Same Pattern, Different Bodies: Seamwork Gene Dress

As soon as I saw the preview for Seamwork’s Gene Dress a little while back, my mind flew to the popular Geneva dress by Universal Standard. The Gene replaces the asymmetrical drape hem of the Geneva with a twist feature, but the shape and fit of the two dresses are largely similar…except that the Gene dress doesn’t cost $120!

The following size chart shows the size range and finished garment measurements for the Seamwork Gene dress:

Megan and I were both really intrigued by the Gene dress and have already sewn up our own takes on this pattern!

Megan

• Measurements: Bust: 45″, Waist 42″, Hip 53″
• Body shape: Representing Team Pear!
• Pattern size used: 18-20-22
• Alterations: I sewed this straight of the “envelope” which was great, that is not normally the situation for me. I made some  alterations to the construction techniques, but those included with the pattern will get the job done, even if they are slightly fussy.

• Fabric: Leaf Print ITY  from LA Finch Fabrics. 
• Fit: I am really happy with the fit of this dress! It has a bit of a cocoon shape, so the fit  is a little baggy when it isn’t belted (unbelted pic below), but I appreciate that for casual wear! I think the shape of the neckline and the cap sleeves is really nice.

• Changes for future versions: When I posted this on instagram, a few folks were asking about hacking potential. I can definitely agree that I probably don’t have room in my wardrobe for multiple knot-type dresses! I think hacking potential is there, but there is a bit of volume added into the front so that it drapes into the ties, so it is not going to be a case of just cutting off the tied part. That said, it has a cute cocoon shape, so I will probably investigate some hacking options in the future.
• Final thoughts: I think the main conundrum about this pattern is figuring out what fabric to make it in. It is fairly long, there is a lot of fabric in the hem, and the only thing supporting all weight is the shoulder seam. This ITY polyester knit worked great and I think a lightweight cotton knit might work OK also. I would suggest staying away from any heavy rayon knits. If you want more pictures, hop on over to my post about this on my personal blog. 

Michelle

• Measurements: High Bust – 42″, Bust –46.5″, Bra Size – 40D/DD, Waist – 42″, Hips – 46″, Height – 5’2″.
• Body shape: My body type is somewhere between a hourglass and rectangle from the front, and an apple from the side.
• Pattern size used: I sewed a size 18 for the Gene dress. This is in the “Curvy” size range for Seamwork patterns.
• Alterations: I shortened the dress by 4″ using the lengthen/shorten line on the pattern pieces.

• Fabric: Bamboo Jersey from Stylemaker Fabrics (in Sapphire).
• Fit: I’m quite happy with the fit of the Gene dress. While my measurements mostly put me in a Seamwork size 18 via their size chart, I’ve found that I’m usually happier with the fit of a Seamwork 16, which is my typical Seamwork starting size. However, upon looking at the finished garment measurements for the Gene, I went ahead and went with the size 18, and I’m happy that I did.
• Changes for future versions: I’m quite happy with the Gene as-is. I’m going to make another version using stripes to emphasize the twist detail.

• Final thoughts: The Gene is a total instant gratification project–true-to-the-size chart, fast and easy to sew, and cute when wearing!