Pattern Review: Donovan Skirt by Helen's Closet Patterns

If you've been searching for a breezy skirt pattern with pockets, the Donovan from Helen's Closet Patterns is easy to sew. I just finished one, and from cutting to finished skirt it took about two hours. It's that quick!

👉 Get the Donovan Skirt pattern from Helen's Closet Patterns

How I Found This Pattern

I received the Donovan skirt as part of my monthly IndieStitch box. It was actually my very first project from the subscription. IndieStitch is a monthly sewing box for women that includes a pattern, fabric, and all the notions you need to sew a garment for your wardrobe. I'm perfectly capable of choosing my own projects, but there's something really fun about getting a surprise sewing kit in the mail every month.

For this box, they sent a lightweight chambray fabric that's absolutely perfect for spring. The whole package was ready to sew right out of the box.

Pattern Details at a Glance

Description: Women's skirt with pockets, elastic waist, and optional drawstring and side slits. Available in knee length and calf length. Designed for woven fabrics, sizes 0–34. Difficulty: Beginner Time to Sew: About 2 hours Format: PDF (standard 8.5"x11") instant download, plus an AO print shop copy option

What You'll Need

• 2 yards of woven fabric

• Matching thread

• Universal needle

• 1.5" elastic

• Drawstring (optional)

• Lightweight fusible interfacing (optional)

My Honest Review

The Donovan skirt is a genuinely easy sew — beginner-friendly from start to finish. The only part that required a little extra attention was the pocket construction. The folding technique is a bit unconventional at first glance, but the pattern instructions explain it well, and there are video tutorials available if you get stuck. Take your time with that step and you'll be fine.

My modifications: I added 3 inches to the length because I prefer my skirts a little longer. IndieStitch included 2.5 yards of fabric in the kit, so I had plenty of room to do it without any stress. I also added the optional drawstring, mostly as a style detail. It gives the waist a slightly more polished, intentional look. You can absolutely leave it off if you prefer a cleaner finish.

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One note about the pockets: Some reviews mention that the pockets tend to bulge at the hips. I didn't experience this at all, but it's worth being aware of. If it's a concern, use a slightly lighter weight fabric for the pocket bags to help keep things smooth.

Sizing tip: Size to your hips, not your waist. The elastic waist adjusts to fit, so the only measurement that matters for sizing is your hip. The only exception is if your waist measurement is larger than your hips — in that case, size to your waist instead.

The Finished Look

I styled my Donovan with a white button-up shirt and sandals, and it's exactly the easy spring outfit I was hoping for. The chambray fabric drapes beautifully and the length feels just right with the extra inches I added. This is definitely going to be a staple in my wardrobe.