Why You Shouldn’t Rely on the Kibbe System

Find out why Kibbe might not work for everyone and how Kitchener's style system, based on your face and personality, can help you dress authentically.

why you shouldnt rely kibbe

The Kibbe system has helped many people better understand how to dress according to their body type. But while it’s useful, it’s not for everyone. In this article, we’ll explain why Kibbe can fall short—and how the Kitchener system, which considers your face and personality, can give you a more accurate and empowering style direction.

David Kibbe’s method focuses on your physical body: bone structure, height, curves, and proportions. Based on that, you’re assigned one of 13 types (like Soft Classic or Flamboyant Gamine). The issue? It doesn’t account for your personality or the energy you project.

  • Ana has a Soft Dramatic body type, which suggests glamorous, bold clothing. But she's introverted and artistic—this bold style doesn’t match her quiet personality.
  • Lucía is Flamboyant Natural but feels more aligned with romantic, delicate aesthetics. Kibbe’s casual, loose recommendations leave her feeling disconnected.
  • Clara is a Dramatic Classic physically, but has a quirky, playful essence. Structured, elegant pieces recommended by Kibbe make her feel "muted."

These examples show how style must reflect more than just your body. It needs to connect with who you are inside.

The Kitchener system is based on the idea that your style essence comes from your facial features and the energy you naturally give off. It includes:

  • Dramatic – Bold, powerful, commanding
  • Natural – Casual, earthy, relaxed
  • Ethereal – Dreamy, artistic, otherworldly
  • Classic – Balanced, timeless, refined
  • Gamine – Playful, spirited, youthful
  • Naive (Ingenue) – Soft, innocent, charming
  • Romantic – Sensual, emotional, feminine

This system takes into account your personality, expressions, and movement, allowing for a more complete and aligned style discovery.

I’ve created a Kitchener Essence Calculator to help you uncover your unique style essence based on both your face and your personality.

👉 Click here to try the Essence Calculator and start dressing in alignment with who you truly are.

If you’re still interested in learning your Kibbe body type, I also offer a quick and easy calculator just for that.

👉 Click here to try the Kibbe Body Type Calculator and get your result in minutes.