Cashmerette Grafton Knit Set

This summer, I'm creating a capsule wardrobe using just three patterns and a coordinated collection of fabrics. The goal is to make pieces that can be mixed and matched effortlessly, creating lots of outfit combinations without needing a closet full of clothes.

In my previous capsule wardrobe post, I shared the first two pieces: a hacked Cashmerette Vernon shirt and a pair of Everett shorts. Today I'm adding the second top and second bottom to the collection, both made from the incredibly versatile Cashmerette Grafton pattern. Read on or watch here: 

In my original planning post, I shared the concept behind the capsule, the fabrics I selected, and how I use wardrobe modules to create dozens of outfit combinations from just a handful of garments. You can read more about that process in my Summer Capsule Wardrobe Sewing Plans post.

The first two completed pieces were a hacked Cashmerette Vernon shirt and a pair of Cashmerette Everett shorts made from striped linen. If you missed those projects, be sure to check out my Hacked Vernon Shirt post and my Linen Everett Shorts post for all the details.

Cashmerette Grafton*

Today I'm adding the next two pieces to the collection using the incredibly versatile Cashmerette Grafton pattern.

The Grafton is one of the most versatile patterns in my collection. It includes:

• Multiple bodice options
• Sleeved and sleeveless versions
• Several neckline choices
• Multiple skirt styles
• Dress, top, and skirt options

Cashmerette estimates there are more than 400 possible garment combinations within the pattern, making it a fantastic foundation for wardrobe building.

(psst--want to add this to your pattern stash?  Use code TOMKAT20 for 20% off* this and other Cashmerette collection patterns.)

A Square-Neck Knit Top for Summer

For the second top in my capsule, I chose the sleeveless square-neck version of the Grafton.

I love the clean, polished look of this neckline. It's dressier than a basic tank top but still just as easy to wear. The square neckline is finished with a full lining, which creates beautifully clean edges around both the neckline and armholes.

Fabric Details

I used a cotton-spandex jersey from Style Maker Fabrics in a leafy green color that coordinates beautifully with the rest of the capsule.

This fabric has been a joy to sew. It's soft, stable, and available in a wide range of colors, making it ideal for capsule wardrobe projects.

Fit Adjustments

I sewed:

• Size 10
• G/H cup option

That's typically my starting point for most Cashmerette patterns.

Before cutting, I shortened the top slightly to create a more cropped silhouette that works well with the higher-waisted bottoms in this collection. Looking back, I might have preferred a slightly deeper hem allowance, but the final length works perfectly with the shorts and skirt I'm pairing it with.

A Helpful Hemming Tip

Because the top is fully lined, I decided to hem the lining and outer layer together rather than separately.

To make sure everything aligned properly, I put the shirt on before pinning the hem. This allowed both layers to settle naturally over my body so I could evenly distribute any differences in length caused by turn-of-cloth effects around the neckline and armholes.

After pinning:

1. I serged both layers together.
2. Trimmed any excess as needed.
3. Folded the hem up.
4. Coverstitched the hem in place.

The result is a smooth, stable finish with no twisting or puckering.

A Comfortable Knit Skirt for Everyday Wear

For the second bottom, I chose the straight skirt option from the Grafton.

The pattern also includes circle, A-line, and asymmetrical skirt options, but I wanted something sleek and versatile to balance the proportions of the capsule.

Design Features

For this version, I included:

• A midi length
• Side slit
• Simple elastic waist
• Side slit reinforcement with a bar tack

The side slit adds comfort and movement while keeping the silhouette streamlined.

I can already tell this is going to be one of those garments that gets worn constantly. It pairs beautifully with sandals, sneakers, and casual summer footwear, making it incredibly versatile.

Sewing Notes

The skirt came together very quickly.

For the slit and hem, I used my sewing machine rather than my coverstitch machine. Sharp corners can be tricky with a coverstitch, so a regular sewing machine gave me more control and a cleaner finish.

I also added a label at the back waistband so I can easily tell front from back when getting dressed.

New to Sewing with Knits?

Both of these garments were sewn from cotton-spandex jersey, making them great examples of simple knit sewing projects.

If you're new to sewing with knits, I have several resources that can help:

• My free Knit Sewing Guide ebook
• Knit Sewing Essentials,  my comprehensive online class

The class walks through all the essential techniques you'll need to sew knit garments confidently, including many of the same skills used in these projects.

Why I Love Sewing Capsules

One of the biggest benefits of creating a capsule wardrobe is that every new piece increases the number of outfit combinations available.

This top works with:

• The Everett shorts
• This knit skirt
• Denim shorts
• Jeans
• Future pieces in the capsule

The skirt works just as hard, pairing with multiple tops already completed and several more still on my sewing table.

As I finish the final three pieces—a third top, a dress, and a layering piece—the entire seven-piece module will come together into a wardrobe that offers far more outfit possibilities than the number of garments might suggest.

I'm excited to share the completed capsule and all the mix-and-match combinations soon!

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