Modern utility wear in the form of chinos and cargo trousers has been a big trend in 2010 with many clothes shops picking up on this trend and is likely to be staying around for autumn/winter 2010.
Chinos and cargos are different, although the difference can be small. Chino is a fabric as well as a pair of trousers and is usually lighter in weight and more formal than the cargo trousers. Chinos date back to the twentieth century when they were originally worn by military personnel serving in China. Cargos became popular in the 1990s, first through Levi Strauss’s Dockers and then through designers such as Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. Cargos are khakis with lots of pockets.
Cargo trousers are more casual whilst chinos occupy that grey area between smart and casual. Proper chinos are clean, simple and flat-fronted whilst cargo trousers are rougher and have multiple pockets for carrying whatever the inhabitants of the urban jungle like to have to hand.
In 2010, cargo pants or combat trousers include a multitude of designs that are comfortable to wear as well as stylish. They have also added a little military and utilitarian flair to the summer fashions. Celebrities were seen sporting them with some of the most chic sandals and even flats. Feminine looks and utilitarian chic were blended on the catwalks and designers succeeded in creating not only practical and comfortable trousers, but also some of the must-have trousers styles of the year.
In the past, cargo trousers have been considered to be essential pieces for the military look and not that fashionable. However, that has now changed and if you want to incorporate them into your wardrobe just remember that green, grey and brown tones go best with lighter tones such as nude, beige, white and light brown. If you want a more edgy look then try pink or yellow, simply decide which style is for you. If you want a sporty look wear the trousers with pumps or gladiator sandals. For a more feminine look, pair with wedges, ankle-cuff or cutout style sandals. There is a wide range of styles to choose from, including rolled-up, skinny, shorts and harem pants. Accessories are important for creating the latest fashion trends, so make sure that you have the bags, shoes, scarves and jewellery to create your urban chic look.
