Wear It Well: Revive Your Old Camo Cargo Pants

Welcome to the latest installment of Wear it Well, a feature that helps readers create interesting looks from clothing they already have in their closets. This time around, we’re helping a gent create a look that includes a bit of camouflage. 

Summer is (unofficially) over and it’s time to start embracing fall trends. This doesn’t mean you have to run out and buy a whole new wardrobe though. Take Dave for example, he wrote in asking:

I’ve seen camo a lot for fall but I’m not quite sure how to wear it. I have these camouflage pants from years ago that I’ve always just worn to run errands or hang out at a buddy’s house. How do I make them a more featured part of my wardrobe?

Dave’s right, camo is hot this fall. The pants Dave submitted are more of a loose fit variety rather than the streamlined version we’ve been seeing for fall. But, with either cut they’ll be able to easily fit into any casual fall look.

Let’s start with the pants. The cargo pockets and less structured design are perfect for a laid back night at the movies, errand running, or traveling. To make the earthy green camo pants pop, we’ve paired them with a super soft lightweight brightly colored Ralph Lauren Teeavailable in sizes to 6x. The orange (or any bright color) complements the pants nicely. Remember, brights with neutrals will make both pieces stand out without competing for the spotlight.

Thrown over top, we’ve gone with a navy blue cowl neck jacket with toggles in a reverse French terry cloth. The cowl neck and wooden toggles dress up this otherwise casual look and give it a sense of sophistication Try this similar sweater at Casual Male. The layered pieces are perfect for the often inconsistent temperature of airports and airplanes. For a bit of a throw-back look, try pairing it with a medium wash denim jacket.

Want to dress up this outfit a bit? Wear a button-down shirt under either jacket for an instant upgrade.

Shoes should be comfortable with a laid back ease—especially if you’re traveling. These shoes are a medium brown suede sneaker. For this look, we like Sperry Wing Tip Sneakers ($70). The suede adds some texture and visual interest while the color grounds the outfit. Wearing the button-down we suggested earlier instead of a tee? Go with a pair of of worn-in boat shoes or driving mocs in a dark or neutral brown color rather than a sneaker.

Dress them up or dress them down, these camo pants are perfectly on trend for fall. It just goes to show that something you already had in your closet can be current and fashionable. Have an item you’re not quite sure what to do with? Send a picture our way. YOU could be featured in the next Wear it Well.

Did you see last week’s Maxton Men feature? We recommend picking up the Herschel Supply Ravine Duffel Bag in Grey & Tan.   A perfect complement to this Wear it Well outfit.

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