Fashionable Pairings: What To Wear With Khaki Cargo Shorts

Khaki cargo shorts are a wardrobe staple known for their versatility and comfort. Whether you're gearing up for a casual day out, a beach excursion, or even a smart-casual event, these shorts can be dressed up or down to suit various occasions. Here are some stylish outfit ideas to help you rock your khaki cargo shorts with confidence.

1. Casual Summer Vibes:

For a relaxed and breezy summer look, pair your khaki cargo shorts with a solid-colored, lightweight t-shirt. Opt for a complementary shade that enhances the khaki tone. To elevate the outfit, consider adding a woven belt that adds a touch of texture. Complete the look with comfortable sneakers or casual sandals. This ensemble is perfect for picnics, strolls, and laid-back gatherings.

2. Sporty and Active:

When aiming for an active and sporty appearance, choose a moisture-wicking or athletic performance shirt to team up with your cargo shorts. Opt for sneakers or running shoes that align with your chosen color palette. Don't forget to incorporate a sporty hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun. Whether you're hitting the trails or engaging in outdoor activities, this outfit keeps you stylishly geared up.

3. Elevating Smart-Casual:

To master the art of smart-casual dressing, combine your khaki cargo shorts with a well-fitted, casual collared shirt. This can be a polo shirt or a button-up shirt with rolled-up sleeves. Choose loafers or clean white sneakers to give the outfit a polished touch. Enhance the overall look by adding a leather or woven belt – a detail that exudes sophistication while maintaining comfort.

4. Beachy and Relaxed:

For a day by the beach or poolside lounging, team your khaki cargo shorts with a laid-back tank top or a playful graphic tee. Slip into comfortable flip-flops or sandals that can handle sandy shores. Accessorize with sunglasses and a stylish hat to shield yourself from the sun's rays. This ensemble is the embodiment of effortless relaxation, ideal for soaking in the sun and sea breeze.

Beachy and Relaxed

5. Transitioning to Fall:

As the weather cools down, layering becomes key. Pair your khaki cargo shorts with a lightweight jacket or a cozy hoodie over a casual t-shirt. Consider ankle boots or desert boots for a stylish yet comfortable footwear choice. Top off the look with a beanie or cap to add warmth and a touch of urban flair to your ensemble.

Transitioning to Fall

6. Classic Preppy Appeal:

For a touch of preppy sophistication, marry your khaki cargo shorts with a well-fitted polo shirt. This combination strikes a balance between casual and refined. Choose boat shoes or loafers for footwear, adding an extra touch of class. A braided or leather belt can tie the look together, embodying timeless charm.

Classic Preppy Appeal

When styling khaki cargo shorts, remember that personal style and the occasion should guide your choices. By experimenting with different tops, accessories, and footwear, you can create a multitude of looks that seamlessly incorporate these versatile shorts into your wardrobe. Elevate comfort to a new level of style and make a statement with your fashion choices. 

7. Urban Street Style:

To embrace an urban aesthetic, pair your khaki cargo shorts with a graphic or printed t-shirt that resonates with your personal style. Layer on a light denim jacket or a bomber jacket for an edgy touch. Complete the look with sneakers that have a streetwear flair. Consider adding a beanie or snapback cap to enhance the urban vibe of the outfit.

Urban Street Style

8. Adventure-Ready Attire:

If you're gearing up for outdoor adventures, combine your khaki cargo shorts with a rugged utility or field jacket. Opt for a long-sleeve shirt or a Henley underneath for added layering. Lace-up hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes are excellent choices for footwear. Don't forget a versatile backpack to carry your essentials as you explore the great outdoors.

Adventure-Ready Attire

9. Nautical Nod:

Capture the essence of maritime style by pairing your khaki cargo shorts with a striped, Breton-inspired shirt. This classic combo exudes a fresh and maritime charm. Consider slipping into boat shoes or espadrilles to channel a seaside vibe. Accessories like a woven belt and a sailor's cap can further enhance the nautical theme.

Nautical Nod

10. Monochrome Modernity:

For a contemporary and monochromatic look, opt for a black or gray t-shirt with your khaki cargo shorts. This minimalist approach allows the shorts to stand out while maintaining an understated aesthetic. Complete the ensemble with sleek, white sneakers for a clean and polished appearance.

Monochrome Modernity

11. Music Festival Vibe:

Embrace a carefree and bohemian aesthetic by pairing your khaki cargo shorts with a flowy, patterned button-up shirt. Roll up the sleeves for an effortless touch. Add a touch of flair with a wide-brimmed hat and round-frame sunglasses. Complete the look with comfortable sandals or suede ankle boots.

Music Festival Vibe

12. Vintage-Inspired Look:

Channel retro vibes by teaming up your khaki cargo shorts with a vintage band t-shirt or a worn-in graphic tee. Layer a denim jacket over the top to achieve that throwback appeal. High-top sneakers or vintage-inspired sneakers work well with this outfit. Consider adding a few retro accessories, like a chain necklace or retro sunglasses.

Vintage-Inspired Look

Khaki cargo shorts are a canvas waiting to be styled in diverse ways. Let your creativity shine as you mix and match different tops, footwear, and accessories to create outfits that reflect your personality and the occasion. From casual hangouts to more formal events, these shorts can adapt to various settings while keeping you comfortable and stylish.

13. Business Casual Blend:

For a business casual twist, pair your khaki cargo shorts with a crisp button-down shirt. Tuck in the shirt for a polished appearance and add a sleek belt to tie the outfit together. Opt for loafers or oxford shoes for a sophisticated touch. This unexpected pairing bridges the gap between professionalism and comfort.

Business Casual Blend

14. Boho-Chic Ensemble:

Create a bohemian-inspired look by combining your khaki cargo shorts with a flowy, off-the-shoulder blouse. Choose earthy tones and vibrant patterns for a truly boho feel. Accessorize with layered necklaces, bangles, and ankle boots to complete the free-spirited look.

Boho-Chic Ensemble

15. Modern Minimalism:

For a sleek and modern outfit, pair your khaki cargo shorts with a tailored, solid-colored button-up shirt. Keep the colors muted and sophisticated for a minimalist touch. Slip into loafers or sleek sneakers, and consider adding a slim leather belt to maintain the refined aesthetic.

Modern Minimalism

16. Effortless Grunge:

Infuse a touch of grunge into your outfit by pairing your khaki cargo shorts with a distressed band t-shirt. Layer on a flannel shirt or an oversized cardigan for a relaxed yet edgy appeal. Complete the look with combat boots or chunky sneakers, and don't be afraid to experiment with layered accessories.

Effortless Grunge

17. Artistic Expression:

Unleash your creativity with an artistic ensemble that pairs your khaki cargo shorts with a colorful, abstract-patterned shirt. Choose vibrant shades that resonate with your personality. Add canvas sneakers or slip-on shoes for comfort and artistic flair. This outfit showcases your unique style and appreciation for self-expression.

Artistic Expression

18. Elegantly Relaxed:

Elevate relaxation with an elegant touch by combining your khaki cargo shorts with a lightweight, flowing blouse. Opt for soft fabrics and neutral colors for a harmonious look. Slide into delicate sandals or espadrilles to complete the ensemble. This outfit strikes the balance between comfort and sophistication.

Elegantly Relaxed

19. Timeless Denim Duo:

Pair your khaki cargo shorts with a classic denim shirt for a timeless combination. The earthy tones of the shorts complement the blue denim, creating a harmonious blend. Roll up the sleeves and tuck in the shirt for a polished appearance. Finish the look with white sneakers or casual loafers.

20. Edgy and Layered:

Create an edgy look by layering a graphic hoodie over a basic t-shirt with your khaki cargo shorts. The hood and the graphics add a rebellious touch to the outfit. Complete the look with high-top sneakers or chunky boots. This ensemble exudes a confident and edgy vibe.

Edgy and Layered

Whether you're seeking a classic, contemporary, or alternative style, khaki cargo shorts can serve as the foundation for a multitude of outfits. Experiment with various combinations to showcase your personality, adapt to different occasions, and showcase your unique sense of style. With the right tops, footwear, and accessories, these versatile shorts can be a centerpiece of your wardrobe.

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How to Choose Best Khaki Cargo Shorts for Men

 Khaki shorts for men have long been an American staple. Made from sturdy cloth and featuring neutral colors, they are strong enough to wear in the yard yet can be stylish enough to wear for a casual night on the town. Khaki shorts for guys will have a cuff line right at the knee level or just above it. They can feature pockets along the sides in a style known as cargo shorts; these pockets are usually the difference between a dressier short or a more casual style. The material that is used in a pair of classic khaki shorts is heavier twilled cotton, although the term khaki is also used to describe the short’s color or their style as well; khaki is available in any tint from dark yellow to dark tan or brownish colors.

Most men’s stores will carry an extensive selection of khaki or cargo shorts for men in a wide variety of colors, materials and styles. For a casual look, stores such as Wal Mart are a less expensive option while a store like Macy’s offers a bigger selection of dressier long khaki shorts for men.

Here is a brief list of common retailers that carry quality khaki shorts, and some of the popular brands they feature:

•Aeropostale:This higher end retailer features its own self-named brands of clothing. Cargo shorts range from $35, but with clearance sales you can get them as low as $13 a pair.

•Old Navy For MenAlso featuring its own brand names, Old Navy features quality clothing at lower prices. Men’s cargo or khaki shorts are between $13 and $20.

•KohlsKohl’s is a lower priced store and features a large selection with brand names like Chaps, Sonoma, Lee, Haggar, Levi’s and Dockers. Depending on which brand you choose, these prices can be from $14 to $65.

•Hollister For MenWith brand names such as Embarcadero, Bay Shore and their own Hollister brand, this online shop has khaki and cargo shorts starting at $25.

•Target: Target offers good quality clothes at modest prices. Their selection of khaki or cargo shorts includes dENiZEN, a Levis’s brand of clothing, as well as Mossimo, Champion, Merona and Dickie’s for men starting at $13 and ranging upwards to $25.

•JCPenney: JCPenney is a name synonymous with affordability, selection and high quality. Izod, St. John’s Bay, Arizona and Lee are just some of the brands of cargo and khaki shorts offered by JCPenney. Prices range from $20 to $50 dependent on the brands chosen.

Choosing men khaki shorts can be a bit confusing. With so many styles to choose from, it can be difficult to choose the best shorts. Keep the following things in mind while shopping for cargo shorts to choose the best pair for your needs.

1. Where will you be wearing the shorts? If you like the casual style of shorts but will be wearing them out, go for a longer length with no pockets on the sides. Wear a neutral belt and a polo shirt to complete the look.

2. Length of the shorts definitely matters. Shorts that are too short are not stylish, while those that are too long can look awkward. Aim for a length that goes just above or at the level of the knee.

3. Shoe selection can complete the look you want. White tennis shoes are not always a good choice for khakis, especially not if you are trying to achieve a dressier look. Loafers with or without socks are a good choice of shoe to wear with khakis, as are earth toned sandals or sneakers. A neutral toned dress shoe is a good option as well.

4. To sock or not? This age old question has plagued men for decades. The answer is that it really is up to you. Short socks or ankle socks look good, but no one will fault you for wearing the higher athletic socks. It all depends on the shoe you are wearing and the look you are trying to achieve.

For versatility and overall sturdiness, khaki or cargo shorts are the right choice for nearly any casual to medium-dress occasion all summer long. The perfect length and design for comfort, these shorts can be used for any purpose from yard work to a night out with friends. With a large selection of styles and colors, khaki shorts are a good investment for any guy’s wardrobe.

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