Absolute icon of the 90' and 00' years: women's cargo pants make a comeback

June 26, 2023

June 26, 2023

In the vast galaxy of women's clothing, some garments have distinguished themselves for their ability to withstand the test of time and reinvent themselves, maintaining their relevance and charm through decades of fashion changes. Among these, a place of honor is reserved for women's cargo pants, a garment whose versatility and functionality combine with an unmistakable casual-chic style.

Despite their origins in contexts very different from the fashion world, cargo pants have won the hearts of women around the world, becoming an iconic garment that can adapt to any wardrobe and occasion. Born as part of military clothing and popularized through '90s pop culture, cargo pants are now more fashionable than ever, thanks in part to the craftsmanship of brands like Mason's, which has reinterpreted them in a contemporary and sophisticated way.

In this article, we will discover together the fascinating history of utility pants, from their military origins to their popularity in '90s fashion, to the modern and feminine interpretation offered by Mason's. We will guide you through the wide range of models offered by the brand, highlighting their distinctive features and suggesting how to style them to create unique and elegant looks.

What we will cover:

The history of cargo pants: military origins, '90s popularity, and evolution

Cargo pants in contemporary fashion: streetwear influence and current popularity

Mason's cargo pants: popular models and distinctive features

How to style Mason's women's cargo pants: style tips and why choose these pants

The history of cargo pants: military origins, '90s popularity, and evolution

The origin of cargo pants dates back to contexts far from the glamour of the catwalks. Born as part of the military uniform during World War II, they were loved by soldiers for their durability and functionality. Their characteristic design, with spacious side pockets, was ideal for carrying supplies and equipment in the field.

But how did they transition from the battlefield to the runway? The answer lies in the '90s, a decade characterized by great cultural and musical fervor. During that period, utility pants became a symbol of a generation that sought to break with conventions and assert their individuality.

One cannot talk about '90s cargo fashion without mentioning the Spice Girls, the famous British pop group. In particular, Mel B and Mel C were known for their love of cargo pants, which they frequently wore in their music videos and public appearances. Thanks to their influence, and iconic figures like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, these long pants became a must-have for teenage girls of the time, symbolizing a casual and rebellious look.

However, the popularity of cargo pants did not stop in the '90s. Over the decades, this garment has continued to reinvent itself, following fashion trends and adapting to style changes. Today, multi-pocket pants have a much different appearance than in the past: they are more elegant, sophisticated, and detail-oriented, while still retaining their functional and practical essence.

Cargo pants in contemporary fashion: streetwear influence and current popularity

In contemporary fashion, cargo pants have found new breath: this is largely due to the growing interest in streetwear, a trend that combines elements of casual, sportswear, and grunge fashion into a unique and distinctive mix.

Today, it is not uncommon to see models, influencers, and fashionistas wearing cargo pants, often paired with crop tops, oversized shirts, chunky sneakers, and statement accessories. This trend is evident not only on the streets but also on the runways of fashion weeks around the world, where luxury brands and emerging designers have presented their interpretation of cargo pants.

The influence of streetwear and the growing popularity of cargo pants in contemporary fashion are signs of a shift in how we perceive and interpret fashion. The boundaries between "high fashion" and "street fashion" are blurring, giving rise to a new concept of style that celebrates individuality, creativity, and functionality.

Among the brands that have best embraced this trend, Mason's stands out. This Italian brand, known for its tailoring mastery and attention to detail, has taken cargo pants and transformed them into an iconic, feminine, and sophisticated garment. Mason's women's cargo pants, available in various models, colors, and fabrics, celebrate casual elegance, perfect for women who desire a practical yet refined look.

Mason's cargo pants: popular models and distinctive features

The collection of Mason's women's cargo pants represents a perfect blend of this garment's heritage and contemporary fashion trends. Each piece in the collection is a tribute to versatility, revisited with meticulous attention to detail and tailoring that makes each piece unique.

Taking a closer look at the various models in the collection, you can observe traces of military, streetwear, and pop influence that have characterized the history of cargo pants. For example, the Judy Archivio model, made of stretch cotton, maintains the typical matte and muted color of military clothing while presenting itself as an extremely feminine and contemporary garment.

Another noteworthy model is the Birkin, a cargo pant in stretch satin embellished with studs and tailored loops. The curvy fit of this model makes it snug on the hips and soft on the legs, features suitable for every body type, ensuring unparalleled comfort.

Another notable variant that cannot be overlooked is the Fatigue Jogger model, made of parachute canvas, representing the perfect embodiment of the streetwear trend. The muted and matte color, combined with the relaxed and fresh design of the model, makes it ideal for hot summer days.

In general, these models are recognizable for several distinctive features that make them a unique piece of clothing:

Materials: Mason's uses a variety of high-quality fabrics, including cotton and nylon, tencel, stretch satin, poplin, and parachute canvas. Each fabric has its unique properties, ensuring that there is a perfect cargo pant model for every season and occasion;
Colors: Although military green and camouflage patterns are strongly associated with cargo pants, Mason's offers them in a wide range of colors. From classic white and black to bolder tones like beige, aqua green, and pink, there is a color for every style and personal preference;
Fit: Cargo pants are available in various models and fits, including regular, relaxed, and curvy. This means that regardless of your shape and style preferences, you will find a pair of cargo pants that fits you perfectly and makes you feel comfortable.

Every element, from the material to the color to the fit, is carefully considered to create a garment that not only looks exceptional but also feels incredibly comfortable and functional.

How to style Mason's cargo pants: style tips

The world of cargo pants offers a wide range of options when it comes to creating outfits. Here are some tips on how to wear Mason's cargo pants:

For a casual and everyday look, cargo pants can be paired with a simple white t-shirt or a lightweight sweater. This outfit can be completed with a pair of white sneakers or flat sandals for a fresh and comfortable look. If you're looking for a more sophisticated outfit, cargo pants can be paired with a viscose shirt or an elegant top. The Birkin model, for example, with its stretch satin fabric and studs, is perfect for an evening outfit when paired with a bright top and a pair of high heels. For a bolder look, you can choose to match cargo pants with a field jacket in the same fabric and color. This outfit, inspired by military aesthetics, is perfect for those women who love to experiment with their style and desire a bold and colorful look.