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How to Use the Kibbe Scale to Dress for Your Body Type

body type for Kibbe scale

Do you struggle to find clothes that fit and flatter your body type? The Kibbe scale can help. I know you’re probably feeling like you’re drowning in a sea of fashion advice available. But then applying it to your own unique body type can be daunting. You may also already know about other body type systems that categorize you into apple body shape, hourglass, and more. But then that’s not enough to curate a collection of flattering clothes just for you.

Well, I’ve been there, too! That’s why I discovered the Kibbe body type system. It’s like having a secret decoder ring for fashion. It helps you understand your unique body shape and how to dress to accentuate features.

Imagine finally feeling confident in your clothes, knowing you look and feel your best—no more second-guessing about the best dress style for your body type. With the Kibbe scale, you’ll find tons of outfits for different body shapes and be able to rock a style that’s truly deserving of your money and attention. 

What is Kibbe?

The Kibbe scale is also known as the “Kibbe body scale” or “Kibbe body type system.” it is all about finding harmony between your body and clothes. It is not about size or shape. But instead, it’s about that unique blend of your physical characteristics alongside the yin (feminine, soft, flowing) and yang (masculine, sharp, structured) energies that make you. 

Consider this: some women look amazing in flowing maxi dresses, while others rock sharp power suites. The Kibbe system will help you figure out where you belong or even help you achieve a beautiful blend of both.

woman wearing a maxi yellow gown for Kibbe scale.

How did the Kibbe Body System Come to Be?

The Kibbe scale and body type system was created by Manhattan-based stylist, David Kibbe, a renowned image consultant in 1987. This came as the concept of this book at the time: David Kibbe’s Metamorphosis: Discover Your Image Identity As Only You Can. 

Frustrated by the limitations of traditional sizing and body shape classifications, he sought a more holistic approach to understanding individual beauty. 

For years, he meticulously observed and analyzed women from various backgrounds. He examined how different lines, fabrics, and silhouettes interacted with their unique physical attributes. He noticed a fascinating pattern: certain women looked incredible in sharp, angular styles, while others radiated in soft, flowing garments.

This led to his groundbreaking discovery or what we know as the David Kibbe evaluation. He realized it wasn’t just about size or shape, but about the unique blend of yin and yang energies within each individual. He categorized these energies, resulting in the Kibbe Body Type System we know today.

Understanding the Kibbe System

Now you know what Kibbe is, we move on to talking about the Kibbe body system. In Kibbe’s system, there are 13 different types also termed “image identity” types. As said earlier each body type focuses on the interplay between physical characteristics and energy balance. So, you’ll be using the yin and yang influence on how one should dress to complement one’s natural shape

The. 13 body types can be grouped into five main families: Dramatic, Natural, Classic, Gamine, and Romantic. Recognizing individual traits such as bone structure, facial features (Kibbe face types) and body flesh is essential for identifying your type. 

Now, you should never forget that no body type is essentially better than another. And that these categories don’t mean you’re trying to put yourself into a box. Instead, see these groups as a way to embrace all the imperfections and perfections of your outward appearance. And this pairs against the most flattering clothes to achieve the best style for you. That said, check out this article to learn how to create a capsule wardrobe

Pictures of two celebrities accurately depicting the yin and yang of the Kibbe body scale

How the Kibbe Scale Determines Women’s Clothing Styles

Now let’s talk more about how the Kibbe system uses the concept of Yin and Yang which is borrowed from ancient Chinese Philosophy.

  • Yin represents feminine energy – soft, flowing, curved, and romantic. Think flowing fabrics like silk and chiffon, delicate details like lace and ruffles, and soft, rounded shapes.
  • Yang represents masculine energy – sharp, angular, structured, and dramatic. Think crisp lines, tailored cuts, bold colors, and geometric shapes.

However, the “Yin” and “Yang” concepts aren’t about gender constructs. Instead, it’s more like natural descriptors. Where the Yin is all about softness and roundness, the yang is about angularity and sharpness. And for most people, you have a mixture of these Yin and Yang features in diverse compositions. 

Hence, this Yin and Yang concept is further subdivided into four:

  • Petite Yin: characterized by small hands and feet, delicate bone structures, small noses, etc.,
  • Lush Yin: with features like large eyes, full lips, and hourglass silhouettes. 
  • Sharp yang: This manifests in long and lean bodies, vertical lines, narrowness, pointed edges, and prominent jawlines. 
  • Soft yang: horizontal lines, broadness, square silhouettes, blunt edges, muscularity, and wider noses. 
understaning the yin and yang of the kibbe scale

The 5 Type Families To Dress Your Body Using the Kibbe Scale 

There’s nothing more fascinating than discovering how the Kibbe scale can help you pick the best clothes for your body type. You should know that using the Kibbe scale can be awesome for you. Unlike many other traditional body type theories; this is body-positive.

It accepts all the aspects of your body and provides ideas that do not distort but instead emphasize the native lines of your body.

Now, Let’s dive deeper into the fascinating world of Kibbe. We’ll talk more about the different Kibbe body types and families. 

And I’ll also share insider tips on how to pick the best dress style for your body type. That way, in the end, you’ll find flattering women’s clothing styles that make you feel confident and beautiful.

It’s important to realize that there are five types of families which are the pure Kibbe types. Then off these, we have 8 other body types that are mixtures of the pure types. They all together create different variations of the yin/yang energy balance.

Yin and Yang spectrum of the Kibbe Scale.
Yin and Yang spectrum for the Kibbe scale.

So here goes, the full list of the Kibbe body types:

Dramatic Family

  • Dramatic: Sharpest yang, strong vertical lines.
  • Soft Dramatic: Dramatic with added curves and softness.

Natural Family

  • Flamboyant Natural: Broad shoulders, strong yang bone structure.
  • Natural: Straight, unadorned lines, moderate yang.
  • Soft Natural: Width and curve, shorter vertical.

Classic Family

  • Dramatic Classic: Balanced, slightly more yang.
  • Classic: Balanced yin and yang, even proportions.
  • Soft Classic: Balanced, slightly more yin, softer features.

Gamine Family

  • Flamboyant Gamine: Petite, youthful energy, androgynous.
  • Gamine: Petite, playful, and androgynous.
  • Soft Gamine: Petite, youthful, and slightly more yin.

Romantic Family:

  • Theatrical Romantic: Petite, dramatic, and romantic.
  • Romantic: Soft, curvy, and romantic.
Body Typology for the Kibbe scale
Body Typology for the Kibbe Scale

How to Dress the Dramatic Body Type of the Kibbe Scale

The Dramatic Body Type is all about the sharp, angular, and statuesque body shape. It’s pure Yang energy.  This family type, therefore has no Ying influence. People with this body type within the Kibbe scale tend to:

  • Appear very tall, elongated, and narrow
  • Have narrow shoulders with sharp edges
  • Have long arms and legs
  • Their hands and feet are narrow and large. 
  • They might have a flat bust line, straight hips, and a straight waistline.
  • They have prominent sharp, and angular facial features
  • Small closed-spaced eyes, straight, thin lips, and taut cheek flesh. 
  • If overweight, they will have most of their weight around the hips and upper thighs.

To dress this body time, you need to focus on strong lines, bold colors, and a touch of edginess. So, clean tailored blazers and straight-leg pants are your best friends. 

For instance, you should focus on crisp collars, sharp shoulders, and structured silhouettes. Concerning bold colors, think of vibrant hues and striking patterns. For instance, you should wear clothes in colors like emerald greens, deep reds, and bold geometrics. Ultimately, you should choose monochromatic colors for the dramatic kibbe body type.

Your fabrics should also follow the same theme. Focus more on thick and heavy fabrics like silk, velvet, and leather.

In that sense, you should avoid frills, ruffles, and overly feminine details. 

Woman showing the Dramatic body type of the Kibbe Scale

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Dramatic Body Type?

So how do you begin putting together the right women’s clothing styles for this Kibbe body type? Easy, follow these:

  • Tops: focus on crisp cotton shirts, silk blouses, and sharp-shouldered clothes. You should also add V-necks, turtlenecks, halter tops, and off-the-shoulder styles to your collections. These clothes add a dramatic effect and emphasize the vertical lines. 
  • Bottoms: You need straight-leg, wide-leg, and high-waisted pants. Focus on maxi skirts and long flowing dresses. A-line skirts should also be your go-to option.
  • Dresses: Sheath dresses, maxi dresses, and wrap dresses. 
  • Outerwear: Long coats, trench coats, tailored blazers and jackets, leather jackets.
  • Accessories: Bold necklaces, earrings and bracelets, wide belts, long flowing scarves and oversized sunglasses.
  • Colors: bold colors like red, blue, and green. You can also add neutral colors of black, white, and gray to create a classic and sophisticated look. Also, metallic colors like gold and silver can add sparkle.

How to Dress the Soft Dramatic Kibbe Body Type

The Soft Dramatic possesses the sharp and angular features of the Dramatic with a touch of softness and curves. Often, you may have these defining features, if you fall under this Kibbe scale:

  • Typically moderate to tall, and quite vertical
  • Fleshy (unless ultra-thin) especially around the bust and hip area
  • Have long legs and arms with fleshiness in the upper arm and thigh areas without exercise
  • Can have a moderate-sized waist
  • If overweight, would have more flesh around the upper arms, thighs, waist, hips, and bust.
  • Long and angular bone structures without a lot of edginess.
  • Full, lush, and sensual facial features with large eyes, full lips, and fleshy cheeks.

So, you still want to accentuate those features but with more balance. Here you’ll combine sharp lines with flowing elements. For instance, you can pick structured tops with wide-leg pants or tailored jackets over flowing dresses. Again, you focus on luxurious fabrics but this time with a touch of softness. Great examples are velvet, silk, and cashmere. 

So, the ultimate plan to achieve the best style for this body type is subtle curves intentionally added to shape looks. For the color palette, pick watercolor prints and rich jewel tones to add a touch of softness. Good examples are deep reds, emerald greens, and sapphire blues.

Think of flowing lines, draped fabrics, wide-leg pants, slightly softened shoulders, and wrap dresses. That said, avoid sharp angles, overly structured pieces, and excessive embellishments. 

Woman depicting the body type of the Soft Dramatic Kibbe Scale

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Soft Dramatic Kibbe body type?

Here’s how to dress the soft dramatic to blend the sharp lines with a subtle touch of softness and curve:

  • Tops: wrap tops and blouses, off-the-shoulder tops, cashmere or silk or merino wool sweaters, and subtle peplum tops.
  • Bottoms: flare jeans and pants, straight-leg pants, A-line skirts, wrap skirts.
  • Dresses: wrap dresses, midi dresses, and long flowing maxi dresses.
  • Outerwear: wrap coats, long cardigans, leather jackets
  • Accessories: Bold earrings, necklaces and bracelets, long flowing scarves, wide belts, oversized sunglasses.

How to Dress the Kibble Natural Body Type

The Kibble Natural Body type is yang dominant with a slightly lesser degree. So, people in this part of the Kibbe scale still have angular features but with slightly less sharper edges. Their body structure would appear to be:

  • Tall and broad
  • Wide shoulders with blunt edges
  • Have long arms and legs
  • Large and wide feet.
  • Wide flat-ish bust line, straight and wide waistline, and straight hips
  • They also tend to have angular facial features with blunt edges
  • They also tend to have broad lips, wide-spaced eyes, and muscular cheek flesh. 

So the Kibbe natural body type demands clothes that complement your natural, effortless beauty. The keyword here is simple and understated. 


On the fabric angle, stick to natural fibers like linen, cotton, or wool. And when you want textures, suede, corduroy, and denim add interest to your outfits. And for colors, you need colors that complement your natural aesthetics. So, think earthy tones of browns, greens, blues and neutrals.

Natural body type on the Kibbe Scale

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Kibbe Natural Body Type?

  • Tops: Loose-fitting tunics and blouses, chunky knits, oversized sweaters and cardigans, simple tees, and tanks.
  • Bottoms: straight-leg jeans, wide-leg jeans, flowing skirts in linen or chiffon, denim or linen shorts
  • Dresses: Linen dresses, wrap dresses, maxi dresses
  • Outwear: long cardigans, Trench coats, Denim jacket
  • Accessories: simple necklaces and bracelets, scarves and hats,

How to Dress the Flamboyant Natural Body Type of the Kibbe Scale

The Flamboyant Natural is characterized by a strong angular frame including broad shoulders, long limbs, and blunt edges. Other defining characteristics include:

  • Moderate to very tall 
  • Straight and angular with bust and hips tending towards being flat or straight
  • If overweight, may be stocky or square with chubby or fleshy facial features.
  • Broad and square bones, wide shoulders, long arms and legs. 
  • Large hands and feet
  • Straight lips that are slightly thin, eyes may be very large and open or very small and straight. 

For this Kibble scale, you need to avoid overly fitted or constricting clothes. Opt for relaxed silhouettes that allow for movement.

Play with proportion by balancing your broad shoulders with wider legs. You should embrace natural fabrics: linen, cotton, wool, and suede. Also, consider bold patterns. Don’t shy away from large-scale patterns like bold stripes, checks, and geometric prints.

Woman wearing a flowy gown showing the flamboyant Natural Body Type

What are the best clothing items for the Flamboyant Natural Body Type?

  • Tops: Loose-fitting tunics and blouses, chunky knits, oversized sweaters and cardigans, asymmetrical necklines like boat necks, v-necks, and off-the-shoulder women’s clothing styles.
  • Bottoms: wide-leg pants, A-line skirts, and straight-leg jeans.
  • Dresses: maxi dresses, wrap dresses.
  • Outerwear: long cardigans, trench coats, denim jackets.
  • Accessories: oversized jewelry, wide belts, and unique footwear
  • Unique footwear: boots, sandals, and sneakers with interesting details.

How to Dress the Soft Natural Body Type

The Soft Natural Body type is more curvier. This body type usually has a moderate bust and hips with a softly defined waste. Also, the bone structure is neither sharp nor delicate. Other defining features include:

  • Moderate to slightly small
  • Slightly soft tending towards fleshiness
  • Slightly curvy tending towards hourglass shape, but not extremely so.
  • If overweight, may be extremely soft and fleshy around the waist. 
  • Fully rounded facial features with a small and wide nose.
  • Slightly angular bones, slightly square or broad shoulders with moderate to slightly short limbs. 

To dress these Kibble types, focus on flowing fabrics. Think soft, drapey fabrics like linen, cotton, and rayon. These fabrics move gracefully with your body and enhance your natural curves.

Also, avoid overly fitted clothes, as they can be uncomfortable and unflattering in this silhouette. You should also stick to fabrics with interesting textures like knits, suede, and corduroy. Make soft naturals your go-to when picking your clothes.  Think browns, greens, and muted blues that harmonize with your natural warmth. 

Soft natural body type

What is the Best Clothing Item for the Soft Natural?

  • Tops: Flowy blouses and tunics, knit wears in soft drapey fabrics, wrap tops and dresses, soft tees, and tanks in muted colors. 
  • Bottoms: straight-leg jeans, wide-leg pants, A-line skirts, relaxed shorts. 
  • Dresses: wrap dresses, midi dresses in flowing fabrics, maxi boho dresses. 
  • Outerwear: Long cardigans, Trench coats, denim jackets
  • Accessories: delicate jewelry, small handbags, scarves in soft natural prints. 

How to Dress the Classic Body Type

The Classic body type has a well-proportioned figure with moderated curves and a defined waist. That is they are a balanced blend of yin and yang. Usually,  when you take the Classic Kibbe body test, the following characteristics would be your answers:

  • They are usually of moderate height. 
  • Their shoulders are neither sloped nor fully straight
  • They have moderate legs, feet, hands, and legs.
  • They also have evenly balanced bust lines, waistlines, and hips
  • And their facial features are very symmetrical.

If you are the classic Kibbe body type,  you should embrace clean lines and tailored silhouettes. This means sharp trousers, well-fitted dresses, and structured jackets. Also silk, wool, and linen are the perfect choice to achieve that drape and timeless feel. To accentuate this body type, you should avoid excessive embellishments or overly trendy styles. It’s also important to focus on neutrals like black, white, navy, and gray with pops of jewel tones. 

Classic body type of the Kibbe Scale

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Classic Body Type?

Your key clothing selections if you fall within this part of the Kibbe Scale should include items like a well-tailored blazer, a crisp white shirt, a little black dress, and a classic trench coat. Other clothing items you need include;

  • Tops: silk blouses with clean lines, soft cashmere and crewneck sweaters and cardigans,  crisp button-down cotton shirts, tailored blouses with subtle details like pleats and ruffles. You also need simple tees and tanks in solid colors and classic stripes. The 
  • Bottoms: You need straight-leg, wide-leg, and cropped tailored trousers in wool, silk, or line. Cotton, and linen. Also, pencil skirts and A-line mid-length to knee-length skirts with a slight flair are flattering clothes. 
  • Shorts: Consider tailored shorts of moderate length.
  • Dresses: Wrap dresses, shift dresses, sheath dresses, and mid-length dresses with clean lines and classic details.
  • Outwear: Tailored coats in classic colors of black, navy, or camel. You need blazers, peacoats, leather jackets, and trench clothes.
  • Accessories: delicate necklace, earrings and bracelets. 
  • Shoes: The best selections are classic pumps, loafers, and ballet flats.

How to Dress the Dramatic Classic Body Type

The Dramatic Classic Kibbe body type combines classic elegance and dramatic flair. They have a strong, well-defined bone structure with a lean and elongated frame. Other attributes to look for:

  • They look fairly trump and compact and can be slightly muscular at ideal weight
  • Typically moderate in terms of height.
  • If overweight, their body may look more pear-shaped.
  • They have symmetrical bones with slightly angular edges. 
  • Facial features include moderate lips and moderate to large eyes.

Looking at these unique attributes, you can see why they need structured tailored pieces that create a clean and polished look thereby enhancing their natural grace. 

Concerning fabrics, this Kibbe body scale should opt for luxurious materials like linen, wool, or silk. It’s also important to avoid excessive embellishments or overly trendy styles. Keep it simple and let your natural beauty shine through. Also, it’s important to focus on neutrals like black, white, navy, and gray with splashes of jewel tones.  You should also ensure that the fabrics you choose have matte instead of shiny finishes. And, above everything, you use more classic patterns like plaids, checks, and stripes when you want to make your looks more interesting. 

Dramatic Classic body type of the Kibbe scale

What are the best clothing items for the Dramatic Classic Body Type?

Here are some clothing items that tend to flatter the Dramatic Classic Body type;

  • Tops: Structured jackets like blazers,-style jackets, or cropped moto jackets. You also need turtlenecks, v-necklines, and square necklines. 
  • Bottoms: Straight-leg pants, knee-length or midi skirts with a slight A-line, or straight cuts can be one of your most flattering clothes. In that case, you should avoid overly flared or voluminous skirts as they will overwhelm your frame. 
  • Dresses: Sheath dresses, wrap dresses, and A-line dresses are all great options for Dramatic Classics. Look for dresses with clean lines and a defined waist.
  • Outerwear: Choose a well-tailored coat that is a must-have for any Dramatic Classic. Look for coats with clean lines, such as a classic trench coat or a tailored wool coat.
  • Jackets: As mentioned earlier, structured jackets are a great choice for outerwear. Leather jackets, denim jackets, and bomber jackets can also be flattering.
  • Accessories: Prioritize jewelry with clean lines and geometric shapes. This includes statement earrings, chunky necklaces, and bold bracelets. For belts, pick a simple one with clean lines.
  • Shoes: Prioritize pointed-toe shoes, pumps, and ankle boots. Avoid overly chunky or casual shoes, as they can clash with your sophisticated style.

How to Dress the Soft Classic Body Type

The Soft Classic body type is characterized by rounded curves, and flowing lines. They also have features like:

  • Moderate height 
  • Slightly rounded body type with soft arms, thighs, and waistline although they are evenly proportions.
  • Arms and legs may be slightly short.
  • Their bone structure is symmetrical with soft or slightly rounded edges
  • They have moderate to small, slightly wide hands and feet.
  • Their facial features consist of symmetrical and evenly spaced large eyes, soft cheeks, and full lips.

So, you need clothes that accentuate this. Therefore, it’s better to focus on soft, flowing fabrics like silk, chiffon, cashmere, and merino wool. Your clothes should also feature soft, muted colors like pastels, neutrals, and jewel tones complementing your natural coloring. When you want to add visual interest, prioritize small prints like floral, polka dots, and stripes that can add visual interest without overwhelming your frame.

Soft Classic body type of the Kibbe scale

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Soft Classic Body Type?

Dressing this Kibbe body type involves creating outfits that enhance your natural curves while maintaining a sense of elegance and sophistication. Here are some tips and clothing items to help you achieve that flattering body of the Kibbe Scale:

  • Tops: Wrap tops and dresses especially the ones with flattering v-necklines or crewnecks to accentuate your curves. Also look for cashmere, merino wool, or silk blends. For your blouses prioritize flowing materials like rayon, chiffon, and silk. You should avoid stiff fabrics. You may also wear fitted tops, as long as they are not overly tight. 
  • Bottoms: Straight-leg pants and A-line skirts will gracefully slim your hips adding a touch of femininity to your look. You should also prioritize wide-leg pants and dark wash, straight-leg, or slightly bootcut jeans. 
  • Outerwear: Choose coats with soft lines as against structured coats. Aim for flowing lines and soft fabrics like cashmere or wool. Also, pick jackets with softer shoulders. This means you should avoid sharp, angular jackets.
  • Accessories: Opt for delicate and understated jewelry like pearls, silver chains, and simple pendants. Also, soft scarves in flowing fabrics like silk or cashmere can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. And you need a thin belt to define your waist and complete your outfits.
  • Shoes: Choose knee-high boots, ankle boots, ballet flats, loafers, mules, pumps, and stilettos.

How to Dress the Gamine Body Type

The Gamine body type is characterized by a petite frame, youthful features, and a playful, energetic spirit. They are not a blend of the yin or yang. Instead, they possess a combination leading to either petite (yin) or sharp (yang). Usually, people with the Gamine body type have the following attributes:

  • They look petite with angular and straight bones
  • Their shoulders are tapered and sloped 
  • They have long arms and legs
  • Their feet and hands are small and delicate. 
  • You also find they have a straight bustline, waistline, and hips
  • Their facial features are also angular.
Gamine body type

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Gamine Body Type?

Dressing this body type is all about embracing your unique energy and creating looks that are both stylish and fun. Here are some tips and clothing items to help you achieve that:

  • Tops: Look for well-fitted tops that show off your curves and embrace your petite frame. Alternatively, you can choose cropped tops and cropped jackets that can showcase your waist and create a playful, youthful look. Don’t shy away from bright colors and playful patterns. They complement your energetic personality. You should also pick Peter Pan collars and bows when you want a touch of whimsy to your clothes. 
  • Bottoms: High-waisted bottoms to elongate your legs, mini skirts and shorts. You should also prioritize skinny jeans and A-line skirts.
  • Outwear: short cropped jackets and boleros are your perfect selection. Also, choose duster coats and leather jackets. 
  • Accessories: Choose small, delicate accessories that won’t overwhelm your frame. You can also add a touch of personality using a single statement piece, especially your earrings. You may also love wearing berets, fedoras, and other bold hats. 
  • Shoes: Consider high heels that can elongate your legs. Alternatively, choose ballet flats, ankle boots, and loafers. 

How to Dress the Flamboyant Gamine Body Type

The Flamboyant Gamine body type is a unique blend of boyish and androgynous with a touch of unexpected flair. Think angular features, a petite frame, and a strong, confident presence. Usually, anyone with the body type within this Kibbe scale would have the following attributes:

  • Short with very defined musculature 
  • Often lean and strong with straight lines and a flat bust line.
  • If overweight, the body tends to be thick as do the waist and hip area
  • They have a broadly angular bone structure with square shoulders and slightly wide bones
  • Their facial features consist of extremely large eyes, with a broad or long facial shape. 

Dressing this body type is all about embracing your unique energy and creating looks that are both stylish and playful. This means you need to play with proportions and don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and patterns. For instance, you should play with animal prints and geometric patterns. Never shy away from using unexpected color combinations.

Also, choose clothes that are well-fitted and tailored to your petite frame. Avoid overly loose or baggy styles. To accentuate your angles, consider clothes with sharp lines, geometric shapes, and asymmetrical details. And for fabrics, focus more on cotton linen and leather which can help you achieve a more structured look. 

Flamboyant Gamine body type

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Flamboyant Gamine Body Type?

Now let’s talk about the clothing items that are best suitable for this Kibbe type:

  • Tops: Fitted crisp cotton shirts, tailored blouses, and fitted turtlenecks are fantastic selections. Stick to those with details like sharp collars, interesting necklines, and contrasting trips. Also, pick cropped tops and jackets that show off your waist. 
  • Bottoms: Skinny jeans and leggings, high-waisted skirts and shorts. You also need cropped pants and capris. A-line mini or midi skirts are also must-haves for anyone within this Kibbe scale. 
  • Outwear: The best selections for the Flamboyant Gamine Kibbe body type include cropped jackets, bomber jackets, and moto jackets. You also need a well-fitted blazer. Above everything, ensure the coats have clean lines and interesting details such as an asymmetrical hemline or belted waist.
  • Accessories: Pick bold earrings, chunky necklaces, and statement rings. Also prioritize small scarves and hats like berets, fedoras, and other bold hats. You also need wide belts that define your waist and make your silhouette more flattering. 
  • Shoes: High heels, ankle boots, loafers and oxfords. 

How to Dress the Soft Gamine Body Type

The Soft Gamine body type is a unique blend of the Gamine’s playful energy and the Soft Classic’s flowing lines. It’s characterized by a petite frame, youthful features, and a combination of angular and rounded features. Other unique attributes include:

  • Curved bust lines and hips with natural waist definition.
  • Arms tend to be fleshy and soft.
  • Doll-like facial features with round eyes, fleshy cheeks, and full lips.
  • They usually have delicate and small bone structures with small hands and feet.
  • If overweight they become very rounded and can even feel overweight even when at an ideal weight because of their short limbs and round body shape.

Dressing this body type involves finding a balance between youthful energy and effortless sophistication.

Soft Gamine body type

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Soft Gamine Body Type?

Now let’s talk about the correct clothing items that can help you dress your best if this is your Kibbe body type. 

  • Tops: Prioritize fitted tops with soft fabrics like silk, chiffon, or jersey that hug your curves without being too tight. You also need Peplum tops. Regardless, your tops should have boat necks and scoop necks: These necklines flatter your collarbones and create a soft, feminine look. And consider blouses with delicate details like ruffles, lace, and embroidery.
  • Bottoms: Choose high-waisted skirts and shorts.  You also need A-line skirts with soft pleats that add a touch of femininity and movement. And for your jeans and trousers pick skinny jeans or wide-leg pants with a soft drape.
  • Outerwear: Look for short jackets with soft shoulders and delicate embellishments. You also need a duster coat alongside cardigans with intricate knit patterns. 
  • Accessories: Look for delicate jewelry pieces with pearls, gemstones, and playful charms. Consider small colorful scarves. And you could add statement earrings to draw attention to your face. Also, you need a thin belt that can define your waist and add a touch of sophistication.
  • Shoes: Choose strappy sandals and pumps, add height, and elongate your legs. Look for flats with bows, buckles, or other decorative details. Pick ankle boots with a slight heel that can be dressed up or down.

How to Dress the Romantic Kibbe Body Type

The Romantic Kibbe body type is characterized by lush curves, soft features, and a naturally sensual aura. People within this part of the Kibbe scale have the following physical attributes:

  • Delicate and shorter bone structure
  • Sloped shoulders with round edges
  • Short arms and legs
  • Small feet and hands
  • Full bust line, usually an hourglass figure with curvy rounded hips.
  • They have small, delicate facial features with large rounded eyes, full lips, and round cheekbones.. 

Dressing this body type involves accentuating your curves while embracing a sense of femininity and effortless elegance. You need soft flowing fabrics like silk, chiffon, or lace that move with your body. Also, heart-shaped necklines flatter your bust.  That said, always ensure most of your clothes fit well and flatter your curves. 

Romantic body type on the Kibbe Scale

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Romantic Kibbe Body Type?

Here’s how to put together the best clothes for this body type:

  • Tops: Fitted tops like wrap tops, peplum tops, tops with belts. You need tops with lace, ruffles, or embroidery for that touch of romance. 
  • Bottoms: Choose high-waisted skirts and pants. Also, you need A-line skirts and flowing wide-leg pants. Don’t also forget to pick skinny jeans that hug your curves and create a sleek and modern look.
  • Dresses: Pick wrap dresses, fit-and-flare dresses, and flowing maxi dresses.
  • Outwear: Embrace coats with flowing lines and made of soft fabrics like wool or cashmere. Avoid structured coats. Look for cardigans with lace, ruffles, or other feminine embellishments. You also need jackets with soft shoulders. Avoid sharp, angular jackets and opt for styles with softer shoulder lines.
  • Accessories: Opt for pieces with pearls, gemstones, and feminine details. Also choosing soft scarves in flowing fabrics like silk or cashmere can add a touch of elegance. Add a touch of sparkle and draw attention to your face. And use thin belts to define your waist for a more flattering outline. 
  • Shoes: Pumps, stilettos, knee-high boots, and ankle boots are must-haves. Also, Choose ballet flats and loafers. 

How to Dress the Theatrical Romantic Body Type

The Theatrical Romantic is a unique blend of curves and drama. You possess a petite frame with a voluptuous hourglass figure, delicate features, and a touch of the unexpected. Other attributes include:

  • Moderate height to petite
  • Soft and voluptuous with an hourglass figure
  • Curvy bust line and hips with soft fleshy arms
  • They have large luminous eyes, with soft lush facial features.
  • They usually have small hands and feet (directly proportional to their height).
  • Their facial features have a slightly sharp edge to them, especially around the nose, cheekbones, jawline, and shoulders. 
  • If overweight they remain an hourglass with a more defined waist. 

Your style should reflect this captivating blend of femininity and flair. 

Hence, it’s a fantastic idea to embrace your curves and wear clothes that highlight your waist. Pick delicate embellishments like lace, beading, ruffles and bows. To add a touch of the unexpected, play with asymmetrical necklines, hemlines, and details. And,  you should prioritize experimenting with rich colors, luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and interesting textures. 

Theatrical romantic body type on the Kibbe Scale

What are the Best Clothing Items for the Theatrical Romantic Body Types?

For clothing options, here are recommendations:

  • Tops: Prioritize fitted tops that show off your curves and accentuate your waist. Your top choices should be off-the-shoulder tops, draped tops, and tops with embellished necklines. 
  • Bottoms: Choose high-waisted skirts, and A-line skirts with a touch of volume. Also,  prioritize fitted pants with a slight flare to create a leg-lengthening effect. You may also add skinny jeans that hug your curves and create a sleek, modern look.
  • Dresses: Pick wrap dresses, fit-and-flare dresses, sheath dresses with embellished details, and mini dresses that show off your legs and create a playful look.
  • Outerwear: Opt for fitted jackets with embellished details. For instance, you should consider a leather jacket with a lace detailing blazer and embellished buttons. Also, short coats with a nipped-in waist can accentuate your curves. You should also pick dusters with flowing lines.
  • Accessories: Go for statement earrings that draw attention to your face, and complement those with delicate necklaces and bracelets. You also need bold belts that define your waist.
  • Shoes: Your best selections include heels with delicate straps, ankle boots with intricate detailing, and flats with embellishments.

How to Find Your Kibbe Body Type

Looking at all of these clothing recommendations, you may worry about how to make the best use of them. That’s why you need to take a Kibbe body-type quiz. This quiz can help you identify your unique body type. But fret not if you don’t fall perfectly into any of the categories. Most people might still have some features that make them distinctive and outstanding. Furthermore, you can use the Kibbe Body type chart on this page as a visual representation of what the different body types should look like.

Why Choose MakeOutfits.com As Your Outfit Builder 

Getting your Kibbe body text is a fantastic idea. But you can make better use of the clothing recommendations on this page by using our interactive and easy-to-use “Create Your Outfit” tool. This tool allows you to build outfits tailored to their body type and quickly see how they fit your needs. You can even categorize outfits into boards based on your preferences, making it simple to organize looks for different events or moods.

Furthermore, MakeOutfits.com fosters a vibrant community where users can gain inspiration from others’ outfits designed for various occasions. It’s the right place to find outfit inspirations plus quick connections to small boutique brands who can quickly fulfill your outfit needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Kibbe Body Types

How to dress for your body type?

Dressing for your body type involves understanding the unique characteristics of your shape and selecting clothing that enhances your best features. For instance, if you identify as a Romantic Kibbe type, opt for soft fabrics and cinched waists to accentuate your curves. Conversely, Dramatic types should focus on tailored pieces with long lines to create a powerful silhouette. Using the Kibbe body types chart can help you identify the best clothing styles for your specific type, ensuring you wear outfits that flatter your figure and reflect your personal style.

How can I determine my Kibbe body type?

To determine your Kibbe body type, you can take the Kibbe body type quiz available online. This quiz will guide you through questions about your physical characteristics, such as bone structure, body flesh, and facial features. Additionally, observing the key traits associated with each of the 13 Kibbe types can help you narrow down your options. For a more detailed assessment, consider the David Kibbe evaluation, which provides insights based on various attributes like shoulder width and waist definition.

What are some common mistakes when dressing your Kibbe type?

When using the Kibbe scale, it’s important to avoid ignoring the unique characteristics of your body type by wearing styles meant for another type. You shouldn’t also overemphasize certain features that do not compliment your shape. And of course, avoid fabrics that do not align with your Kibbe type. Understanding these pitfalls can help you select outfits that truly flatter your figure.

How can I use the “create outfit” tool on makeoutfits.com to find clothes that fit my Kibbe type?

The “create outfit” tool on makeoutfits.com allows you to easily build outfits tailored to your Kibbe body type. You can start by selecting clothing items recommended for your specific type from the Kibbe body types chart. The tool enables you to categorize outfits based on occasions or personal preferences. Additionally, you can save these outfits to boards for future reference or inspiration. This interactive experience helps ensure that every outfit aligns with your unique style needs while celebrating the diversity within the Kibbe system.

By understanding these aspects of the Kibbe system, you can confidently dress in a way that enhances your natural beauty while utilizing resources like makeoutfits.com to create personalized outfits that resonate with your individual style.

Which kibbe body type is the rarest?

The rarest Kibbe body type is generally considered to be the Flamboyant Natural. This type is characterized by a combination of blunt and angular bones along with lush flesh, making it a unique blend that is not commonly found among the general population 36. Other types, such as Romantics and Classics, are also noted for their rarity, but Flamboyant Naturals stand out due to their specific physical attributes and proportions.

Does Kibbe’s body type change with weight?

Regarding whether the Kibbe body type changes with weight, it is important to note that your body type remains consistent regardless of weight fluctuations. The Kibbe system focuses on the overall proportions and characteristics of your bone structure and flesh rather than the amount of body fat. For instance, someone may gain or lose weight, but their Kibbe type—defined by how their skin hangs on their bones and their natural shape—does not change. This means that even if a person becomes heavier or lighter, they will still belong to the same Kibbe body type

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