Unlock Your Style Potential: A Comprehensive Guide to the Kibbe Body Type Test
Have you ever felt like certain clothes look amazing on some people but just don’t work for you, even if they’re your size? This isn’t just a matter of trends or personal preference; it could be that the garments aren’t harmonizing with your inherent body type and essence. Enter the Kibbe Body Type system, a revolutionary approach to understanding your unique beauty and finding clothes that flatter your natural lines.
Created by David Kibbe in his 1987 book, “Metamorphosis,” the Kibbe system moves beyond traditional body shapes (like apple, pear, or hourglass) and focuses on a more holistic assessment of your physical characteristics, energy, and overall presence. It’s not about fitting into a pre-defined box but about embracing your individuality and expressing it through your wardrobe. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the Kibbe Body Type Test, helping you understand the nuances of each type and how to discover your own.
## What is the Kibbe Body Type System?
The Kibbe system identifies five main “families” or categories, each with two subtypes, resulting in a total of 10 body types. These types are based on a blend of Yin and Yang, representing contrasting elements of softness (Yin) and sharpness (Yang) in your overall appearance. Understanding this balance is key to finding clothes that complement your natural essence.
Here’s a brief overview of the 10 Kibbe Body Types:
* **Dramatic (D):** Pure Yang. Characterized by sharp angles, long limbs, and a striking, powerful presence. Think Tilda Swinton or Cate Blanchett.
* **Soft Dramatic (SD):** Yang dominant, with Yin undercurrent. Retains some sharpness from Dramatic, but softened by lushness and curves. Examples include Sophia Loren and Raquel Welch.
* **Flamboyant Natural (FN):** Yang dominant, with a Natural undercurrent. Taller, athletic builds with broad shoulders and a strong bone structure. Think Jennifer Lawrence or Cameron Diaz.
* **Natural (N):** Balanced Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yang. A blend of relaxed and sturdy, with a slightly athletic build and moderate bone structure. Examples include Lisa Kudrow and Doris Day.
* **Soft Natural (SN):** Balanced Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yang, with a Soft undercurrent. Similar to Natural, but with a softer, more sensual quality. Think Goldie Hawn or Scarlett Johansson.
* **Dramatic Classic (DC):** Balanced Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yang. A blend of sharpness and restraint, with a tailored and sophisticated look. Think Jackie Kennedy or Olivia Munn.
* **Classic (C):** Perfectly balanced Yin and Yang. Harmonious and symmetrical features, with a timeless and elegant appeal. Examples include Grace Kelly and Diane Keaton.
* **Soft Classic (SC):** Balanced Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yin. Similar to Classic, but with a softer, more romantic quality. Think Catherine Deneuve and Marion Cotillard.
* **Flamboyant Gamine (FG):** Yin and Yang in juxtaposition (meaning Yang features are sharp and juxtaposed with Yin features that are small and delicate). Energetic and playful, with a quirky and youthful appearance. Think Audrey Hepburn or Zooey Deschanel.
* **Gamine (G):** Balanced Yin and Yang in juxtaposition, leaning towards Yin. Similar to Flamboyant Gamine, but with more delicate, rounded features. Examples include Leslie Caron and Winona Ryder.
* **Theatrical Romantic (TR):** Yin dominant, with Yang undercurrent. A blend of softness and drama, with a delicate bone structure and alluring presence. Think Vivien Leigh or Mila Kunis.
* **Romantic (R):** Pure Yin. Characterized by soft curves, lushness, and a sensual, romantic appeal. Examples include Marilyn Monroe and Drew Barrymore.
## Why Take the Kibbe Body Type Test?
The Kibbe system offers numerous benefits for understanding your personal style:
* **Enhanced Self-Awareness:** It helps you see your body in a new light, appreciating your unique features and understanding why certain styles resonate with you more than others.
* **Confident Wardrobe Choices:** By knowing your Kibbe type, you can make more informed decisions when shopping, choosing clothes that flatter your lines and enhance your natural beauty.
* **Reduced Wardrobe Waste:** You’ll be less likely to buy clothes that end up sitting in your closet unworn, saving you money and reducing waste.
* **Personalized Style Development:** The Kibbe system provides a framework for developing your personal style, allowing you to experiment with different silhouettes, fabrics, and accessories within the context of your type.
* **Increased Confidence:** When you wear clothes that truly suit you, you’ll feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin.
## The Kibbe Body Type Test: A Step-by-Step Guide
This test isn’t a simple quiz with right or wrong answers. It requires honest self-assessment and a willingness to consider your overall presence, not just individual features. Gather a friend or family member to help you, as they can offer an objective perspective. Also it’s a good idea to take pictures of yourself, front, side, and back, in form fitting clothing, or swimwear. This way you can best asses your lines later. Don’t worry if you don’t fit neatly into one category – most people have elements of several types.
**Important Note:** The Kibbe system is about understanding your *essence* and overall *impression*, not just measuring your body or focusing on perceived flaws. It’s about appreciating your unique beauty and finding styles that harmonize with your natural lines.
**Step 1: Bone Structure (Yang vs. Yin)**
This step focuses on the underlying framework of your body. Consider the following questions:
* **Overall Impression:** Is your bone structure delicate and small (Yin), strong and angular (Yang), or somewhere in between?
* **Shoulders:** Are they narrow and sloping (Yin), broad and square (Yang), or moderate?
* **Limbs (Arms and Legs):** Are they short and delicate (Yin), long and substantial (Yang), or moderate in length and thickness?
* **Hands and Feet:** Are they small and dainty (Yin), large and angular (Yang), or average in size?
* **Jawline:** Is it rounded and soft (Yin), sharp and prominent (Yang), or moderate?
* **Nose:** Is it small and delicate (Yin), large and prominent (Yang), or average?
* **Cheekbones:** Are they rounded and soft (Yin), high and prominent (Yang), or moderate?
**Scoring:**
* Count the number of “Yin” answers.
* Count the number of “Yang” answers.
* Count the number of “Moderate” answers.
**Interpretation:**
* **Mostly Yin:** Suggests a leaning towards the Romantic, Theatrical Romantic, or Gamine family.
* **Mostly Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Dramatic, Soft Dramatic, or Natural family.
* **Balanced Yin and Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Classic family.
* **Juxtaposition of Yin and Yang:** Suggests a leaning toward the Flamboyant Gamine family.
**Step 2: Body Flesh (Softness vs. Firmness)**
This step examines the soft tissue of your body, considering its texture and distribution.
* **Overall Impression:** Is your flesh soft and yielding (Yin), firm and muscular (Yang), or somewhere in between?
* **Bust/Chest:** Is it full and rounded (Yin), flat and toned (Yang), or moderate?
* **Waist:** Is it easily defined and curvy (Yin), straight and less defined (Yang), or moderate?
* **Hips:** Are they rounded and curvy (Yin), straight and narrow (Yang), or moderate?
* **Thighs:** Are they soft and fleshy (Yin), firm and muscular (Yang), or moderate?
* **Cheeks:** Are they full and rounded (Yin), flat and toned (Yang), or moderate?
* **Lips:** Are they full and rounded (Yin), thin and defined (Yang), or moderate?
**Scoring:**
* Count the number of “Yin” answers.
* Count the number of “Yang” answers.
* Count the number of “Moderate” answers.
**Interpretation:**
* **Mostly Yin:** Suggests a leaning towards the Romantic, Theatrical Romantic, Soft Natural or Soft Classic family.
* **Mostly Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Dramatic, Flamboyant Natural or Dramatic Classic family.
* **Balanced Yin and Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Classic family.
**Step 3: Facial Features (Delicate vs. Striking)**
This step focuses on the details of your face, considering the size, shape, and placement of your features.
* **Overall Impression:** Is your face delicate and refined (Yin), striking and bold (Yang), or somewhere in between?
* **Eyes:** Are they large and wide-set (Yin), small and close-set (Yang), or moderate in size and spacing?
* **Eyebrows:** Are they arched and soft (Yin), straight and defined (Yang), or moderate?
* **Eyelashes:** Are they long and full (Yin), short and sparse (Yang), or moderate?
* **Nose Shape:** Is it small and upturned (Yin), long and straight (Yang), or moderate?
* **Lip Shape:** Are they full and rounded (Yin), thin and defined (Yang), or moderate?
* **Chin:** Is it rounded and soft (Yin), pointed and strong (Yang), or moderate?
**Scoring:**
* Count the number of “Yin” answers.
* Count the number of “Yang” answers.
* Count the number of “Moderate” answers.
**Interpretation:**
* **Mostly Yin:** Suggests a leaning towards the Romantic, Theatrical Romantic, or Gamine family.
* **Mostly Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Dramatic, Soft Dramatic, or Natural family.
* **Balanced Yin and Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Classic family.
* **Juxtaposition of Yin and Yang:** Suggests a leaning toward the Flamboyant Gamine family.
**Step 4: Hair Texture (Soft vs. Coarse)**
This step considers the natural texture and appearance of your hair.
* **Overall Impression:** Is your hair soft and fine (Yin), coarse and thick (Yang), or somewhere in between?
* **Texture:** Is it silky and smooth (Yin), wiry and textured (Yang), or moderate?
* **Volume:** Is it naturally full and voluminous (Yin), flat and fine (Yang), or moderate?
* **Curl Pattern:** Does it curl easily (Yin), resist curling (Yang), or somewhere in between?
* **Shine:** Does it have a natural shine and luster (Yin), or is it more matte (Yang)?
**Scoring:**
* Count the number of “Yin” answers.
* Count the number of “Yang” answers.
* Count the number of “Moderate” answers.
**Interpretation:**
* **Mostly Yin:** Suggests a leaning towards the Romantic, Theatrical Romantic, or Gamine family.
* **Mostly Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Dramatic, Soft Dramatic, or Natural family.
* **Balanced Yin and Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Classic family.
**Step 5: Essence and Impression (Ethereal vs. Bold)**
This is the most subjective but arguably the most important step. It’s about your overall *presence* and the impression you make on others. Consider how people perceive you and how you feel most authentic.
* **Overall Impression:** Do you project a sense of softness and allure (Yin), strength and power (Yang), or a balanced harmony?
* **Energy:** Is your energy playful and energetic (Gamine), graceful and refined (Classic), dramatic and captivating (Dramatic/Romantic), or relaxed and approachable (Natural)?
* **Demeanor:** Are you naturally shy and reserved (Yin), outgoing and assertive (Yang), or somewhere in between?
* **Clothing Style:** What styles do you gravitate towards naturally? Do you prefer delicate fabrics and flowing silhouettes (Yin), structured garments and bold colors (Yang), or a balanced mix?
* **How Others Perceive You:** Do people describe you as elegant and refined, striking and powerful, cute and playful, or relaxed and natural?
**Interpretation:**
* **Mostly Yin:** Suggests a leaning towards the Romantic, Theatrical Romantic, or Gamine family.
* **Mostly Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Dramatic, Soft Dramatic, or Natural family.
* **Balanced Yin and Yang:** Suggests a leaning towards the Classic family.
**Step 6: Analyze Your Results and Determine Your Type**
Review your scores from each step. Look for patterns and trends. Which categories have the most Yin answers? Which have the most Yang answers? Which are mostly moderate? This will give you a general idea of your dominant type.
Here’s a breakdown of how to interpret your overall results:
* **Dramatic (D):** Primarily Yang answers across all categories. Sharp, angular features, and a powerful presence.
* **Soft Dramatic (SD):** Predominantly Yang, with some Yin influence in the body flesh and/or facial features. Strong bone structure softened by lushness.
* **Flamboyant Natural (FN):** Mostly Yang, with a Natural essence. Taller, athletic builds with broad shoulders and a relaxed, approachable vibe.
* **Natural (N):** Balanced Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yang. A blend of relaxed and sturdy, with a slightly athletic build and a moderate bone structure.
* **Soft Natural (SN):** Balanced Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yang, with a Soft essence. Similar to Natural, but with a softer, more sensual quality.
* **Dramatic Classic (DC):** Balanced Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yang. A blend of sharpness and restraint, with a tailored and sophisticated look.
* **Classic (C):** Perfectly balanced Yin and Yang. Harmonious and symmetrical features, with a timeless and elegant appeal.
* **Soft Classic (SC):** Balanced Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yin. Similar to Classic, but with a softer, more romantic quality.
* **Flamboyant Gamine (FG):** Juxtaposition of Yin and Yang. Energetic and playful, with a quirky and youthful appearance.
* **Gamine (G):** Juxtaposition of Yin and Yang, leaning towards Yin. Similar to Flamboyant Gamine, but with more delicate, rounded features.
* **Theatrical Romantic (TR):** Yin dominant, with Yang undercurrent. A blend of softness and drama, with a delicate bone structure and alluring presence.
* **Romantic (R):** Primarily Yin answers across all categories. Soft curves, lushness, and a sensual, romantic appeal.
**Step 7: Research Your Type and Experiment with Styles**
Once you have a good idea of your Kibbe type, delve deeper into researching its characteristics. Look for examples of celebrities who share your type and analyze their style choices. Pay attention to:
* **Silhouettes:** What shapes and cuts flatter your body type?
* **Fabrics:** What textures and weights work best for you?
* **Colors:** What colors complement your skin tone and enhance your essence?
* **Details:** What necklines, sleeves, and embellishments suit your type?
* **Accessories:** What jewelry, shoes, and bags complete your look?
Experiment with different styles within the recommendations for your type. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see what resonates with you. Remember, the Kibbe system is a guide, not a rigid set of rules. Use it as a tool to explore your personal style and discover what makes you feel confident and beautiful.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
* **Focusing Too Much on Weight:** The Kibbe system is not about your weight or dress size. It’s about your bone structure, body flesh, and overall essence. Someone of any size can belong to any Kibbe type.
* **Misinterpreting “Curve”:** Curve in the Kibbe system refers to the softness and roundness of your flesh, not just the shape of your body. A straight figure can still have soft flesh and be considered curvy in the Kibbe context.
* **Confusing Body Shape with Kibbe Type:** The traditional body shape categories (apple, pear, hourglass) are different from Kibbe types. You can’t determine your Kibbe type based solely on your body shape.
* **Trying to Fit into a Specific Category:** Don’t feel pressured to fit neatly into one category. Most people have elements of several types. Focus on identifying your dominant type and incorporating elements of other types as needed.
* **Being Too Critical of Yourself:** The Kibbe system is about celebrating your unique beauty, not finding flaws. Be kind to yourself and focus on appreciating your natural features.
## Beyond the Test: Connecting with the Kibbe Community
There are many online resources and communities dedicated to the Kibbe system. Joining these groups can provide valuable insights and support as you explore your type and develop your personal style. Look for forums, social media groups, and online style consultations where you can connect with other enthusiasts and experts.
## Final Thoughts: Embracing Your Unique Beauty
The Kibbe Body Type system is a powerful tool for understanding your unique beauty and developing your personal style. By taking the time to assess your physical characteristics, energy, and overall presence, you can discover the styles that truly flatter your lines and enhance your natural essence. Remember, the goal is not to conform to a specific ideal but to embrace your individuality and express it through your wardrobe. So, go ahead, take the test, explore your type, and unlock your style potential!