Cashmerette Avola Slip Dress & Top Pattern Review + Styling Suggestions

If you’re looking to sew a slip dress that works across seasons, body types, and personal styles, the Cashmerette Avola Slip Dress and Camisole is a fantastic place to start. I’ve sewn this pattern twice now and quickly realized it’s not just easy to make — it’s one of those pieces you’ll reach for again and again. I’m sharing why this is a beginner friendly slip dress, the fabrics that work best, and three realistic ways to style a slip dress for everyday life. Read on or watch here: 

The Cashmerette Avola Slip Dress & Top Pattern Overview

The Cashmerette Avola is a camisole and slip dress pattern designed for light‑ to medium‑weight fabrics with drape, making it ideal if you’re new to sewing garments or want a quick, satisfying project.

Pattern options include:

• Camisole top or slip dress length
• 1" fixed straps or ⅜" adjustable straps
• Partial lining to cleanly finish the neckline
• No closures — it slips easily over your head
• Inclusive sizing from 0–32 with cup sizes up to GH

This flexibility makes it an excellent choice whether you want to sew a slip dress, a layering cami, or even a sleepwear piece.

This is a beginner friendly slip dress because the construction is straightforward, the fit is forgiving, and there are no zippers or buttons to worry about. Even for experienced sewists, this is the kind of reliable pattern you’ll sew again and again thanks to how fast, versatile, and wearable it is.

Fit Adjustments I Made

Both versions were sewn in a size 10 with a GH cup. To fine‑tune the fit, I:

• Shortened the waist by 1"
• Shortened the dress hem by an additional 2" (the top stayed full length)
• Shortened the straps by 2"
• Shifted the straps slightly toward center back to align with my bra straps

Trying the garment on during construction is key — especially when sewing a slip dress — so you can adjust strap length and placement for comfort and coverage.

How I’m Planning to Style This Slip Dress

One of the reasons I love this pattern is how easy it is to style a slip dress in different ways.

Simple & Cool for Hot Weather

Worn on its own, this slip dress is ideal for hot summer days. Pair it with sandals or a small heel and a few accessories, and you have an effortless outfit for dinners, concerts, or travel days.

Polished Layers for Work or Travel

Add a cardigan or blazer and swap in flats or clean sneakers, and the slip dress instantly feels more refined. This makes it a great transitional piece for spring and fall or for creative‑professional environments.

Casual ’90s‑Inspired Styling

Layer the slip dress over a t‑shirt and finish the look with sneakers for a relaxed, nostalgic outfit. It’s comfortable, practical, and perfect for everyday wear.

Cashmerette Club Notes

The Avola Slip Dress & Top is available through the Cashmerette Club All-Access tier, which includes a new pattern each month, access to past releases, master classes, and a supportive sewing community. If you’ve been thinking about joining, you can get $10 off the All-Access tier when you sign up using code TOMKAT10* through ➡️ this link*. Not ready for the club just yet? You can also save 20% on any Cashmerette collection pattern* with code TOMKAT20*, and still use all of the slip-dress styling ideas shared in this post with a similar pattern.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been thinking about learning to sew a slip dress, this pattern is an excellent starting point. I’ve created a full sew along on YouTube to walk you through the Cashmerette Avola step-by-step. The Avola is truly a beginner friendly slip dress with the versatility to grow alongside your skills and your wardrobe. Whether you dress it up, layer it down, or wear it year-round, it’s a piece that proves handmade clothing can be both practical and stylish.

 *_{Affiliate links included—thank you for supporting my work! No extra cost to you, but I may earn a commission. Offers may change.}