M&S’s Cargo Trousers Are the Chicest I’ve Seen—4 Ways I’ll Wear Them

I can't lie—it took me a while to get on board with the cargo-trouser revival. As a fashion editor, I certainly appreciate the throwback appeal of it all and, naturally, have felt it important to relay the trend to you, given how prevalent it has been over the past few months. However, as for buying into it myself, I've managed to resist—that is, up until now. 

I tried on a few pairs of cargo trousers, ranging everywhere from Zara to H&M all the way up Frame. However, none of them felt all that chic on me and I had given up hope of finding a cargo that could change my mind. Then, along came Marks & Spencer's cargo trousers which are, hands down, the most elevated pair I've seen on the high street. Available in sizes UK 6-24 and in petite, regular and long lengths, it's also one of the most inclusive cargo-trouser options too. 

In place of a thick starched cotton, Marks & Spencer's cargos are made from a soft woven material—akin to the sort you find on more formal tailoring—which drapes beautifully. The high waistline and wide-leg silhouette ensure a sophisticated finish. In tandem, the brand has also honed an expensive-looking colour palette. While there's no olive or khaki, there are three other versatile colours to choose from, black, navy and cream, all of which contribute to the trousers expensive-looking aesthetic. Of course, the cargo's signature patch pockets are in situ on the lower thigh, bestowing the trouser with a casual cool edge that otherwise it would be missing.

If you're anything like me and have been waiting for the right time to jump on the cargo trouser trend, consider this a sign to do so. I've taken my favourite pair of Marks & Spencer cargo trousers—the cream—and have styled them up with other brilliant M&S buys to come up with four effortless autumn outfits. Scroll on to see and shop them, and to see the M&S cargo trousers in every colourway. 

Shop Marks & Spencer's Cargo Trousers In Every Colour

See How I'll Style My Marks & Spencer Trousers

1. Leather Blazer + Vest Top + Cargo Trousers + Sandals

Style Notes: Give your cargos an evening spin with the addition of a blazer—I'm into this leather option—and strappy sandals. 

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2. Oxford Shirt + Shoulder Bag + Cargo Trousers + Slingback Shoes

Style Notes: Amplify the relaxed aesthetic of these trousers with an Oxford shirt (I'd leave mine untucked) and some elevated accessories. 

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3. Cardigan + Scarf + Cargo Trousers + Heeled Boots

Style Notes: Matching your scarf to your knitwear is going to be a huge trend this season, so why not tackle it with cargo trousers in tandem? 

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4. Padded Jacket + Stripe Jumper + Cargo Trousers + Loafers

Style Notes: Whether you're running errands or heading to brunch, this combination of a striped knit, cargos and loafers will become one of your most reliable throw-ons. 

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Next Up: The Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends That Really Matter