Utility styles and cargo pants are having a moment right now, so when I was in Miami, I put together a few outfits with my new PAIGE Jolie slim cargo pants to show you what to wear with cargo pants this spring.
I’m a denim girl through and through, but sometimes I want to wear a pair of casual non-denim pants for the sake of variety. That’s when I pull out olive green chinos or cargo pants.
PAIGE cargo pants (29) // WHBM tee (S) // Vince sandals (8) // J.Crew hat // Fendi sunglasses (similar for less) // bracelet // earrings // similar necklace // similar belt // NAGHEDI tote
The PAIGE Jolie is similar to the PAIGE Mayslie Joggers I’ve been wearing for years. Who remembers this cargo pants outfit from 2019? It’s one of my all-time favorites!
PAIGE Mayslie Jogger (28) // Tory Burch sandals (8) // old Boden tee // similar denim jacket
Both styles are made from the same vintage-inspired ivy green stretch fabric, but the Jolie has a higher rise and a longer inseam. It’s more of an ankle-length than a cropped pant.
I also find both styles to run a little big, and they stretch some with wear, so I recommend sizing down if in between. I have the 28 in the Mayslie, and I ordered the Jolie in both 28 and 29 to compare, but only the 29 came before my trip, so that’s what I’m wearing here. They’re a little big on me, and I think you will be able to see that. I’m keeping the size 28.
If you want a similar option for less, Evereve has the Payton Utility Pants on sale right now without the cargo pocket on the thigh, which some ladies prefer, and I just ordered these Faherty wide leg pants to try. The Wit & Wisdom Crochet Trim Utility Pants look really cute, and Gap Factory has a pair of Girlfriend Utility Khakis for under $30.
Shop these and more utility and cargo pants here:
What To Wear With Cargo Pants for Spring 2023
I’ve got a lot of posts on my blog with cargo pants outfits, but here are a few ways I’ll be wearing my cargo pants for spring 2023.
SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ and I usually wear a small in tops and dresses, a 29 in jeans, and a size 8 shoe. Gifted items are indicated by c/o; everything else I purchased myself.
White Gauze Top & Espadrille Slides
PAIGE Jolie slim cargo pants (on sale at Bloomingdale’s) // Faherty gauze top (S) (on sale at Bloomingdale’s; also at Nordstrom) // Tory Burch espadrille slides (8) (also at Nordstrom) // similar belt // earrings // bracelet // QUAY sunglasses
There’s something so effortlessly chic about a gauzy white top paired with olive green trousers, and the straw hat and espadrille slides complete the look perfectly.
This top is by Faherty, a family-owned brand known for quality, classic garments at accessible prices. It’s made of 100% organic cotton, and the henley-style placket is a nice detail.
It has short, cuffed sleeves that are sewn to stay in place for a polished look. I love the white, but it also comes in a bunch of other colors, and it’s also on sale today at Bloomingdale’s.
These sandals in the cognac/olive combo seemed like the perfect footwear solution to this outfit. The leather-trimmed jute sole adds the perfect touch of casual elegance to the outfit.
Fun Fact: The Tory Burch T Monogram is a classic pattern inspired by traditional Pennsylvania Dutch quilting. I find this particularly intriguing, since I live so close to this area. In fact, I used to enjoy quilting back in the day!
I ordered these QUAY sunglasses because I wanted to try one of the more angular styles that are trending right now.
They’re fun for a change, and I like how the brown tortoise frames complement the colors in this outfit, but I prefer my square and round frames.
Tank Top & Denim Jacket with Fashion Sneakers
PAIGE Jolie slim cargo pants (on sale at Bloomingdale’s) // denim jacket (S) // white tank (M) // P448 sneakers (38) // YSL sunglasses (similar for less) // similar belt // bracelet // similar earrings // straw tote (on sale)
For a super casual look, I love pairing olive green cargo pants with a white tank and topping it off with a denim jacket. I also have this tank in the flame color, and that would be fun with this too. (The flame and magenta colors are on sale!)
This time I cuffed the pants and wore my P448 sneakers to keep the outfit relaxed and comfortable. (That’s my room key in my pocket, in case you were wondering!)
I bought these shoes right before my trip, and I wore them on both travel days, and I didn’t have any issues with blisters or soreness. They are such comfortable, well-made sneakers!
Yes, they’re spendy, but as much as I wear them, they’re worth it to me. You can see more of my thoughts about that in my post, Are P448 Sneakers Worth It?
I was drawn to this pair for the clean white leather with textured details, and the subtle silver tipped tongue and gold tab on the heel. They’re perfect for summer, and they’ll go with everything!
A denim jacket is the perfect topper to this casual cargo pants outfit. This one is slightly oversized without looking sloppy, which plays into the current trends.
Also, I found a bunch of designer sunglasses at Saks OFF 5TH for a steal! They have lots of YSL, as well as some Gucci and Prada and other designer brands.
Stripe Button-Up Shirt & Sandals
PAIGE Jolie slim cargo pants (on sale at Bloomingdale’s) // Caslon linen blend button-up shirt (M) // Sam Edelman slides (8.5) (also at Bloomies & Zappos) // similar belt // bracelet
I have no idea why we didn’t get more shots of this look, but I only have two pictures. This time, I topped off my olive green cargo pants with a stripe button-up shirt and finished the look with brown slide sandals.
I picked up these Sam Edelman slides on a whim when I was shopping at Nordstrom the day before I left for Miami. I wanted a metallic (and they do come in a metallic) but they didn’t have my size, so I went with the light brown, which worked out just fine. I actually like this shade quite a lot.
The woven upper is soft and comfortable and just a bit stretchy, so they stay on easily when I walk, and the sole has some nice cushion to it as well. They’re very comfortable for a slide.
Stripes and tailored button-up shirts are having a moment right now, and this linen blend button-up by Caslon combines the best of both worlds! I did need to size up to a medium, though, so keep that in mind if ordering.
I love how the stripes pick up on the green in the pants, but this shirt also comes in a solid Flax color, if you prefer. That would also look nice with these pants.
And my brown belt is sold out, but I think it adds an important finishing touch that pulls the outfit together. This one is a nice option, and it comes with gold or silver hardware.
Black Top & Wedge Sandals
PAIGE Jolie slim cargo pants (on sale at Bloomingdale’s) // WHBM tee (S) // Vince wedge sandals (8) (also at Bloomingdale’s & Saks) // straw hat // Fendi sunglasses (similar for less) // bracelet // earrings // similar necklace // similar belt // NAGHEDI tote (on sale at Bloomgindales)
My final look is a simple black and olive outfit. I probably wear black with my olive green pants more than any other color. I just think it’s such a pleasing color combination.
This top is from White House Black Market, and I like it so much I also got it in the coral, which seems to be no longer available online. It comes in tons of colors, and it’s a really nice beyond basic t-shirt in a polished rayon/spandex blend.
You can easily dress it up or down, and it layers nicely under jackets but stands on its own beautifully due to the detail at the neckline and sleeves.
This time I wanted to level up the look, so I wore wedge mule sandals and carried my NAGHEDI woven tote. I love this tote for summer; mine is the Onyx.
These luxe wedge sandals by Vince were another last minute purchase at Nordstrom right before my trip, and they’re currently 25% off! I was drawn to the sculptural stacked wedge heel, and when I slipped them on my feet, the leather strap was so incredibly soft and comfortable.
Slides are always iffy for my flat feet, and I’ve had trouble with Vince slides in the past, but these stay on just fine. I found them very comfortable to walk around in, and I wore them with several outfits on my trip. I have a feeling I’m going to be wearing them a ton this spring and summer.
I’m wearing my Fendi sunglasses with the large round black plastic frames with this look (similar here), and I decided to go ahead and wear the straw hat to add another summery accessory.
More Ways to Style Cargo Pants
Of course, there are many more ways to style cargo pants than I’ve shown here. See more ways to wear cargo pants for spring:
Stay In Touch
If you liked this post, be sure you’re signed up for my email newsletter. In addition to my most recent blog posts, you’ll receive exclusive newsletter content like special sales, my newest favorite finds, and an occasional peek behind the scenes — all delivered right to your inbox.
I would also love for you to join my JLS Fashion Insiders Facebook Group! This is a friendly place to discuss all matters of fashion and style with other women, share your outfits, get advice, and stay up to date on all the happenings in our community.
This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!
photos: Alison Cornell
52 Responses
Love these looks. I’m travelling to Myrtle Beach in May and even though we are driving from Canada so space isn’t an issue I’m going to TRY to pack minimally as a practice run before our 15 day trip to Germany this summer. All that to say I’m going to switch out my white jeans for my olive cargos with a few different tops to get more wear and less.suitcase space (white jeans are often an only 1x wear). Thanks for the inspiration for combos.
The Faherty gauze top is cute but it doesn’t qualify for the promotion at Bloomingdale’s because it’s just under $100. Ordering it anyway!
Love every single outfit! I am pinning this post! Have a great week😊
I love the cargo with the denim jacket and also the one with the black tee. But that gauze top is also calling my name. Thanks for all the inspiration.
Perfect timing for this post… I just received a pair of olive green cargo pants I ordered from Old Navy to try ( I didn’t want to pay a lot as I’m not sure how much I’ll wear them or how long this trend will be here) I need to play around with footwear to see what looks best and this post will definitely help. My question is ,..Is there a right or wrong spot for the cargo pockets to hit on our legs?
I love your ring(the one on the middle finger of your right hand)! where is it from?
It’s a David Yurman, and I think it sold out. It’s about 5 years old.
I would like to order the Faherty gauze top. Does it run big? I am sometimes a small or extra small and not sure what size to order. Any advice?
Hm, I guess it’s cut generously, but I’m not sure I’d say it runs big. I think it’s pretty true to size.
I ordered the Faherty gauze top in medium and large. I have broad shoulders and large bust. The medium was too small and large was too big. I loved it, so gave one to my daughter instead of returning. It is so soft and just hugs you!
Sorry it didn’t work out for you, but lucky daughter! 🙂
Thanks for the inspriation, olive bottoms and black or white tops are a go-to for me, whether it is shorts or pants in sprint/summer. I’m so glad I kept my pair of olive pull on jeans. I didn’t wear them last year because I was still mainly WFH but remembered how frequently I wore them in the before times to the office always with a black or white top and either a cardigan or jean jacket as a layer. I’ll be pulling these back out for spring to see if they still look current and to make sure they still fit. Great post!
Super cute outfits!! I bought a pair of olive joggers and can see making similar outfits. Thanks for the inspo!
I think I’m going to sit this trend out. Something just looks off to me with a leg pocket & straight full length hemmed pant leg.
I’m going to try the Tory Burch sandals. It will be fun to get a fresh pair to start spring. Now to get our two feet of snow to melt. 😏
I’m jealous. I want snow! We haven’t had any this year. 🙁
I love olive cargo pants and they have been my go-to if I want something that’s casual, but not jeans. (I wore that 2019 cargo outfit pictured above on repeat!) Once it starts to warm up, I find I lean toward the cargos because they are lighter in weight than jeans. I have the terry pair coming from Evereve today though I also have my eye on the Paige. I wore my Paige joggers a ton but donated them when I moved last year because the one thing I never loved was the jogger “hem”. Question on the WHBM black top, Jo-Lynne. Did you find the fabric warm or clingy in the warmer climate? I tried on the tee in the store but worried the fabric might not work well when it gets warm. It seems like synthetic fabrics fall into 2 categories– either they are great in hot weather or terrible. I ordered the Caslon striped top and I should have ordered up because it was too tight on my biceps!
It wasn’t super hot while we were there, but I was very comfortable in it. I wore it to dinner one night with white jeans.
I love olive as a navy or black alternative. I don’t usually wear in winter. I like olive as another neutral. I have a light pink, light aqua, and a melon color t-shirt I wear with my cargo pants. I top it with a light denim jacket. There are lots of colors to pair them with.
There definitely are a lot more options than those shown here. 🙂
All of these outfits look great on you. You really touched on the perfect pieces to wear with this pants. I know you’re not usually a button down person but that shirt is perfection. The vertical stripes in a cool color palette along with the right fit (not too oversized!). I have a pair of olive joggers and you’ve inspired me to wear them with something besides a black t shirt.
Yeah, I’m slowly warming up to the button-up shirts. 🙂
Just love the Pennsylvania Dutch quilting fun fact! My grandpa was raised in a Pennsylvania Dutch household although they had moved on to Illinois. Must get these TB sandals now.
Oh, that is so interesting!
I like all the ways you styled the olive cargo, but my favorite is probably with the black. I have the Paige Mayslies and am looking forward to wearing them as it warms up. You are making me excited for spring, although in Indiana, this has been possibly our most mild winter ever!
Our PA winter has been mild too. I hope that doesn’t mean we have a cold spring.
Wow!!! This is one of the best put together post. The photos where you shot are perfect and you look great in all the outfit combos. This was a good post for me as I have a pair of cargo type pants in similiar color that I just don’t reach for. I sometimes wear navy or muted pink with this color too. I like the stripe shirt you added in your post. Nice job Jo- Lynne.
Yes, I also like navy and pink (also orange and coral) with olive. I didn’t even realize I did all neutral looks until I got my photos back, lol! So many possibilities… I also love black and white or navy and white stripes with olive.
Awww yes, I do the black and white stripes with olive too. I think its good you did more neutrals in your post, as it looks updated. I think the navy, pink and black and white stripe is more what we’ve seen before. I loved your post.
I love this post and have worn these combinations many times. I follow several bloggers, including Cyndi, Tania and Jennifer, among others. Your style 100% resonates with me, love it! Quick question, is the Faherty shirt see through? I can’t tell if you are wearing a cami with it!
Hey Dottie! They are all lovely, and I love that we each have our own unique style. 🙂 It is slightly sheer, but it isn’t super thin, if that makes sense. I do not wear a cami underneath.
Love these outfits!! I wear olive green bottoms regularly in the spring/summer, often with navy or pink tops. Instead of buying the Paige cargos last year, I found a great pair of cargos at Banana Republic in a soft grey. They were a better price point and looked awesome with black/dark grey t’s and of course white and pink. Thanks for all the inspiration Jo-Lynne ❤️
I too love to wear navy and pink with my olive bottoms!
Yes, I like navy and pink with olive, as well. I wish I’d thought to shoot them with that pink rails button-up or the coral WHBM tee. I had both with me. 🙂
I am in awe with how many outfits you created with the same olive green cargo pants! And all of them look so nice. I must start using my brain more to create various outfits with one pair of pants. Thank you!
Thanks for all these styling ideas. I love anything olive green. I ordered the Gap utility pants that you linked on the day you had a Gap post. They are one of my favorites pants and will get a lot of wear. I want them in other colors but green is the only color in petite. I’m going to read the other posts on utility pants to get more ideas.
Also I would like to see a button shirt from a back view in your photos so I can figure out how to style mine.
Yeah, I should have shot that. Will try to do that next time.
I’m intrigued by how nice black and olive go together. I’m going to experiment with that!
Hi, I’m wondering about the length of the calson striped shirt on someone who is 5’ 3” – I would do a full tuck – do you think it would be too much fabric? Also, does the shirt need ironing (too lazy for that!)
I think it should be fine, I’m only 5’5″ and short waisted. I think I gave it a steam before I packed it, but I didn’t need to iron it when I got there… although I didn’t iron anything, lol! But it is definitely better about staying wrinkle-free than the Rails button-ups.
I’m pleased to see you style these olive cargo pants because I have them too and this gives me some styling ideas. I sized down 2 sizes because I don’t like my pants too loose around my waist. I just can’t wait for warmer spring weather in VA so I can wear the pants with sandals and espadrilles, my favorite footwear!
Me too! I was just in my room, looking wistfully at all my summer sandals, thinking I cannot WAIT to start wearing them on the daily. My favorite footwear, and my favorite time of year.
These outfits are all fantastic. My favorite is the white shirt with the slide sandals. It’s an outfit of basics but they are all elevated and just feel so fresh!
The one thing that bothers me about my mayslie joggers is the back flap pockets don’t always stay down. Do the cargos have similar flap pockets? It’s hard to tell from the pictures. In the Bloomingdales shots it almost looks like the model is holding one down with her hand 🙂
The back pockets on the Jolie do not have flaps, which you can see clearly on both sites, so I think you mean the ones on the thighs? I did not have an issue with them flipping up or anything, but I haven’t washed them yet. When I wash the Mayslie, I lay them flat to dry, and I use my hands to smooth down the flaps on the back pockets, so they dry nicely. I will probably do that with the Jolie too.
I love all of these outfits! So casual and comfy, yet still pulled together. Nice to see other casual options besides jeans and athleasure. (Both of which I I live in😆)
I bought a pair of dark camel colored cargo pants from Banana Republic a few weeks ago and I think they could sub in for all of these looks here! (I kinda still want a green pair now 🤦🏻♀️)
Thanks for the outfit inspiration yet again!! Love your posts!
Oh, yes, that totally works too!
I love every single look! I have these pants but am waiting for my smaller size to come in — they do run a tag big — will try the smaller size and decide which to keep. I am excited to replace my Paige Mayslie that I wore so much I literally wore them out and the fabric ripped. Thank you for all the work you do!
So glad you like them!
I loved this post! Olive green cargo or utility pants have been a spring/summer go-to for me for a few years now. In the shopping widget there is a pair that says “Gap Factory” and the link does go to the Gap Factory pair you mentioned but they aren’t the ones in the widget picture. Do you know the link for the ones pictured? I like that they have no leg pockets and are a slightly wider leg. Thanks!
Yeah I don’t know why the picture is showing a different model than the ones on the website, but they’re the same pants. They both have leg pockets, although they do appear slightly wider in the picture in the shopping widget. I think it’s how she’s standing.