What's body shape got to do with it?

It's time to shake off my denial...

Have you heard of the Kibbe Body Type test? I first came across it a few years ago, fell down a fascinating YouTube hole, and then promptly disregarded it as all a bit too much.

It seems (like a lot of things) it's had new life breathed into it via TikTok, kickstarting a content chain of reaction that has found it back in my YouTube and Instagram feeds too. This time round, I think it could be on to something...

So what is the Kibbe Body Type Test? There is loads of info online, but here's my tl;dr version: The concept was created by stylist David Kibbe in 1987, who believes all of us can be classified as one of the 13 types. Once you know your type, you can dress accordingly and look your best. There are no ‘pear-shapes’ or ‘upside down triangles’, you’ll be glad to hear — Kibbe used far more delightful terminology with names such as Soft Gamine and Flamboyant Natural.

I was initially put off by the concept's formulaic nature (and slightly cult-like devotees if I'm honest). I did, and still do, believe that you can wear whatever you want, regardless of shape or size. But this time round, it's all suddenly making a lot more sense and actually proving quite useful. 

Timing is everything, and I think my current re-evaluation of my wardrobe has made me far more open to new ways of refining my style. A key part of shopping smarter and having a solid collection of clothes I'll actually wear is ensuring they suit me and make me feel good. The Kibbe system is rooted in that, albeit in a somewhat dated way.

And therein lies my problem. I am pretty sure I fall under the Theatrical Romantic category, but clothing recommendations for this tend to be girlie and ruffle-y -- not me.

This time, instead of that putting me off, I delved a little deeper. When I read up on more of the ‘rules’ my type should follow, it started to make a lot of sense. For example, Theatrical Romantics should avoid swamping their frames in oversized items, instead ensuring their waists are defined. I needed no further convincing of this after a terrible photo of me wearing my oversized utility shirt appeared on my work intranet this week. I was going for Effortless Kate Moss. The startling reality was more Dishevelled School Janitor. 

I have been battling this for a while because I love the current minimal, oversized, effortless trend but it doesn't love me. So my new challenge is going to be finding ways I can still wear it while giving more thought to my shape. Fortunately, there are some recommended silhouettes that I already gravitate towards, like tapered high-waisted trousers, tulip skirts, peplum tops (well, circa 2009).

I think with these systematic approaches to styling, like Kibbe's, it's important to maintain your personal taste. I'm very much opposed to one-size-fits-all fashion advice. Also, who says we have to look our 'best' all the time. Sometimes, we seek out clothes to distract or hide or celebrate rather than flatter, and that's fine. 

But for me, it's time to stop working against my shape. I would love to be able to go braless in a waistcoat, or wear chic loose blazers over vests, but my cup-size would lead to both looking the opposite of what I'd have intended. 

To help put this all into a bit more context, here's an example of a swap I’ll be trying...

I love the oversized blazer look — it’s so chic, and a great way to look put-together but modern at work. See below:

However, when I’ve tried this, I find single lapel blazers hang down off my chest making me look boxy and slumped or like I’m ‘dressing up’ as a businesswoman.

Sometimes you have to just admit defeat — not all trends are worth pursuing. I’d be far better opting for something along the lines of this…

It’s neatly fitted, with the peplum further emphasising the waist. Teaming with a slim leg also balances things out nicely. I thought it was a good example of following the Theatrical Romantic rules but in a way that’s far more me.

If I still wanted to give the oversized look a go, simply belting the waist and opting for double-breasted, as below, could also be an option.

It’s pretty obvious stuff that I’m kicking myself for not being more conscious of. I’ve made a couple of purchases since rediscovering the Kibbe system and I feel they are far more likely to be successful additions to my wardrobe. They haven't actually arrived yet, so I'll keep you posted…