How To Wear Wide Leg Cargo Jeans For Summer: Plus Size Outfits

If you’re looking for style tips and plus size friendly Summer outfit ideas for wide leg cargo jeans, you’ve come to the right place! I recently fell in love with this incredibly versatile, ridiculously comfortable pair. Now, I have ALL of the tips aaaand a few cute, easy outfit ideas for you! Let’s jump in!

Wondering If Wide Leg Cargo Jeans Will Work For Summer?

Yes, they totally will! The key to wearing this style for Summer: look for a lighter, “Summer- weight” denim. This version is more breathable and perfect for the season.

Lightweight cargo jeans are everywhere, from big-box retailers to smaller boutiques. No matter what your price point is, you can find a pair that works for you. They were featured in several Spring/ Summer shows including Isabel Marant and MSGM. Plus, they’ve made quite a few Spring & Summer trends lists that I’ve seen.

But most importantly, if YOU like them, why not give them a try? Trends are definitely fun, and I like to keep an eye on them as much as the next, but true style is subjective! If you’re excited about cargo jeans and already have a couple Summer ready outfit ideas in mind, consider this post a tiny push to snag them for yourself!

SHOPPING LIST: Here’s a shoppable list of all of cute pieces styled below, including my jeans

Should Cargo Jeans Be Baggy Or Structured?

That’s another one that’s totally subjective. In general, I prefer my jeans to have some structure though they don’t have to be completely rigid.

I have tried on a few “super baggy” versions, and, as a plus size girl, they add bulk in all the wrong places and feel rather sloppy. But I’ve seen some ladies (plus size babes included) absolutely rock them, so this definitely comes down to personal style. Try both versions and see what fits you best!

If you’re inspired to upgrade your Summer wardrobe, but you’re unsure where to start, check out my recent post all about how to look put together every day.

How To Style Plus Size Cargo Jeans Without Looking Like A Teenager

First of all, have you seen teenagers these days? Honestly, I get some really good ideas from some of the girls on Instagram! But I get it, nobody wants to look like you’re trying too hard, pretending to be way younger than you actually are, or dressed up for a 90s party!

I would pay extra attention to the elements that you pair with your jeans. For example, if you’re going to go with a sneaker, consider a lower profile, more modern sneaker instead of the chunky “Dad shoes”.

This particular style is quite relaxed with a wide leg, so go slimmer on top to help balance everything out. And don’t be afraid to add cute accessories, like simple jewelry or a good belt!

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The Cargo Jeans: Dreamy Drape Stretch Cargo Jeans Plus Size Review

First things first, the jeans. I was initially a little skeptical about the fabric. They are definitely denim, but in something they call “dreamy drape stretch denim” which I was worried would feel thin and cheap. But don’t worry, they absolutely DO NOT!

They are a lighter weight than my other jeans, which I think will be especially helpful in this El Paso heat this Summer. And they are stretchy, though not so stretchy that you have to worry about them losing their shape after wearing them all day.

Yes, these jeans are technically “baggy”, but they definitely still have structure, especially around my butt and waist. Turns out, “dreamy drape stretch denim” is incredibly soft, holds it shape well, and makes for the most comfortable jeans I’ve ever owned. Seriously. I recently wore them on a six-hour journey (two plane rides with a 1.5-hour layover) and they felt almost like leggings (but way more elevated).

As for the fit, they’re super flattering. They are, of course, high waisted (not quite ready to jump into the low-rise trend!). I’m wearing a size 16 Short below.

I initially ordered them in Regular and Short since I’m 5’4″ (barely short enough to need the shorter inseam). The Regulars, while not too long, tended to bunch around my midsection after moving around, which I felt was due to the extra fabric.

The Short jeans did not bunch and fit a little more snugly around my tummy which sort of held everything in if you know what I mean! I also usually wear high waisted undies when I wear these which helps smooth everything out.

SHOPPING LIST Here’s your clickable list of all of the goodies I’m about to mention in this post including my jeans(:

Summer Outfit Ideas With Plus Size Wide Leg Cargo Jeans

Okay, so how to style these amazing plus size cargo jeans. Let’s get into it!

With Sandals…

Remember I mentioned earlier I wore these jeans while traveling? This is the entire outfit I wore, minus the sandals! I wore sneakers, but I love it styled here with these super cute sandals for maybe brunch for the girls, or any event where you want to go for a “just slightly above casual look”.

This top and blazer are linen blends, but, for the record, they’re very comfy, NOT scratchy, and don’t wrinkle as easily as 100% linen pieces do. Plus, the top was a steal at only $20!

Relaxed & Casual

I feel like this would be a cute outfit for a Summer barbecue or maybe heading to the Farmers Market on a warm Saturday morning. It feels so effortless, and the black and white stripes definitely give classic, old money vibes. I am mostly a sandal wearer during Spring and Summer, so that’s how I styled it, but this look would be equally cute with simple white sneakers!

Romantic Casual

Recently, I’ve been experimenting with pairing romantic, super feminine tops like this one with more casual understated pieces and I’m really into it so far!

The cargo jeans keep this sweet, adorable top from feeling almost too girly, like you’re wearing a costume. And the top, itself, elevates the jeans.

I styled here with sneakers (when I wore this outfit, we were taking the kids to an indoor activity center, so lots of running around!) but I feel like it could also work with sandals or wedges for a cute day date look.

SHOPPING LIST Here’s your clickable list of all of the goodies I mention in this post including my jeans(:

How would you style these wide leg cargo jeans for Summer? Already own a pair? Let’s chat below!

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