This '90s Skirt Style Is The Sophisticated New Street Style Trend To Try

Practical fashion doesn't sound particularly exciting. But, hold your skepticism for the return of this '90s-era staple: the cargo skirt. While slips and denim styles have reigned supreme in recent months, pocket-studded silhouettes of various lengths, colors, and patterns re-entered the zeitgeist of late, proving that a utilitarian comeback is at hand. But, this time around, there's a lot more polish to the look — think sleek, ankle-length iterations as opposed to belted minis.

The single most important hallmark of any cargo skirt is the presence of patch pockets. Also, typically the designs are made of a stiffer, more practical fabric, and the color palette tends to skew towards earth-tones — though not every design checks both boxes. During the most recent fashion month, it was nearly impossible to miss Prada's padded cargo skirt as it was worn by influencers, editors, and stylists alike (more on that below). But, even if you can't get your hands on that particularly popular interpretation, there are plenty of other elevated options to help you try the trend. Ahead, see a few recent examples of how to style the cargo skirt the 2019 way, and shop your favorite takes on the trend to add to your fall and winter wardrobe.

Contrast Stitching

If wearing a camo-green cargo skirt feels a bit too literal of interpretation for you, ease into the trend with a sleek, black iteration with a pop of contrast stitching. The pockets are still the focal point of the look, but the effect is versatile enough to pair with romantic separates, like a hair scarf and romantic blouse.

Classic Cargo

Embrace the cargo skirt in all its utilitarian khaki glory and try an iteration in a more traditional shade of green or brown that features a few extra pockets and belt loops. Pair with a silky button-down and strappy heels for an unexpectedly cool party look.

Pattern Play

Though you typically would associate a cargo skirt with a single shade of khaki, a fall-worthy interpretation is one in a seasonal plaid. Play with textures and style the piece with a tweed or leather jacket on top.

High Volume

For a more fashion-forward take on the trend, look for a button-front midi skirt with pockets that are a bit more subtle, or are entirely non-traditional. The dramatic silhouette is an instant winner and looks especially cool styled with a pair of white booties.

Office Attire

Though pencil skirts is usually assumed to be the best skirt to wear to the office, the cargo skirt actually works quite well for a professional environment when worn with the right separates.

Neutral Colors

When in doubt, a green cargo skirt paired with solid, neutral separates is always a safe (and stylish) bet. For the colder months ahead, wear a wintery white sweater with your cargo skirt and polish off with a structured mini bag.

Going Out

Cargo skirts and a night out on the town are two ideas that you wouldn't expect to go together but as Lisa Aiken stylishly illustrates above — they do.