Kibbe’s system of 13 body types: how it works + review ǀ Justine Leconte

[@aalin5701]

One thing I've always loved about the Kibbe method is his styling advise is all about echoing how you look in your outfits. If you're a romantic type, full of soft curves, embrace that with flowing garments and soft fabrics. If you're a tall dramatic type celebrate your height by wearing block colours and heavy materials. It's never about 'correcting' or 'balancing out' but about understanding how you look and claiming that individuality. I've always felt really bland in my appearance, like there was nothing distinctive about how I looked. With the kibbe test I came out as 'classic ' and it opened doors into seeing my body as so strength, not something to fight

[@fraufuchs9555]

Exactly. I'm tired of all those people advising us to correct our bodies instead of knowing us better and embracing who we are.

[@dianafromcanada516]

Very interesting comment. Thank you.

[@McCharqui]

exactly! I am the most bland/dull person ever, with almost no visible bone strucutre in my face and skin, freckles, hair and eyes all of the same ashy colour with no contrast and I almost feel invisible. when I dress in dusty, ashy, muted colors (like beige, dusty pink, creme or faded olive green) instead of disappearing further as one would think I shine and I even look expressive and noticable. I love how this approach is all about authenticity and owning what you've got and actually accentuating it instead of trying to balance it out, like you said, and this is what truly compliments one's self

[@gittevandevelde2208]

Indeed! I am a huge advocate in celebrating what you look like and owning it, and both colour analysis and kibbe come into play with this. I'm rather dull myself, with a just 'pretty', classic face. Moderate lips, straight roman nose, mid-sized eyes, slightly curved not-thin-not-bushy eyebrows, oval faceshape etc. I'm the kind of person whose features you can find on those 'different kinds of noses/mouths/faceshapes' charts. I'm pretty skinny, but besides that, I am still slightly curvy but not very (slightly cinched waist, shoulders/hips same measurement) 'soft' with full cheeks. I am a soft classic. Now, with very eclectic things, I quickly look like a clown. But I can also just wear my hair sleeked back in a low bun, put on some coral lipstick and brown mascara, but on some hanging brushed gold earrings and I inmediately look very elegant and interesting. In terms of colouring, I am a lighter Autumn. The look a described previously, add an olive dress with a v-neck line, fitted bodice and a flowing skirt et voila. Elegance ensured. We may look 'boring' in a way, but we don't need much and I love that.

[@bethanyday3471]

...or you could have found your own style instead of depending on some one else to tell you how to dress. there are s**t ton of articles on how to balance out ones body because symmetry is technically, scientifically, the most "beautiful" thing there is, and then almost everyone has some thing about themselves that they hate and want to hide. If you felt bland about your appearance why did you simply not start looking for clothes that you loved and made you feel good? Why did you need a test to tell you what to wear? The whole point of knowing your body type is to know what sort of clothes will fit you well and fit your right, not to determine your personality and style.

[@AlyArt]

Funny! As soon as I saw you I thought - Dramatic Classic. But then later I thought you were FN! DCs are not that tall normally, don't have that long vertical line. Also Kibbe categorised Maryl Strip as Soft Classic from the start in the book. And he says body type doesn't change with age in general - body looks best in it's own lines in all ages - she did become more angular, but she is still soft classic. :) Also on Audrey Hepburn - she was and still is Flamboyant Gamine. Being lean and tall doesn't make you dramatic, you should also take into consideration the proportion of the head to the body, the outline, the bone structure, the flesh structure, the features of your face and their outline - and she is still Flamboyant Gamine and she will still look amazing in FG clothes and she will look a bit washed out in Dramatic lines. Great video!

[@elinljungstrom3932]

I never would have gotten so interested in Kibbe if it wasn't for you, Aly, thank you so much for all you bring to the table on this subject! :)

[@abigailr2654]

Yes which means she would look better in shorter hair in my opinion no?

[@marialansky]

Justine and Aly, love both of your channels, vibes and the way you're both very authentic to yourselves. Justine, I agree with Aly - as soon as I saw you, I thought of Dramatic Classic!

[@sarah-bethhogg]

Aly your quiz ws the most helpful and easy to understand - especially because you gave visual examples. Thank you so much!

[@JW-uq9yt]

Exactly, Also, Audrey Hepburn is a flamboyant gamine as a combination with yin and Yang and more leaning towards yang.

[@mariap1087]

I like this typing system better because it’s more about playing up to your unique qualities rather than adjusting to fit an ideal ie: hourglass or oval face.

[@justineleconte]

Hourglass should not be "the" ideal, actually. I see it like this: once you know your type, no matter which one it is, it gets easier to choose clothes that highlight the parts you like and/or minimize the parts you don't like. E.g. there are many hourglass ladies who would prefer to "tune down" their curves...

[@mariap1087]

Justine Leconte officiel not saying it “should” be the ideal but most fashion advice I’ve seen over the years in some form of media more often than not advises wearing certain clothing or cutting your hair to look more hourglass shaped or create a more oval face. In America at least. In other countries it could be different. The point is that the language creates the thought of ‘having to look more like...” rather than a dialogue that says “this suits me best and bring out my ___ qualities”.

[@katefreeman7641]

When I went to beauty school we learnt to contour to make the face look more oval because it was "ideal"

[@mariap1087]

Kate Chandler bleh. F-that. I like bringing out features (or balancing if foundation creates flatness). Are you in the states too?

[@katefreeman7641]

Maria P agree! I'm in Australia

[@celiar.7830]

i discovered this system 2 years ago thanks to the youtuber Aly Art. For me this system is more acurate that the 5 shapes thing because i don´t fit in nonne of those shapes , also the shapes thing tells you how to correct your body visually while kibe´s system tells you how embrance your body wich is a thing that i love

[@dianafromcanada516]

Thanks for this comment. Makes me want to look more into the Kibbe method.

[@GinaMarieCheeseman]

I like the Kibbe system also. I don't fit into the other system, but within the Kibbe system I'm a theatrical romantic which fits me.

[@martusiagrziw]

Yes! I never understood why i look so bad in everything recommend. Well i am soft gamine, so no typical "adult" clothes for me, which every one recommended me obviously (i am 30, so i dont blame them)

[@bellaluna423]

Justine is the clearest, free of bias, most uplifting beauty and style blogger. Love this channel

[@thehalfbloodserb]

Audrey Hepburn is a Flamboyant Gamine; she has a lot of squareness in her overall body and even though she may be taller than expected, she still looks short. The height thing is more to do with how tall you look or how big your head is compared to your body. Aly Art and Merriam Style explain it really well. For instance, Lucy Liu is a Dramatic despite being shorter than Audrey because she looks like she'd be taller if you look at them separately.

[@MsCristea]

True that...Even her face is obviously very square and angular - less obvious on photos (which are taken fro the right angle) and more obvious in movies. Her Givenchy dresses follow Gamine lines - broken silhouette (if they the colour is not broken, then the line is), crisp, small details, small geometrics, high necks, etc. Some people put her in Classic, but I have yet to see her in Classic lines. Moreover, it is very easy to draw a caricature of Audrey Hepburn...

[@princejiminofbusan9209]

It’s called the vertical line

[@cancertiger5310]

Sorry thehalfbloodserb, Audrey can't still look short or tall, as she died in 1993!

[@sounsure9108]

thehalfbloodserb I always thought Audrey Hepburn was short, like the actress that plays Victoria now so there you go

[@JW-uq9yt]

@@MsCristea I agree!

[@palexisboyle]

Aly Art is a stylist who uses this Kibbe system. It has helped me filter out pieces in my wardrobe that were not flattering and incorporate things that are. Kibbe's body types also helped me to analyze my own style tendencies and explained why I gravitate towards particular looks. I am a flamboyant gamine in the body with a soft gamine face. Now I do my hair and makeup to suit my face type let my body determine clothing selections and accessories. I've gotten many more compliments on my style as a whole since I've discovered the Kibbe system. You have helped me with deciphering quality in fabrics and shoes, though!

[@tomjones2157]

Aly Art is a singer in a band, not a stylist. She started talking about kibbe as she was interested in what made women beautiful and read Kibbe's book. The youtube response was huge so her videos have now gone in that direction.

[@akludnna]

David Kibbe himself doesn’t recommend the test anymore actually! He’s trying to get people to realise that finding your type is your own personal journey to find out the yin/yang balance that’s unique to you :) I find his approach to be a very healthy way to see yourself and fashion

[@justineleconte]

I agree!

[@crystallam7335]

Anna Novotna I really like his approach to see ourselves too ❤️

[@ireneg.m.9365]

I know myself much better thanks to his test! I see it as an excellent starting point to observe all of our parts and features, from head to toe, and learn to see ourselves as a whole without judging what we see, even when our characteristics are mixed. I have also realised that my body expresses my inner self in some way. I am what he calls a theatrical romantic and it actually reflects my personality. For a long time I had been mainly focusing on my yang energy and when I started embracing my yin again, I felt much more authentic and balanced. I have also considered some of his recommendations and learnt about fabrics, textures, silouettes, etc. Then I realised that there were so many parallels with what I already liked, but I was confused with fashion and dressing conventions at the same time and I ended up wearing basics and simple outfits most of the time. Now I feel finally free to honour my own style and mix and match my preferred pieces and elements creatively instead of copying strategies to balance my figure or imitating beautiful styles which do not represent me. I find the 5 body type useful to learn about volume and balance but I consider it to be simplistic, kind of prescriptive and thus less useful to learn about what your own style really is.

[@beautyofdawn9565]

@@ireneg.m.9365 As a fellow TR girl, I fully agree with your comment!

[@garlicgirl3149]

I wonder why? I don't find the test restrictive.

[@sheri6089]

My personal opinion is that you are a dramatic classic. Fits your sharp facial features and your descriptions of the rest of you.

[@cherriercheung]

My answers are mostly D and Es (romantic) and my BMI is 20-21, which is on the lower end of healthy range. It’s extremely frustrating to get dressed nowadays. Seems like brands automatically assume girls size 4 and under are all poles and have no curves. It’s even more frustrating that when a brand recently released their “curvy” jeans, size 26 and below seem exactly like the original shape with very little accommodation to my hips.

[@gittevandevelde2208]

Indeed! I am 'just' a soft classic, so not THAT curvy, but I still have curves and a BMI of 16, so very skinny (naturally) and It's already difficult to find well-fitting clothes, particularly dressed and high-waisted skirts and pants, as there's such a difference betwene my hip and waist measurement. I have a waist-hip ratio of 0.69. Because I'm so skinny, I can't shop in the 'curvy' section, at all, and there just aren't jeans small enough for my waist in most brands.

[@Elena-gv5wi]

i've had the same issue and now I just have most of my clothing tailored, even jeans. I buy clothing that fits my thighs and butt and have everything else taken in. form fitted dresses are the most difficult because the bust and shoulders usually have to be taken in and it's expensive, and sometimes the tailor can't do it. I'm and theatrical romantic with a pear shaped body and my waist is higher up compared to most people. I though losing weight (5 ft 6 inches, from 150 to 125 pounds) would help, but nope.

[@tomjones2157]

@@Elena-gv5wi Try a wrap dress with feminine details or pattern. I'm a TR and they work for me as long as they aren't too flouncy or geometric and have some detail. I often add a lacy camisole that peeps out to add detail if the dress isn't ornate enough.

[@talktome120]

It's so true that every epoch has a particular body type ideal. I feel like modern fashion is based on natural type and I find it really hard to find STYLISH clothes for romantic and classic type! I need to go back in time, when feminine style was trendy :)

[@magicalspacegiraffe]

With the Kibbe system, they don't suggest that being a romantic type means wearing romantic style clothing (eg, floral dresses with bows for an extreme example). The idea is to recognize the lines of your natural body and mimic those in your clothing. So, romantic type- rounded lines would mean rounded collar, belted coat to add the curve back etc. For natural- finding items that are not too extreme , nor a mix of soft/sharp. With that in mind, different collar types are available, different hemlines, different coats (that don't all have padded shoulders), different fabrics, so you just skip what doesn't mimic your softness/sharpness. That being said, if you go in a romantic style boutique, you won't find many heavy fabrics, straight sharp lines (ala the still popular minimalist style has), so it makes sense if you already gravitate to that fashion style.

[@HotaraTakeo]

Style is never out of fashion ;)

[@zdoriksandorik]

same. i'm a theatrical romantic, with a very prominent features and all the clothes that are sold nowadays, you know, baggy, oversized, straight, tends to just look like a big tent on me) that's a big pain especially when it comes to pants) they are just not made with the consideration of wider hips-smaller waist.

[@aimeecoquillat2096]

Space Giraffe l

[@desiree2086]

I'm a natural but for me it's just as hard to find stylish clothes.. lot's of clothes make my shoulders look bigger (which I don't want to) and high waisted jeans/skirt etc mostly don't fit because I have no waist..

[@clairekurdelak2913]

I am one of the people who asked your opinion on this! Thank you, well done. I prefer the Kibbe method because in it you embrace the lines you have and dress in harmony with yourself, rather than trying to correct for what you have in order to fake a “perfect” hourglass feminine shape.

[@ebatdorf9991]

I like the Kibbe system. Most people do hourglass or petite, but I am both (Theatrical Romantic). Only Kibbe seems to account for that. I think a lot of people talking about petite girls are referring to strictly "Gamines." Also, even getting down to a size zero, I still found that I had softness. Only after learning my Kibbe type did I stop hating my softness and thinking of it as "fat."

[@LoReal021]

Kibbe's system helped me embrace my softness as well :) My BMI is normal, even slightly on the lower side, yet I still look soft and wide. Turns out I am just a soft gamine :)

[@oheyethere]

Exactly the same as me!

[@susquahallasmiley3262]

my mom is a theatrical romantic! she is still hot at 78

[@ebatdorf9991]

@@susquahallasmiley3262 That's what I aspire to!

[@holliisixx]

You don't find that "softness" beautiful and feminine at all?

[@thehalfbloodserb]

If you're unsure about your body shape you can figure it out by trying on outfits of the 5 main types, taking photos and seeing what suits your lines the best (I'd recommend Merriam Style's video for this method). In my opinion, the fact that you got 50% A and 50% C, as well as your overall look suggests that you'd be a Dramatic Classic. The high number of C answers is a dead giveaway (other types won't have a lot of C answers, especially not half, no matter the person). Of course, it's hard to say what type you are for certain since you have a very well defined style wardrobe (nothing wrong with that, it's just hard to compare how different styles look on you). But I can definitely see simple, clean symmetrical lines with a slight masculine cut suiting your body really well. Also I think Classic makeup looks the best on you while Dramatic makeup can look a little heavy or separate (I do think you make it work with your outfits, but it requires more effort). This alone convinced me you're some sort of Classic tbh. But yes, the hair and makeup should definitely go with the overall body shape since otherwise your head will look separate to your body. I'm a theatrical romantic with more yang in my face, so even though my face alone fits Gamine I find wearing theatrical romantic makeup suits me more and makes my whole body look more harmonious. I found Aly Art's videos to be invaluable in this process as she answered a lot of the confusion I had about my body. Now, I cannot even imagine how I could be any other type.

[@skinnflugu]

According to Kibbe himself (who went online a couple years ago, I believe he, or his wife rather, is still on Facebook), it was the editors of the book who wanted him to do a test (which he didn't love) and make it more of an obvious system. He himself doesn't work like that (I've seen some of his makeovers/typing and been very surprised by some). He also says you can't be a mix between two types (and he's very adamant on height being important, so no tall gamines). He's also ditched some if the true types, namely Natural, Gamine and Classic. According to him people typically are either more yin or yang.

[@justineleconte]

Thanks for the insights

[@roxemary]

I don't see the problem with the pure types! Nobody is 100% one type, sure, but remove whole categories because one or another parameter is a little off? It makes the system more incomplete (and harder to understand at first, too)

[@KikiMav]

Kibbe advices people to not follow the test, as it is flawed and has many limitations. He believes that the test often leads to people restricting themselves instead of exploring their beauty. He advices people to focus more on the big picture and the overall Yin Yang balance. Anyone interested can find more insight on his method in the FB group "strictly Kibbe". At any case , this is a nice introductory video! Great job Justine.

[@abcd43373]

@@KikiMav hi! I've searched about that group on Facebook, but I can't join :( it sends me to a Google form that doesn't exist anymore. Do you know anything about it?

[@valeriem6187]

Exactly, gamines have to be the shorter side, so Audrey Hepburn And Meryl Streep can't be gamines because they are tall.

[@IuliaBlaga]

This is not the first time I hear of this method but I love your way of explaining! :)

[@janeolinger8038]

I've only recently been introduced to the Kibbe system (through Audrey Coyne's channel) and found it very liberating for me. I am 100% Theatrical Romantic and really see my "similarity" to women like Vivian Leigh and Elizabeth Taylor (minus the gorgeousness, of course). I was born in 1949 when this body type was more the norm, but I was a teen in the 60's when I certainly did not fit in. Even though I am now 71, I feel an almost rewriting of my history and a sense of self accepting that is very moving. It is also helping me understand while I can't relate well to some current style influencers even if I like their approach. Thanks for your take on this.

[@ugnebajoriniene3046]

I found myself to be true Natural. It helps me to dress, wear make up and hair better. Even to celebrate that sporty girls can be considered beautiful. And my colour type is soft autumn. SO everything in my style can be harmonious now :D On the other hand, I love that you showed limits of this methods and I understand that it is not for everybody.

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

Kibbe doesn't use true Natural anymore, just Soft Natural and Flamboyant Natural.

[@Anita-silver]

Does he say why he dropped natural? And how does one determine soft or flamboyant then. Confusing...

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

Yes, he's said why, don't remember though. I think he said that your either FN or SN, that there's nothing in between. Just like with the Gamines, and Classics. The only ones that has a main type is Dramatics and Romantics, the two extreme types. You should check out Aly Arts videos about Body Types, she goes through everything, you can find them here: kzbin.info/aero/PLjq1drkA_Cmn-bSUsQqAaLZcrIHQCN8vO

[@Anita-silver]

Thanks for the info and the link. I'm familiar with Aly Arts but haven't seen all these videos so looking forward to seeing them.

[@julijakeit]

I see Justine video, I click, I like, sometimes I comment. I love you!

[@katehochbaum8941]

I would definitely consider you a dramatic classic, Justine.

[@justineleconte]

So more on the dramatic side? Interesting...

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

Dramatic Classics often have more pear shape bodies too. And one shouldn't go after how the face look anyway so. Miranda Kerr is an Flamboyant Natural but she has a baby face. She would look so wrong in romantic style.

[@katehochbaum8941]

@@justineleconte the more dramatic side of the classic type, yes. The blunt bones in your face that led you to consider your face more natural type would be the extra yang keeping you from being a pure classic. So classic, tailored items with a little extra sharpness would be perfect (and is pretty much exactly what you already wear 😊).

[@hoebihoebi2536]

@@Jenny-ru4hf I don't think Miranda Kerr has a baby face, whenever she smiles the muscles in her face is so prominent. I think what creates the misconception of her being more yin is because she has Ingenue essence. Like Selena Gomez for example, when you put them next to someone who's actually got a baby-ish face the bluntness and broad structure shows more.

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

@@hoebihoebi2536 Yes, that's true. But since she has the ingenue essence, she often looks younger than other people her age.

[@diffsiuhgr4578]

kibbe's system literaly saved my life and my female friend's too because as women we are taught not to love ourselves the way we are, and kibbe does the contrary. he teaches us to know ourselves, to love ourselves, and to wear lines that already exist in our own body. i'm sorry but your video makes me feel like you just didn't understand this system and that you should study further.

[@Sexxxyism]

Indeed. Justine incorrectly pointed out that the more yin body types are "out of fashion." In fact there are many Theatrical Romantics such as Selma Hayek, Mila Kunis and many others. Curves are sexy. Furthermore, your body type does not change with age or weight.

[@melaniejohnson5997]

Thank you Justine for covering this system. It took a lot of reading for a year to fully determine my type. But it really helped me to shape my style and find flattering clothes for my body. I'm a theatrical romantic.

[@kestrelravensong6056]

Thank you for this video! It's such a useful insight. I had spent my life obese, and so an obvious romantic type with an hourglass shape. However, having lost 70+ lbs, I am only now seeing my actual bone structure. I fit into the classic type, but I have gotten to the point where I am quite muscular. I feel that once I am at my goal weight (about another 25 lbs) I will have to reassess everything again. I am no longer an hourglass shape. If anything, I lean toward an apple shape, and perhaps even a rectangle by the conclusion of the weight loss journey. And my face hasn't changed shape, I can just actually see my jawline now. I always thought I had a round face, but nope... It's very clearly a heart. I don't think it is wise to settle into any one "box" for your entire life. I love that you made the point about age being a consideration. It truly does factor in. Again, I love this video and all of your content. Thank you!

[@kestrelravensong6056]

Thank you so much! I do feel very happy with my efforts. It's nice to see results from hard work. A nice life lesson!

[@bostongirl3137]

Congratulations on your weight loss! May I ask what method you used for your weight loss? Keep up the great work and effort!

[@kestrelravensong6056]

@Boston girl313 I went on the AIP (auto-immune protocol) diet for about a year to discover food sensitivity. After that, I knew that the Ketogenic diet would suit me. I lost about 20 lbs on AIP, and around 50 on Keto. Keep in mind that I also have a fairly active lifestyle and am used to eating a lot of the foods on those diets. My best advice is to always listen to your body! There is no right or wrong, just what keeps you feeling at your optimal levels! I hope this helps.

[@Tabbyhasbees]

Hmmm, I am not totally sold on this, but I do actually think it's valuable and helps explain why though I have a very yin/feminine body, I look ridiculous in 'girly' clothes like ruffles, lace, flounces--I have very yang features. Not sure what to do with this info yet, but it's definitely something to think about.

[@eizhowa]

I feel the same. I have a lot of feminine features, but somehow look better when I don't exaggerate them too much. I think I am mostly natural.

[@nataliebutler]

I'm a 'soft dramatic' which is an equal blend of yin and yang.

[@laululla]

Kibbe system is more suiting for me than bodytype, as my body isn't clearly pear/rectangular/hourglass but something in between. The test didn't help me find my type, but give directions. I have been more ruling out types to find my type. Gamine and romantic clothes with small details look bad on me. I don't hsve balanced facial features... So no classic. I have narrow bones so even some natural sofr flowy clothes looks good on me, I am not true natural. That kind of clothes make me look small, what I like. So only one type left. Dramatic. I have softness in my features, even when I was super skinny. So my type is soft dramatic. That makes me understand more how to make me look my best.

[@shristisahoo5724]

I am so glad you simplified the system.I used to also very biased in my answers.I echo your thoughts on the limitations too.You are doing an amazing job...absolutely love your channel.

[@laurenbaker3198]

I appreciate how you tactfully addressed the issue of weight gain and aging. Thank you for being thoughtful and not judgmental.

[@robertotodaro6673]

Know theyself,this is the best way to aproach modern day style and still b able to express your own individuality,i worked with david kibbe in his nyc studio for a few years,witnessed many great and happy clients!

[@NancySchober]

I like my classification within the Kibbes system bcs it allows me to narrow my focus within the infinite choice of apparel these days. The apple/pear thing doesn't work on me, I'm short waisted so better described as a "spoon"...

[@karanwe]

Justine, sorry for going off-topic and probably being too personal here, but I must say it, I love the way that you are sticking to your natural teeth line-up...and haven't done any alterations there, as I can see...This is really such a comforting thing to see these days when not only celebrities, but also vloggers/bloggers/influencers especially, as long as they have money, start changing every part of their appearance, teeth coming first, as I can observe...Thank you for keeping it natural and reassuring me that I don't have to be perfect either, meaning don't have to stick to society's definiction of perfection...

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

According to Kibbe, even a Dramatic can have bigger bust, they don't have to be completely straight to be a Dramatic.

[@AngelHonolulu]

I watch a lot of YT content-providers, and really appreciate you. You’re clear, logical, and perfectly-paced. You choose information to share that is useful, and you cut to the chase without sacrificing a pleasing flow of context. Your work is great quality; thank you for what you do.🌟

[@raraavis7782]

I love Kibbe...found it actually helpful in choosing more flattering clothes.

[@justineleconte]

Do you know your type?

[@raraavis7782]

@@justineleconte I'm definitely a natural, though unsure about the subtypes...possibly flamboyant. One thing this has led me to try, for example, is more loose, unstructured clothes...especially coats and jackets. I always hought they would make me look blocky and masculine, but they're actually more flattering on me, then tight, tailored stuff. I'm more on the athletic side though, anyway, which makes this body type even more pronounced, I think. The first time, I watched a video about Kibbe, I immediately went: 'Yep. That's me' ☺

[@robins.7118]

another thing is the question: do you like your kibbe type? only then you can emphasizing on it. Because I am leaning towards romantic and absoluteley don´t like it, so I dress more masculine. Don´t care what my type would look good in it or what other people say about it.

[@raraavis7782]

Val L. Well, I only really care about being comfortable, really...if it was socially acceptable, I would dress in athlesure wear all day, every day. I only dress up if and when I have to, and then, looking as good as possible with as little effort as possible is the main objective. So for me, it’s immensely helpful to know what suits me and what doesn’t, because it’s not about expressing my personality or style, it’s just a practical matter of making a good impression on others.

[@cymo512]

Justine Leconte officiel Dear Justine, I immediately thought that you were a Dramatic in the Kibbe system. In my opinion that doesn’t mean you are less feminine. Just because someone has a Romantic body, doesn’t mean they are “feminine.” You are very feminine looking and your body seems statuesque.

[@Marsolan]

I view this video as a first impression of the kibbe types. It took me forever to overcome the pitfalls of the test and get a value out of this. I do think it has value but it is a complex system. Yes, some people spend years learning it and can use it successfully but, man, it takes time and patience. In that respect I agree with Justine - it is complex!! I also agree with many commenters that it is useful once you invested enormous amount of hours. And for anyone who is unhappy with thier wardrobe , kibbe system will inform you and guide you to find your harmonious style.

[@cianap.281]

Justine, when I consider you as a dramatic classic, it makes sense in terms of the jewelry you design and clothing you often wear. The jewelry proportions are not big elaborate Liz Taylor style romantic creations or bold, severe dramatic styles, but rather understated in size, moderate in flashiness. They suit a classic of some type, and they look great on you. And considering your signature understated-with-red-lip makeup that also is harmonious and not over-the-top, I also think points to you being some sort of classic. I think the clothes you wear tend to fall between dramatic classic and natural lines, and it's tough to imagine you looking comfortable in dramatic lines (stiff long boxy silhouettes). Also tough to imagine you in theatrical romantic lines, as others in the comments have suggested you're theatrical romantic.

[@OliveraK]

I took the test a few days ago and it answered my cry for help. I am finally in harmony with myself, being soft natural. What I don't like is that smoky eyes are not my best friends, but embracing who I really am makes a whole new world of creativity to me. If you have fifty-fifty dramatic and classic results, you are a dramatic-classic type.

[@katrinablanchalle8269]

Thanks for reviewing this system. You've hit on the two issues I always run up against. One, people's bodies are often a different type from their faces, so should I dress for my dramatic/natural body, or my classic/gamine face? Two, no style analyst has ever answered the question of aging to my satisfaction. When my tall, angular body develops large round curves through the natural aging process, have I moved from yang to yin and now should change my style of dressing completely? I feel these style systems are too vague and create more questions than they answer.

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

Meryl Streep is a Soft Classic. She always has been. Audrey Hepburn is a Flamboyant Gamine. (A yang gamine)

[@nikkiarch1828]

Meryl Streep looks like a drag queen....

[@sounsure9108]

Really did you read that somewhere? I wouldn’t of said that to bony or or masculine Not a drag queen though I think she is beautiful

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

@@sounsure9108 David Kibbe has said it himself.

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

@@nikkiarch1828 ? No, she doesn't.

[@gem2148]

OMG i literally gasped for air when I read the notification! I'm so so so glad you are making this video about this interesting topic.. I've been introduced to it through *Aly Art* She has a series about it which i found very very interesting and helpful.. And since you are my other favorite style guru, I wished that you would make video/series about it too, AND YOU DID! YAAY I wish to see a detailed series about it from you as well.. Like styles, clothes, makeup, accessories, shoes, bags, hair etc for body types! Well, I guess I'm going to work what I learned from Aly on you, uhmmm, I guess you are SOFT DRAMATIC I'll watch the video and see if I got it right ;) Edit : I guess I got it right, you had 50/50% answers, you lie in the middle between DRAMATIC & CLASSIC, which means you either Dramatic Classic OR Soft Dramatic.. Soft Dramatic tend to be taller than Dramatic Classic Since you are a bit tall, then Soft Dramatic would be more accurate.. The Chart that Aly did in this video is very helpful, I suggest you check it out kzbin.info/www/bejne/opOxY6OIg76Eobc

[@ekaterinakozlovskaia8082]

Hi Justine. Really interesting as usual. Never heard of this method. Learned something new. However I prefer the 5 shapes, method that you use. Way more user friendly. Thanks a lot!

[@laughloveshop2618]

Audrey Hepburn is a Dramatic (flamboyant) Gamine, and you are a Dramatic Classic. These are real Kibbe types. I don’t see a problem here. I wonder if it would be best for these types of things (the Kibbe system, the seasonal color analysis system, etc) if you would at least talk to a person trained in these systems, if not even have them in your video.

[@MrLisbethsalamander]

Thank you Justine, I looked forward to this since i found about the Kibbe method. I think you are right, the test is confussing at the beginning, i'm between two bodytypes too, but i find it really useful to know what's the "tendency" of your body and to consider parts of our body that we used to ignore when we try to classify. Have you seen Aly Art's body type series? She made an amazing work with the Kibbe method. P.D. I always thought you were a dramatic classic. That and flamboyant gamine were the trickiest of all for me to understand.

[@sattvadevi]

Indira Andrea Pérez Yes Aly Art, and also Merriam Style!

[@margaritaeklund4311]

I love merriam style videos, they really tackle the problem of not fitting into one category. She explains very well how you can still find your tendencies and wear the best lines for your body, even if you don’t fall neatly in one box.

[@papercrown8609]

I was waiting for this from you

[@papercrown8609]

Btw you look fabulous today

[@justineleconte]

Thanks!

[@watsonandbscuriousdays]

what really helped me find my kibbe type was to forget about the test and just try on the different styles of clothes (see Aly Art) and make-up for the different body types. all the sudden it was so clear to me, that I felt a bit surprised, that I didn’t realize that earlier. I’m a SN and the simple task of defining my waist (slightly not too overdone!) with e.g. tucking in my shirt in the front (not all the way) made me feel so amazing. I wouldn’t have dared that before, because I didn’t really like my middle until then. understanding the kibbe type, made me so much more confident. now i accentuate instead of hide things and it feels great. this idea actually fits in with many things you say in your videos Justine, merci!

[@olyadushka]

I think that you might have started learning about Kibbe's system with a bias towards 5-types system. Even presented in the video examples of "system not being perfect" feel like a reason to disregard the system: Meryl Streep's face structure is present throughout different ages and she stays within the same type, while Audrey Hepburn was always a Flamboyant Gamine and her unique features (child-like face but long angular body) are still within the system. A system of 13 types that takes into account height and bone structure is a lot more versatile and yields more accurate results comparing to a system of 5 types. I'm surprised to hear such opinion from a clothing designer. Personal anecdote: i still have no idea which of the 5 types describes me, and none of the clothing advice for any of the types actually fits and compliments me. However I was able to find my place within the Kibbe system relatively easy and the clothing advice is actually helpful.

[@tomjones2157]

I heard elsewhere she has a yang masculine face and narrow childlike body?

[@dogsandrabbits1]

The Kibbe system is too messy, but you made it much clearer to understand. I especially appreciate your thoughtful critique of this system's limitations. I don't believe that anyone could put people's body types into clear-cut boxes! Love your videos; I learn so much from them. :)

[@mariap1087]

Audrey Hepburn is a flamboyant gamine. Merriam Style and Aly Art have really good videos on the Kibbe system. Justine, I think I would label you as Flamoyant Natural.

[@adeleg4759]

But fn are inverted triangles (very strong shoulders) , Justine is a pear

[@mariap1087]

Ki ra True. Maybe flamboyant gamine then... I said FN bc I remember before she stated her height I was surprised that she’s actually taller than me. Her face is very angular tho. I’d have to look at more full body videos I guess. Or! Dramatic classic possibly (haven’t looked into this type too much)

[@roxemary]

@@mariap1087 dramatic classics have a very diferent face (ex Nina Dobrev). I'd say soft natural, which is the "next" cathegorie

[@adeleg4759]

@@mariap1087 haha we just illustrated her dilemna

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

Kibbe himself has said that face doesn't matter. Miranda Kerr is an FN and she has a babyface. If she would have gone after her face then she would have been a romantic, which she's not. One should only go after how the clothes looks on the body.

[@dianethompson9525]

I read his book quite awhile ago, but I loved it and have given many speeches to other hairdressers on his principles! I would put you as a classic. You have the yang cheekbones, jaw and height, but your hair color, eyes, and lips are more yin. Judging by how long your hair is-I wouldn’t put you as any kind of dramatic! Dramatics like change and variety with their hair and are up for anything-while classics think a half inch trim is a change! You also seem to pick clothes that have classic lines, not fussy nor high contrast or “in you face” attention seeking! That is my opinion on your type according to Kibbe’s principals as I interpreted them! No matter what type you are-you are lovely and informative!!

[@tomjones2157]

Very long straight hair in one color IS dramatic

[@JoannaNowickaKohrinn]

Aly Art did a series of videos on this subject. With examples and explenation.

[@lucietaylor3162]

I am fascinated by this system, I am very short & curvy, I have a large bust & big bottom. Before I took the test I thought I was an hourglass or Romantic but I didn’t feel comfortable in the garments a Romantic would wear. Last year I cut off my long hair into a pixi and it really suits me. I have high wide cheek bones. I now think I am a Soft Gamine, or rather an overweight Gamine!! I love your channel Justine 💗

[@mirandaosmelak480]

I am really glad you made an "outsider" video about this system, I really like it myself but for me, it only confirmed what I knew instinctively and came to with my closet purges. I disagree with what you said about taking different parts of advice for face/body, it is not your best look as it gives an impression that these are separate and they are not. I think you are dramatic from what I have seen. BUT you may just not like dramatic clothing the most, clothing expresses ourselves and you may want to send a different message. I don't think we should let any system categorise and define us! Nevertheless, his recommendations are flattering, there is no denying. And I totally agree with weight loss/gain and age, it can be confusing.

[@portfolioFS]

I find that what's helpful with these systems & types is it rebalances the assessment from 'why I don't look good in these clothes' to 'why these clothes don't look good on me'. This help to build a smaller wardrobe with pieces that I enjoy wearing. Thanks for offering ways to explore these options :-)

[@pinyrose]

Hey, Justine! I got really curious about this Kibbe system, and I looked into what your results would be based on your Instagram pictures, and I really think you're a Soft Dramatic. You have generally larger and longer bone structure with strong features on your face (prominent cheekbones!). You have a curvier silhouette than a fully Dramatic body type, but generally have a long and lean, more angled frame. Hope this helps! Great video by the way, this topic was so intriguing and kept me occupied all day with trying to learn more!

[@roses6564]

What a charismatic person you are, Miss Justine! I never fail to notice this while watching your videos! That French cliche "je ne sais quoi"?...Well, you have it in spades!

[@sinaendrulat5976]

I am so excited you did the kibbe test because a did it a while ago and i love that thre are more categories because i cant find my type within the "classiy" tests becaue i am some kind of a narrow hourglass. I think I am a soft classic. I did the test From Aly Art here on you tube she has a series with lots of examples thats really helpful! And also she is a cutie

[@brittonrs26]

I would actually categorize you as a dramatic classic. Your body and features are really nicely balanced, with the dramatic features in your face and hands. I believe that Jacqueline Onassis was also a dramatic classic, and her features remind me so much of yours.

[@isabellapattinson1437]

I have been wanting you to do this topic. Thank you for the video. It was amazing. Love you and love your channel.

[@LittleGreenPearl]

Yay! I’ve known about this method for a year now and I’m happy you’re talking about it now.

[@marmor3957]

Justine, you don't know how hype I am about you made this video

[@sherrileeforbush7407]

Age certainly plays a part. Because when I was young I was a dramatic and now I’m definitely a classic. It was fun to take but your system is much easier. Really enjoy your videos, they are informative about fashion and how it applies in real life.

[@lllovesalll]

Haha I'm unclassified! Thanks for doing this video. I love your videos so much that it took a lot of will power to pause and go take the test before continuing!! The system isn't super practical or as reliable as say simply measuring the hip-waist-bust ratio. It puts is into categories that as you say, don't change over time. I feel a test should be for now, not for always. Very open to human error! Which is apparently what happened when I took the test :)

[@funkycandles]

Great reasoning on the Kibbe's system. I couldn't fit into a precise category myself, what's more I found myself to be in between two subtypes that are opposite, but I'm definitely not the "pure" type. I liked Kibbe's system very much, though, because it is spot on with recommendations for the subtypes: cuts, patterns, textures, makeup, jewelry, etc. I think the holistic approach provides amazing insights and can be used to great advantage if taken as a guide that you can personalize according to your own preferences. In my case, I combine recommendations for Flamboyant and Soft Natural , even though it doesn't make much sense according to the system.

[@TSedai]

Nada Š I think it makes sense to “borrow” from other subtypes if you are going for a certain look or personal style. Merriam Style had a really interesting video about “Cheating in Your Kibbe” - basically she was saying how if you strategically borrow elements from closely related categories you can change the way your style looks. IE, if you pull from something slightly more yang, it can emphasize your yin because it will make you look more delicate in comparison to the clothes. She doesn’t recommend jumping all over the map - I think we can all agree if you find a Kibbe category the recommendations are really great - but if you are smart about breaking the Kibbe rules you can create some interesting style juxtapositions for yourself and create different moods with your clothes.

[@59lauralou]

I love your videos and have learned so much! I wish I had known these fashion tips when I was younger. Would you please consider doing a guide for the more “mature” woman? I am 66 and want to look classic, up to date, but age appropriate without looking dowdy. French women appear to do this well! Thank you, Laura in USA

[@lizett3465]

I took the test a while ago and turned out to be a Flamboyant Natural. The result was spot on. Even my personal clothing style, which I found after many years of experimenting, fit Kibbe's recommendations perfectly. So I would say it is not so much a question of bias, but more that of realistic self-assesment and the overall "esprit"/"aura" of the person.

[@pamkikay1191]

Helpful and tricky. I am confused on where to categorize my body type. It's hard when you have a little bit of all category.

[@justineleconte]

I agree, it is harder to get a clear picture when your features are a mix of different categories.

[@Quebecusa]

Thank you Justine! I love your scientific way to analyze things. You are wonderful! Have a great day!

[@nursen2106]

Audrey Hepburn is easy to categorize. You have to consider, that actresses can change their type for a movie with a lot of things. To be more accurate one has to look at them, when they not playing a role. It is not confusing. You just have to skip actors in there move parts. That is a must. A lot of the time they were changed and dressed up to achieve a certain effect. I is not with everyone like it was for Marilyn Monroe or Grace Kelly. Most of the time they were casted alonge side their own type. And it was easier to do that with these two, because they were one of the main bodytypes. Not so versitile. Not so easy to change and still look naturally the role, they should play.

[@adriabanks240]

This reminds me a bit of the system that many stylists use to address proportion and prints with people. I attended a short seminar with a woman who was knowledgeable about the terms used to categorize people by height & proportion back in the 80s/90s: dramatic, town & country, classic, natural, and romantic. Dramatic obviously was the term used for those who were tall, angular, and could easily wear large, bold prints. Town & Country was the term for what Kibbe calls "natural": taller than average, more sporty, slightly less dramatic prints. Classic was, well, classic: moderate in every way. Natural was Kibbe's "gamine": able to wear more athletic styles, like Town & Country, but with smaller proportions and smaller prints. Romantic was the same. I know a woman who is about 5'10, long wavy auburn hair, almond eyes with balanced features, and a lush figure, who rocks a romantic style with larger prints in softer colours. I am a Classic regardless of what test I take, lol. With the Kibbe test, I scored slightly higher in Dramatic Classic (4 a-b ansers) than in Romantic Classic (3 d-e answers). This also follows with my colouring (Pure Cool)--I can wear dramatic colours but should stick with moderately-sized prints (not a big fan of prints personally, but when I do wear them...).

[@liciniagouveia]

Hi Justine! This is a great video you managed to put together regarding this matter: keeping it simple and very concise. A youtuber by the name of Aly Art talks about the same subject in a more detailed way, over several videos. Have you seen any of them? Avec amitié, Licínia

[@justineleconte]

I used the original source for my research, as well as detailed articles I found online (like the one I linked for you to take the test). The name Aly Art rings a bell though, I will have a look, thanks!

[@SewStruck]

Licínia Gouveia i've watched her videos, i like them alot too

[@dip9634]

I just found out about this system today and it was very easy for me to find that I am a flamboyant natural. With the 5 easy body types that I knew for years, I could never put myself in any of the categories and different people would tell me different answers. So, Kibbe method actually helped me a lot and now I know to which people I can look up to for clothing style references.

[@MrsMrhoward]

Oh my god, i'm so happy you talked about it. I took the test few times, i couldn't fit in a category either. And i find it overwhelming. So i stayed with my inverted triangle simple shape and take into consideration my skin colour. I noticed i have my own style and i already know what fits me well and what i'm confortable with. Kibbe test is like an overthinking woman.

[@nursen2106]

not at all. I don't agree. it is quite easy once you have it and it explains why sometimes some outfits or poses look off between two different types. maybe just someone else should do the test for you. once you have it, the rest falls into place. the apple and triangle system can be confusing or misleading with some outfits still. also it doesn't prevent you, to pick items, that you will merely put on, once you start combining it with other items. I think the kibbe system is more accurate. it is like with a lot of 'systems' sometimes someone else can test you better

[@katehochbaum8941]

If the simplified system works for you, great! I have a feeling that's because you are already shopping for your Kibbe style without realizing it, though. Since the whole point of the system is to find the clothing that looks best on you, maybe you should work backwards? Which Kibbe type's clothing looks most like the clothing you already choose for yourself? That's probably your type. Unfortunately, the fashion industry doesn't seem to care much about making clothing for everyone, so for those of us who try to follow the simplified system and keep being disappointed, the Kibbe system is a god-send.

[@roxemary]

@@katehochbaum8941 working backwards works great. Usually inverted triangles are in the natural family

[@morticia3032]

Kate Hochbaum You may be right. I have always loved to buy theatrical romantic style clothes (think Dita von Teese) and that’s the body type I have got. Even when I am overweight I keep the proportions of my body... And what looks good on me. Ample clothing which doesn’t show off the curves is by far the worst look for me.

[@MrsMrhoward]

You both might be right. I probably do it already and going backwards might be easier for me. Maybe it helps more people that couldn't still find their own style. I found myself between natural and classic.and i have a soft baby face. That's why i don't feel i fit in one category. Maybe i will get back to the test over and over. I do it for fun in my free time.

[@meganmulcahy7831]

I love your take away on this. That it is a test that works to standardize us and that of course cannot really be done so it leaves room for discussion. I do like the idea that this test actually makes you really think and observe your body not just look at numbers and say "oh my hips are the largest number there fore I'm a pare" but that it takes into account height and other features. What I also like that you suggest to take the test a few times and point out that it does not take everything into consideration (age & weight change) so to be aware of that. Thank you for another insightful and knowledgeable video, I always look forward to them and I can't wait to see move of what you have planned for your new collection :)

[@Jenny-ru4hf]

According to Kibbe, it doesn't matter how your face look. Someone can look like a doll, and still be a Flamboyant Natural, which is a yang type. The only matter is how the clothes look on YOU. And you should never compare bodies with someone else.

[@lindenpeters2601]

The test drove me crazy, but was useful in analyzing what I actually look like. What helped me solidify my results was thinking about what I look best in. It helps to try on different outfits for the body types to see what looks most flattering on you.

[@ievaelizabetebahanovska3709]

Kibbe's body type system is the only one that I could place myself into. I am a theatrical romantic. The measurements and claculations from classic sytem do not match my proportions. My results could not be categorised. It is because I have mixed features of what would be considered inverted triangle and hourglass.

[@tomjones2157]

Theatrical Romantics are pear hourglasses with small shoulders, not inverted triangles. Are you a soft natural with curves?

[@suzinshaw8443]

Thanks for your honest review! I am loving my journey with the kibbe system. I've gone through shapes, types 1-4) and found them lacking and restricting, especially for petites. Finally, I'm embracing my lines and going with them. Years of searching!

[@jenwilson9638]

I think you are some kind of classic, maybe with a hint of dramatic. Meryl Streep was in the classics, not gamine, and her face may be more angular as she ages, I think her body is a bit softer with weight gain and age so she is classic but her softness shows in some was - classic with an undercurrent of softness. I think the most important thing with the Kibbe system is your outline. Do you have a long body or short body? Soft or hard? The face and hands may be and factor but the body outline is the key I think....

[@AK-sg1uq]

I like the Kibbe system. It helped me a lot to find my own style. My doctor even says that now I am look a lot healthier ) And buying clothes has become a lot easier for me as I am purchasing only the things I really need (I just know what to buy)))

[@triba123]

This method is so complicated.... I'm going to stick to the 5 body type method

[@Terinka14]

triba123 it is more complicated but more accurate in my opinion :-)

[@sarasoderlund3316]

triba123 +1. I don't see the point in this system any more than a random women's mag quiz. What person doesn't know pretty well from the start what they like (or hate!) and what works with their lifestyles?

[@Wazupiseeyou]

ikr, my head was spinning half way through video.

[@Fridge756]

I'd like to help :D there's another channel on here called Aly Art that in my opinion explains it better. Check her out if you have the time

[@Wazupiseeyou]

Is Your Refrigerator Running Thank you.

[@DinaPysarenko]

Dear Justine, thank you for your videos! You are such an intelligent charismatic person, a real pleasure to see and listen to you. Take care!

[@babs5968]

Took the test as recommended breaking off from the video to do,so. While taking the test I thought it very good to go into such detail but then at the end when I added up my scores my type (equal numbers of Bs & Es ) didn’t exist.

[@akludnna]

Babs 59 have you thought about soft natural? B is a natural and E is an answer on the far yin side

[@cloeshmoroz4512]

I've got equal b,c and d with a bit of e (no a). I went for soft classic according to the description and ref. pictures but taking that with a pretty big pinch of salt.

[@babs5968]

Anna Novotna , that’s pretty much what I decided too

[@berbray]

Cloesh Moroz wow, that is almost exactly what i got (0-As, 4-Bs, 5-Cs, 5-Ds, 2-Es)! And I went with Soft Classic too.

[@TSedai]

I also had a lot of B’s with a fair number of C, D, and E. Originally I’d thought I was Soft Classic, but now I’m pretty sure I’m Soft Natural because all of the B answers relate to the bone structure, and all the E answers relate to the softness of the features on top. I feel like the bone structure is more helpful in determining the main category, then the other aspects are useful to find a subtype. I can honestly say I was surprised to be natural, but in hindsight it makes total sense - I definitely have the thick/wide/blunt bone structure associated with a Natural. I just have a very soft shape on top of that. Merriam Style had an interesting video about difficult results though - she pretty much said to try things on from each of the main categories, and see which looked best. That would narrow things down to 2-3 possibilities, and from there it should be easier to figure out your subtype.

[@HarmonysBird]

When I found the Kibbe System it really changed my personal Style. I completely fall into soft Gamine, so the test didn't feel complicated at all for me. But maybe because my case was so obvious. I finally understood, what looked good on me and how I can dress my body the best way. I have those very doll like features, which I am only yet aware of, and now I know, how I can play with them. As I said, it changed my personal style but also boosted my confidence, because I now know, how to make my tiny but kinda curvy (very yin dominant) body work. So over all I find it very helpful and love to have so much more fun with clothes now - especially when I sometimes break the rules.

[@fatmaalmahrizi8190]

when you say tiny how tall do you mean?

[@staceypleasants]

Sadly, when I paused you to go to the Reddit version as suggested, I got a response saying that the he file has been removed 😥

[@xoxotoe]

I googled the method and got the reddit page with this edit: ETA: David Kibbe now participates actively on facebook in a group called "Strictly Kibbe" and provides exercises you can do to discover your yin/yang balance. He really discourages relying on the quiz, therefore I have deleted the illustrated quiz described in this thread. Please join us in that group. Last edited by Caribou55313 on 7:51 PM - Sep 30, 2018, edited 2 times in total. Reason: David Kibbe is now on facebook.

[@diane_999]

Thank you for sharing this! I was lost :-P

[@justineleconte]

I found an alternative resource and changed the link in the description - now it works.

[@staceypleasants]

@@justineleconte merci 😘

[@MariaKonovalova]

Subjectively, I’d say you are soft dramatic

[@k213389]

I’m a pretty true “dramatic classic”. Ive found the system really useful personally to help me figure out how to dress. Aly Art has a series where she talks about these types in great detail.

[@maggie2sticks717]

Interesting. Soft/classic. When I was younger everyone said I had the classic hourglass figure and classic face. Now as I age a bit I am more rounded and soft but still classic. Good test!

[@idadamgaard4351]

I was never able to pin down my body type until I came across Kibbe, and it's helped me loads. I now have a much better understanding of why certain items of clothing didn't suit me, although they were supposed to be a good fit for my figure. I'm a flamboyant natural but with a large chest, and my face is more on the classic side. Clothing wise I've tended to dress more classic which doesn't look bad, but the bolder cuts and patterns and asymmetry advised for my body type just look great, and who doesn't want to go from good to great? Only thing is I have to take my bust into consideration, but I've found a few actresses with a body type close to mine, and studied their outfits for inspiration. I think paying attention to which letters you get for the body and face respectively helps a lot, because by only looking at the results for body type, the answer was much clearer. If you do the body type questions first, and don't have a clear picture, adding the facial features questions might help.

[@nicoleachilles8765]

I definitely prefer the 5 type system over this one. With the 5 types, usually fluctuating weight does not change/conceal type perception, whereas with the Kibbe system features can change too much, too easily. I'm already between types with Kibbe and any change would mix up those answers even more. Whereas with the 5 types, I'll always be a pear. And I feel that for all the aspects Kibbe wants to take into account, it's missing the ears. They influence the perception of the facial features quite a bit when it comes to choosing hairstyles and/or accessories.

[@roxemary]

With kibbe your body type doesn't change with the weight because the bone structure us still the same, just less visible ;)

[@nicoleachilles8765]

The bone structure might be the same, but the overall appearance is different. Say your bone structure says you have broad and blunt shoulders. A little extra weight makes them more rounded, perhaps even a bit sloped. And suddenly a top looks completely different on your body.

[@roxemary]

@@nicoleachilles8765 yes, that's true, but the difference overall is not that significant. I say this because I had that doubt myself and I started paying more atention to the style of bigger ladies, and came to the conclusion that the bone structure, albeit almost non visible in some cases, is still the most important. Also kibbe explains the way the body types gain weight; that is of great help when classifying someone :)

[@filipovichristina]

I found this system incredibly helpful. I'm a flamboyant natural and I've always intuitively known what looks good and not so good on me, even though that usually collided with the 5 body tipe recommendations for me. I love Kibbe's method because it finally explained why I felt that way, and since then I've been enjoying clothes and understanding how to dress my body so much better.

[@barbarab3159]

Great video, Justine! I've been into Kibbe's system for a few months now and yes, there are limitations, but the "error margin" of each type seems to be much wider than we think. Audrey Hepburn is classified as a gamine, albeit her height, so it IS possible to be tall and gamine. Lily Cole is another sub- standard example of a gamine. You could be a dramatic classic (on the taller side) or a flamboyant natural, but I'd go for a dramatic classic in your case. It's actually about the general appearance than the sum of all parts and you look fab in clean cuts and strong colours... As some peeps below have mentioned, Aly Art and also Merriam Style are making informative videos on Kibbe's system. I took the test twice, with even more "C" answers the second time, and got a dramatic classic too - in the other system I'd be an inverted triangle. Keep cool!

[@justineleconte]

Thanks for your opinion!

[@Fridge756]

I believe she's a flamboyant gamine

[@LavenderBlue-g1j]

I found this video after watching both Aly Art and Merriam Style which go into greater depth on understanding the Kibbe system (which is actually pronounce kib ee with long ee's). I read the book back in the 80s when I was early 20s and starting my family. We were too poor to buy it so I'd put my son in the stroller and walk the mile or so to the bookstore and read it. I didn't ever quite figure my type but the idea of masking your 'assets ' to create some supposed ideal vs. enhancing them through similar lines never left me. I've actually found my niche this time around...pretty sure I'm soft gamine. (My pic is me at 50 with my youngest son. Most people are shocked to find out I'm 55). It's been interesting to see a revival of interest in Kibbe and its offshoots. I thought you might enjoy a series on the individual styles in the sewing world just recently finished by the blog Doctor T Designs. The long lists with pictures of modern patterns for each of the IDs made such a difference in understanding what and why different things are flattering. She focuses on lines and style since sewists can pick fabrics, patterns and colors easier. Most of us in the sewing world are very invested in finding our most flattering personal style. None of us want to invest 5 to 60 hrs working on an item of clothing + cost of materials only to find it's a complete fail which does happen more often than you think. I really loved that she also used the 3 levels of dress, casual, business & dressy for each ID. Not too many of us have occasion to dress in oscar worthy gowns or have a stylist put us together. Nonsewists would get a lot out of it as well.

[@tomjones2157]

I saw that blog, her recommendations were terrible for Theatrical Romantic tho! I remember her recommending a classic or natural blazer with chunky square big pockets, oversized collar, and heavy material just because it had *slight* waist definition! It would swamp my small curvy figure, there was not enough waist definition to not look like a baggy sack, and it would not allow for my hips. I think 90% o fher recommendations for TR were for other types. But I do love the concept of the blog and she writes really well. I just think she needs to look into the detail of each type, not to oversimplify it to things like "mild waist definition", I'm done.

[@janaikodinovic3292]

I learnt a lot about this method and I like it much better than 5 types! I feel like when you get deeper understanding of what each body type represents and after you see many photos (or try to see which bodytype people you know are) you can tell without the test(which is not most accuratly done). I feel like the hights plays big part in overall look of a person.

[@kathleenluiten3443]

Justine, I haven't seen you in a bathing suit with front and side views so it's impossible to be sure what Kibbe type you are. From what I can see you look mostly proportional with enough angular features to be a dramatic classic. I find Kibbe's system much more useful than the simpler 5 standard types. My body is not one really one of those types. I am basically an hour-glass but I'm more angular and slightly dramatic. That's Kibbe's theatrical romantic. I have enough proportional aspects to come close to a soft classic, so my best looks are more classic and refined rather than the femme fatale that is the theatrical romantic's touchstone. But I look boring in tailored cuts without the feminine detail TR's need. Kibbe's guidance on fabrics, shapes and accessories for my type has really been helpful.

[@beingWantable]

I am very clearly romantic. Even when I am skinnier than I am now I am round everywhere. My facial features such as my eyes, note and lips don't really fit but they are still very soft and rounded (but not big). I also have very soft cheeks and I question if I even have cheekbones (yes I do have bones but they are flat and really high). So for me it was quite an eyeopener as I fall between pear and hourglass and the tips often don't work because I am also short. So this works for me ^^

[@exploitedfight8081]

i love Kibbie system, i got his book. ppl say Larson perfected his system by adding missing types but i havent studied it

[@darjadrake4210]

Hi, WHO is Larson?

[@exploitedfight8081]

@@darjadrake4210 Dwyn Larson, a woman who supposedly perfected Kibbie's types

[@tyrannhosaur]

Just a tip to anyone about to take the test - the examples from the reddit test are extremely caucasian-heavy (and actually I think the questions are as well). It might be difficult for you to answer if you're not caucasian.

[@corabee923]

The KZbinr Merriam Style has a video about Kibbe for women of African descent and I think she plans to do more videos for other women of colour.

[@halliebass]

Glad to see an explanation of this with examples and pros and cons. No measurement tool is foolproof! Age is a factor. I’m also curious about trying this out but will see what Category I fall into. Sometimes we try to slot ourselves into a more rigid form. Many of us are a mix of types and sometimes we need to think out of the box. We can use guidelines but they are guidelines and not written in stone! I have a dramatic personality and a kind of athletic figure with a number of changes of ageing!

[@laurafrazaos]

Was really looking forward for this video! When it comes to compare systems, i dont think they talk about same thing at all.. the 5body types are about proportions, while Kibbe's is about harmony between us and the pieces/hair/makeup we choose to use. "Aly Art" channel has some videos comparing body types with pictures, which helps illustrating the harmony point.. Agree, not easy to access mainly ourselves..

[@poojaasharma]

Your views on this system is something I didn't know I needed! Thank you so much! Please make a video on the arguements regarding the Kibbe system.

[@grytlappar]

I also got "Dramatic Classic," and I see similarities between us, so...

[@sacredsiren]

I also do not fall into any of the categories based on my answers to the test. It is still interesting to read about, but I agree that it is a somewhat flawed system. Your analysis and breakdown of the system made it easier for me to understand, and made my frustrations with it seem more reasonable than when I have heard some other people talk about Kibbe, so I appreciate that!