Colombian singer Shakira visited Quibdó in the department of Chocó on Monday following a devastating magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 10. The artist toured damaged educational facilities in the region and announced new initiatives to support local reconstruction efforts.
During the visit, Shakira confirmed that her charity foundation, Pies Descalzos, will collaborate with philanthropist Howard Buffett and his foundation to build ten new schools in the area. She also pledged support for the reconstruction of the Technological University of Chocó and announced funding dedicated to recovering damaged educational centers.
Shakira is a global music star from Barranquilla, Colombia, who established the Pies Descalzos Foundation in the late 1990s to improve access to education for vulnerable children across Colombia. Her charitable organization has been actively developing educational projects in the Chocó region for more than two decades.
The department of Chocó, located along Colombia's Pacific coast, is one of the country's most ecologically diverse yet economically vulnerable regions, with its capital Quibdó serving as an administrative center for local communities.
Practical utilitarian style in Quibdó
Although clothing took a back seat during the humanitarian mission, Shakira chose a comfortable and functional look tailored for touring the affected areas. Stepping away from elaborate styling, she wore a simple combination consisting of a black tank top, dark brown cargo pants, and white platform Converse sneakers, with virtually no accessories.
The trousers transformed an ensemble constructed from basic wardrobe pieces. Featuring a loose silhouette, wide legs, and large side pockets, the pants bring back the utilitarian aesthetic that made cargo trousers a defining fashion trend of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The choice of color added a versatile touch to the outfit. Rather than standard military green or classic beige, Shakira selected a dark brown shade that transitions smoothly into autumn wardrobing. The tone pairs easily with black, white, grey, burgundy, and blue.
As September approaches, wide cargo pants offer a direct alternative to loose-fitting jeans. They can be worn with a simple sleeveless top during warm weather, or paired with a crisp white shirt, lightweight sweater, or tailored blazer as temperatures drop in the autumn months. By wearing the outfit on a relief trip, Shakira demonstrated that fashion trends can be returned to their original purpose of providing practical everyday comfort.
High street alternatives for autumn
For shoppers seeking to replicate Shakira's low-key look, fashion brand Blue Banana offers a similar pair of long, straight-cut cargo trousers in a matching brown shade. The pants are tailored from lightweight cotton poplin and feature a relaxed, wide-leg cut designed for maximum comfort.
Priced at 31.90 euros, the Blue Banana cargo pants can be styled using the same practical formula adopted by the singer, paired simply with a black tank top and white sneakers.
