In my experience, cross winds up to the "max demonstrated...." don't pose to much of a problem. I'd use less flap though.
However, only fly in what you feel comfortable flying in. I used to be paranoid of crosswinds as a student, becasue every bleedin day we had a 10kt+ 90° crosswind, which frankly stopped me going solo till about 25 hrs. Now I enjoy the challenge, though I was surprised on my last flight to note that my left rudder pedal was nearly in the firewall trying to keep that centreline
A touch more speed may have helped.....
I use wing down as well. I crab in on final, then "when it looks right" transition to wing down...............