants feature durable ripstop cotton and a relaxed fit, perfect for versatile wear. They include large utility pockets and a zip fly with button closure.

Features: Ripstop cotton, large utility pockets

Perfect For: Outdoor activities, casual wear, travel

Lightweight Cargo Pants – Madewell High-Rise Straight Cargo Trousers in Satin

Lightweight Cargo Pants - Madewell High-Rise Straight Cargo Trousers in Satin

Lightweight cargo pants, typically made from lighter fabrics like linen or satin, are perfect for warmer climates. They offer breathability and comfort.

Features: Lightweight fabric, relaxed fit, multiple pockets

Perfect For: Summer wear, travel, casual outings

Camo Cargo Pants – SANCTUARY Reissue Camouflage Cargo Pants at Macy’s

Camo Cargo Pants - SANCTUARY Reissue Camouflage Cargo Pants at Macy’s

Camo cargo pants bring a rugged, adventurous vibe to your wardrobe. They are perfect for making a bold statement while enjoying the functionality of traditional cargo pants.

Features: Camouflage print, durable fabric, multiple pockets

Perfect For: Outdoor activities, edgy fashion

Cargo Leggings – ATG BY WRANGLER™ CARGO LEGGINGS

Cargo Leggings - ATG BY WRANGLER™ CARGO LEGGINGS

For a more form-fitting option, cargo leggings blend the practicality of cargo pants with the comfort of leggings. They offer stretch and style, suitable for both active and casual wear.

Features: Stretch fabric, cargo pockets, fitted design

Perfect For: Gym, casual outings, athleisure

High-Waisted Cargo Chic Cargo Pants – DKNY Straight Leg Crepe Cargo Pants at Macy’s

High-Waisted Cargo Chic Cargo Pants – DKNY Straight Leg Crepe Cargo Pants at Macy’s

These high-waisted cargo pants feature a sleek, straight-leg design made from lightweight crepe fabric, blending elegance with practicality. The pants come with side cargo pockets and a smooth front for a refined look.

Features: High-waisted, straight-leg design, lightweight crepe fabric, side cargo pockets

Perfect For: Office wear, smart casual outfits, evening events

Cargo Pants Styling Tips

Cargo pants are incredibly versatile and can be styled in numerous ways:

  • Casual Chic: Pair with a simple t-shirt and sneakers for a laid-back look.
  • Smart Casual: Combine with a blouse and loafers for a more polished outfit.
  • Outdoor Ready: Match with a tank top and hiking boots for an adventure-ready ensemble.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you wear cargo pants? How do you like to style them? Which brand of cargo pants is your favorite? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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Marta

Cargo pants are a staple in my closet. I have probably about a dozen pairs, different shades, different thicknesses. I don’t go looking for them, I just usually happen to find them. They’re particularly greaty when you wanna travel sans purse. Put a great belt to them and you will always rock!

Jani

We older gals are on a strict budgeted retirement not fluent in money for clothes!

Emily Hanlon

Hi Everyone, I hope you are all having a good day 💗 I’m a young 64, 65 in September 😄 year old outgoing lady from Dublin ireland. I really enjoyed reading your colum with regard to your tribe. It brings back a lot of memories of friends iv had over the years, some still with me, others have gone their own way. I live on my own so still work full time, which I enjoy. I’m also finding that iv no very close friends, ones that I can call upon. Isn’t it a strange place to be in, I’m looking for my tribe, but can seem to find them. 🙃 I solo travel and find I meet great people and can also have great fun on my own, for someone that couldn’t go anywhere on her own I truly cherish my trips. I meet like minded people when away, but am finding it difficult when I’m home. I think iv moved into a lazy place as I used to go walking with a group, the group fell apart after one of the ladies lost her life. I’m very outgoing, but when I come home from work I seem to want to just cocoon. Would love some of your tips on my motivation, to find my tribe and get back out there. Keep up the great work, love your emails every week, Emily

Lisa Stege

Sorry, I really don’t get cargo pants. I don’t like them on men, either. When they put things in the pockets, it is so unsightly! Would you actually be using the pockets? It would completely spoil the look of the pants. The only use for them, in my opinion, is for actual use when hiking or an equivalent activity.

Jacquelyn D Harris

For senior women, on fixed incomes, these pants are pretty expensive! However, I found similar ones on Amazon. They are really cute and gave me an idea of what to look for.

Jani

Ditto sister

The Author

Sandra is a writer, traveler, and former fashion designer who made a bold midlife pivot to pursue her creative passions. After two decades designing collections for brands like La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she let go of her possessions and reimagined her life on her own terms. Her personal essay about love, loss, and facing fears was hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert and featured in the New York Times bestselling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com.

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