Cargo pants aren't just for outdoors.
Cargo pants were originally created for people who enjoy spending time outdoors and needs pockets to carry equipment such as Swiss army knives, canteens and flashlights. As cargo pants have become more of a fashion trend, you can dress them up to make them appropriate for the workplace. To incorporate cargo pants into a professional ensemble, pair the pants with clothes that are traditionally worn in an office setting.
Instructions
1. Choose a skinny or straight leg cut. Don't add the casual look of cargo pants with a relaxed fit. Men and women should choose a streamlined leg. Also, wear ankle-length pants. Men should avoid wearing shorts, and women should avoid wearing Capris. Of course, be sure that your pants fit properly.
2. Dress up the pants with office-friendly shoes. Women should wear high-heeled pumps or dressy ballet flats. Avoid casual-looking sandals and espadrilles. Men should also wear loafers or oxfords -- no sneakers or work boots.
3. Choose office-friendly fabric and color. Choose a cotton jersey or polyester fabric instead of twill or khaki. Choose a fabric that can be steamed or ironed so that your fabric is neat and pressed. Particularly for ladies, choose pants in a neutral color like black, gray, navy, brown or olive. Don't draw even more attention to your pants by choosing purple or red. Camouflage print is never appropriate for the workplace -- unless you work in the military.
4. Wear a professional shirt or blouse. Men can wear a button-down shirt combined with a sweater with fitted cargo pants to create a professional look. Beware when wearing a Henley or polo shirt that you can look too casual for the office. A woman has flexibility with the type of top she wears. Wear a feminine blouse that you could also pair with a skirt in the office. As always, avoid tops that are too tight or show too much cleavage.
5. Include outerwear as part of your ensemble. As a common rule, men don't pair a sport coat with a pair of cargo pants. If decide to break the rules, be aware that if the hem of your jacket is too close to the pockets on your pants you create a look that is bulky and unflattering. Choose a short coat along with pants with low side pockets. Both men and women can wear a vest or cardigan with cargo pants. Women can pair a cropped jacket with cargo pants to make the look more professional. Pair with a blouse and pumps to complete the look.
6. Use accessories to dress up your clothing. Draw attention away from your cargo pants with unique accessories. Men and women can wear an elegant silk scarf to dress up the cargo. Choose interesting or eye-catching jewelry. You can also upgrade your look with a professional looking briefcase or attach .
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