Mindy Kaling’s Cargo Jeans Are a Fall Must-Have, Shop Pairs from $30

Mindy Kaling makes really good shows and outfits. 

In an Instagram post from earlier this week, the Running Point co-creator seemingly greenlighted the functional pants style we’re gearing up to grab for fall. She had on what appeared to be cargo pants with deep, roomy pockets — a detail that Oprah is also majorly keen on — in a deep blue wash that was well suited for fall. 

She paired them with a cozy blue sweater and what looks like a pair of Prada loafers for a low-lift yet extremely spiffy getup. Below, recreate her look with similar cargo jeans from Amazon, Nordstrom, and Banana Republic for as little as $35. 

Cargo Jeans Inspired by Mindy Kaling

Longyida High Waisted Cargo Jeans

So what’s the big deal about big pockets, you ask? They’re basically a mini purse without all the fuss. You can stash your phone, keys, and wallets in them and keep your hands open and ready for a warm drink on a cold day or while picking out pumpkins at the local patch. (Plus, denim is usually thicker and warmer than other fabrics!) And thankfully, this pair’s pockets “are large enough to fit essentials without being bulky,” according to one shopper. 

They’re also “very comfortable” and have a high-rise cut, which prevents any painful pinching around the lower belly. They fit sizes 2 to 14 and come in five different washes. 

Banana Republic Factory Straight High-Rise Cargo Jean, $43 at checkout

This Banana Republic Factory pair has double discounts, so they’re under $45 right now — when was the last time you saw jeans for that price? The wash is even darker than Mindy’s, giving them an almost navy-like appearance that looks more polished for upscale dinners or social hours. And there are regular, tall, and petite options, so you don’t have to get them tailored. 

Wash Lab Denim High Waist Straight-Leg Cargo Jeans

If you want all the pockets a pair of pants has to offer, these should be on your radar — there are at least nine different places for you to carry all of your precious cargo. They’re “comfortable” and “not heavy at all,” according to one shopper. They’re “very stretchy,” too, wrote another, so make sure to size down for the best fit.  

Cargo jeans are looking cooler and cooler for fall, so keep scrolling to shop more options inspired by Mindy Kaling now. 

Bayeas High Waist Wide-Leg Cargo Jeans

Cotton On Relaxed Cargo Jean

Qicamo High Waisted Cargo Jean

Banana Republic Factory Wide-Leg Mid-Rise Cargo Pull-On Jean, $41 at checkout