Cashmerette Wexford Dress and Shirt Pattern Review

If you love an easy, swingy knit dress or top that’s comfortable and flattering, the Cashmerette Wexford* is such a winner. It’s simple enough for confident beginners, but polished enough to become a wardrobe staple. And because this pattern is fitted through the shoulders and bust before flaring out, fit and fabric choice become the secret sauce for a perfect Wexford. Let’s walk through everything you need to know. Read on or watch here:

Meet the Cashmerette Wexford

The Cashmerette Wexford* is a knit swing-style top or dress available in the All Access Club Tier.  It is fitted through the shoulders and bust and flaring gently to either a shirt or dress length. The pattern includes:

• Sleeveless or sleeved bodices
• Short, ¾, or long sleeve options
• A beautifully finished banded neckline
• Sizes 0–32 with C–H cups
• A quick, satisfying sew whether you’re using a sewing machine or serger

I created a full sew-along available here or on the TomKat Stitchery YouTube channel, where you can watch step-by-step construction for both the top and dress versions. It's perfect whether you’re sewing your first Wexford or want extra knit-sewing tips.  

In the sew along, I'll show you

• How to stabilize shoulder seams
• How to sew the entire garment on a regular sewing machine
• Twin needle + zigzag hemming techniques
• Knit troubleshooting tips
• Construction walkthrough for both the top and the dress

I'll be right there with you, start to finish!

Why Fit Matters (Especially on a Swing Dress)

Because the Cashmerette Wexford style swings out from the bust, the fitted areas—shoulders, neckline, bust—become even more important. Getting those elements right keeps the silhouette intentional and prevents that dreaded “shapeless sack” look. Here's my tips on getting the best fit: 

1.  Choose the Right Size Up Front

Use your upper bust measurement with the Cashmerette size calculator, then select the correct cup size. Starting with the right base size makes everything easier.

2. Shoulder Fit Essentials

These tweaks are small but mighty—they dramatically affect how the bodice hangs.

• Shoulder seam should sit at the top of your shoulder.
• Behind the shoulder? → You likely need a forward shoulder adjustment.
• Past the shoulder edge? → Try a narrow shoulder adjustment.
• Inside the shoulder line? → Consider a broad shoulder adjustment.
• Check your shoulder slope.
• Wrinkles above the bust? → You may need a sloping shoulder adjustment.
• Neckline gaping? → Try a square shoulder adjustment.

3.  Play With Hems for Your Best Proportion

Hem placements act like horizontal “visual lines,”.  A simple try-on with the hem folded up or down helps you find your sweet spot.  Try a high-hip for a modern tee look, lower-hip for a tunic vibe, At the knee or slightly above for dresses, lengthen for a chic midi.

Fabric Choice Makes ALL the Difference

The Wexford calls for a knit with at least 30% stretch, such as cotton spandex, cotton modal, rayon/viscose spandex, poly jerseys, bamboo knits (a gorgeous option!)

If you want DRAPE:

Choose rayon/viscose spandex or bamboo jerseys. These fabrics flow around curves, are lightweight for hot weather, and add a lot of movement and swish without volume.
This is especially great if you prefer the swing shape to drape instead of stand away from the body.

If you want STRUCTURE:

Choose cotton spandex to give the swing silhouette an architectural feeling . This gives a more defined A-line, slight volume and shape, and a crisp outline that stands away from the body.  This is perfect if you want

Bonus: The Wexford Makes a Great Nightgown

Rayon/bamboo are ultra-breathable—amazing for sleepwear. I made the sew-along samples in my daughter’s size for comfy college dorm pajamas!

Want to Improve Your Fit or Knit Skills?

If you’re craving more confident, beautifully fitted garments, I have are two fantastic resources for you:

Pattern Fitting 101
This class teaches the core fitting concepts that make every project look more polished and intentional. This class includes a full library of fitting adjustments (video and written) to help you fit patterns to your unique shape. This class is currently only offered twice a year. 

Knit Sewing Essentials Class
This class walks you step-by-step through sewing knits on a regular sewing machine, plus serger and coverstitch techniques when you’re ready to level up. It’s perfect if knits still feel intimidating, giving you clear guidance on necklines, hems, stabilizing seams, and working confidently with stretch fabrics.

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