Adding Heirloom Charm to the Cashmerette Vernon Shirt
The final piece of my Summer Capsule Wardrobe is complete and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
If you've been following along with this series, you know I challenged myself to create a complete summer capsule using just three patterns from one pattern company and five coordinating fabrics. The result is a wardrobe where every piece works together, making getting dressed almost effortless.
This final garment isn't just another shirt—it's the layering piece that completes the entire module. Read on or watch here:
Why the Cashmerette Vernon Is One of My Tried-and-True Patterns
The Vernon* has officially earned permanent TNT (Tried-and-True) status in my sewing room.
I've made it in lightweight linens, cozy fall fabrics, and spring shirtings.I simply love a classic button-up shirt.
It works as:
- A traditional shirt
- An overshirt
- A lightweight jacket
- A beach cover-up
- A layering piece
That versatility makes it one of the hardest-working patterns in my wardrobe.
This project features the Vernon*, one of Cashmerette's collection patterns. If you've been thinking about trying it, you can use TOMKAT20 to receive 20% off eligible Cashmerette collection patterns.
Turning a Shirt into the Perfect Summer Topper
Rather than making another traditional button-up, I wanted this version to function primarily as a lightweight jacket.
To achieve that look, I made a few simple changes:
- Kept the shortened sleeves from my previous Vernon hack
- Left the full front button opening intact
- Added a little extra length for layering
- Used larger coral buttons for a jacket-inspired feel
The result is a garment that can be worn either buttoned as a shirt or open over a tank, dress, or tee.
It's almost like sneaking an extra top into the capsule without sewing another garment.
Playing with New Silhouettes
One thing I've been enjoying lately is experimenting with silhouettes that are a little outside my comfort zone.
After spending time in New York this spring, I noticed cropped layers, boxier proportions, and longer shorts everywhere.
Rather than simply admiring those looks, I wanted to experiment with them in my own wardrobe.
That's one of the greatest advantages of sewing your own clothes.
You can try new trends without committing your entire closet—and if something doesn't become a favorite, you've learned something about your personal style.
Style should evolve. Sewing gives us the freedom to explore.
Decorative Stitching That Looks Like Heirloom Sewing
The detail that really makes this shirt special is the decorative scalloped hem.
Instead of a traditional turned hem, I used one of the decorative stitches already built into my sewing machine.
It's a great reminder that most sewing machines come with dozens—even hundreds—of stitches that rarely get used.
Why not put them to work?
I stitched the decorative scallop along:
- The shirt hem
- Both sleeve hems
Using rayon embroidery thread in the needle gave the stitching a subtle sheen that really highlights the design.
How I Created the Scalloped Edge
Like many sewing experiments, this one started with testing.
My first sample stitched directly onto a single layer of fabric using water-soluble stabilizer.
While it worked, the edge felt a little too delicate.
Instead, I chose to create a traditional folded hem and stitch the decorative scallop so the far-right swing of the needle wrapped around the folded edge.
That method gave the hem:
- More stability
- Better durability
- Cleaner finishing
After stitching, I:
- Removed the water-soluble stabilizer
- Applied Fray Check
- Carefully trimmed close to the decorative stitching
- Pressed everything well
The finished edge feels secure while maintaining that beautiful scalloped effect.
I also used the embroidery thread for the buttonholes to tie all of the decorative details together.
Why I Love Adding These Personal Details
Decorative stitching, embroidery, unique buttons—these little details are one of the biggest reasons I enjoy sewing.
Ready-to-wear clothing is filled with special finishes like these.
There's no reason we can't incorporate them into our handmade wardrobes too.
Even using a decorative stitch that's already built into your sewing machine can completely change the look of a garment.
It's these little touches that make handmade clothing truly one of a kind.
Final Thoughts
The Cashmerette Vernon* continues to prove why it's one of my favorite patterns. With just a few simple modifications and a little creativity, it became the perfect finishing piece for this summer wardrobe.
More importantly, this project reminded me that some of the best sewing inspiration doesn't come from buying another pattern—it comes from looking at the patterns you already love and asking, "What else could this become?"
Sometimes all it takes is a decorative stitch, a different button, or a fresh perspective to create something that feels entirely new.
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