Practically perfect: you can’t beat cargo when it comes to utility and style

If you remember them from the 90s, you will recall that they were a favourite look for girl band All Saints and Gwen Stefani. Fast forward to SS23 and cargo pants have become a staple in the wardrobes of Gigi and Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber and Rihanna. Runway highlights include Fendi’s peach satin version (translated by Zara into black satin at a fraction of the price (5, below); and Givenchy (left) where Matthew M Williams showed chic short cargo pants in khaki denim and bouclé.

Givenchy on the SS23 runway Photograph: WWD/Penske Media/Getty Images

The high street has jumped on the trend. Head to Marks & Spencer for a multitude of colours (1, below). Choose ultra-casual oversized khaki styles at Topshop and Zara, through to jean versions at Monki or be office-ready with tailored designs at Mango, whose white linen pair (4, below), looks ultra chic styled with a light blue blazer. Me and Em’s wide-leg version (£165) can be dressed up with a silk cami or down with a white T-shirt or lightweight knit. With warmer weather on the way these versatile trousers are perfect to throw in your case for holidays, styled with anything from a bikini for day to embroidered blouse, kitten heels and beaded jewellery for cocktails at sunset. & Other Stories has put its own spin on the traditional cut of combats with a straight-legged, high-waisted version (£135), while River Island’s abstract print ones, £39, look great with a cream blazer (10, below). Frankie Shop’s minimalist style with a wide-leg offers a smarter, but still slouchy look when styled with an oversized shirt (7, below). For preloved, search your local vintage, charity shops or vinted.com, try the men’s section, then cinch the waist with a plaited belt and roll up the legs, add a colourful trainer and you’re ready to go.