Our “Fashion Forecast for Spring Sewing 2023” in Threads #221 explores utilitarian looks, including cargo pants. We’ve extended our collection of those looks and examine cargo and utility skirt patterns. These garments can be elevated in high-shine satin fabrics or in choosing of-the-moment lower rises and roomy silhouettes. Alternatively, try one of these patterns and make a look inspired by Cynthia Rowley’s silk cargo skirts with a ballroom vibe.

If you own a tried-and-true skirt pattern that would look great with a cargo-style update, try drafting your own capacious pockets.

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Style Arc Richmond Utility Skirts

We love the Richmond utility skirt with its stitched box pleats—five in front and five in back, a waist yoke, and pleated cargo pockets. Pull in the hem with a drawstring to create a bubble shape—or lengthen it for that ballgown look. With an  invisible zipper at the side seam, this skirt can be a project for learning new skills. Choose from women’s sizes 4 to 36 (waist 23 1/2 to 61 inches, hip 32 1/2 to 70 1/8 inches).

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Tilly and the Buttons Bobbi Skirt and Pinafore

The Bobbi skirt is an A-line button-front skirt or bib-front pinafore (jumper) that can be sewn in so many ways. Give it a utility chic look with a choice of pockets, optional flaps, and belt loops. Depending on the fabric you choose, you can easily dress it up or down. Women’s US sizes 2 to 20 (waist 24 inches to 42 inches, hip 33 inches to 51 inches).

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Waffle Patterns Anzu Cargo Skirt

This A-line cargo or utility skirt offers two options for the front opening: an asymmetrical button front or a centered zipper. Where the pattern really shines is in the seemingly endless options for pockets, including edge, patch, zipper, flap, and tool pockets. There are also two options for the hip pocket. You can sew your skirt with various belts, too. Keep it unlined or line it—the pattern for lining is included. Add walking ease with an inverted box pleat at the center-back hem. This design is available in women’s US sizes 0 to 20 (waist 22.8 inches to 40.9 inches, hip 32.3 inches to 50.4 inches)

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Style Arc Lennox Woven Skirt

This A-line, front-button skirt features patch pockets and comes in two lengths. Shaped by four front and four back panels, the skirt offers plenty of space for contrast topstitching to add interest. The design cries out to be made in denim (from deep indigo to summery white), but corduroy, canvas, twill, and stretch wovens are suitable, too. The pattern is sold in women’s sizes 4 to 30 (waist 23 1/2 inches to 40 1/2 inches, hip 50 1/2 inches to 61 inches).

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Burda Style Pattern 5991 Misses’ Front Fastening Flared Skirt

This Burda Style pattern is the perfect on-trend, above-the-knee design. It features a five-button closure down the center front. Patch cargo pockets with buttoned flaps grace the front below the hips. There’s also an option with no pockets and a covered-button front placket, for a streamlined look that would work well in suiting fabric for the office or in brocade for evening. The design includes double waist darts in front and single darts in back. The pattern ranges from women’s US sizes 8 to 18 (waist 24 inches to 32 inches, hip 33 1/4 inches to 42 inches).

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Trish Newbery Weekend Skirt Sewing Pattern with Cargo Pockets

This relaxed-fit, straight skirt for knits supplies a comfortable approach to the trend. The pattern includes your choice of cargo pockets with flap or side-seam pockets and length options. The curved, high-low hem has side-seam vents. A stretch knit waistband features grommets, elastic, and drawcords, for comfort and adjustability. Although this is designed for knits, you can make the main skirt in a light- to midweight woven. Just be sure to use a spandex-blend stretch knit for the waistband. Find this design in women’s sizes US XXS to 4XL (waist 26 3/8 inches to 44 1/16 inches, hips 36 5/8 inches to 54 5/16 inches).

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If you’ve made any of these, we’d love to see your work. Please consider submitting a Gallery post or or tag us on Instagram with #memadethreads.