Note: David Kibbe originally defined 13 types, but has since discontinued 'Natural', 'Classic', and 'Gamine'.
Those who previously identified with these types are encouraged to explore the related subtypes.
Description
Gamines are petite with a mix of sharp and soft features, giving a lively, youthful vibe with delicate but defined lines.
Nickname
"The Compact Charmer"
Yin-Yang
Personal Line
Characteristics
- Under 5'5"
- Lively, defined features
- Small, compact shape
- Angular bone structure
- Youthful proportions
Physical Features of a Gamine
Petite compact frame with mixed sharp and soft features creating contrast. Small bone structure with combination of angular and rounded elements. Mix of delicate and defined facial features with youthful proportions.
These physical descriptions are from David Kibbe's original book "Metamorphosis" (1987). His methodology has evolved significantly since then—in his 2025 book "The Power of Style," he explicitly states "NO BODY PARTS" and emphasizes discovering your Image Identity through Personal Line sketching (how fabric drapes on your body) rather than matching individual features. These descriptions are provided as historical reference, not a checklist for self-typing.
Angular Narrow Shoulders
Mixed Length Limbs
Mixed Width Hips
Mixed Proportioned Shape
Mixed Bust
Small Waist
Sharp Defined Jawline
Small Prominent Nose
High Sharp Cheekbones
Mixed Shape Eyes
Mixed Size Lips
Firm Rounded Cheeks
Weight Distribution
Weight appears in the hip and waist areas—rarely above the waist. With significant excess weight, the body tends toward square or stocky shapes rather than curves.
Understanding your type's weight distribution pattern can help with realistic expectations and finding clothes that work for your body at any size.
Gamine Sketch Lines
Understanding your Kibbe type starts with analyzing your body's natural lines. The 3D sketch line process reveals the unique bone structure and flesh distribution that defines the Gamine silhouette.
The Process: I use advanced 3D body scanning technology combined with AI-powered line tracing to create accurate sketch lines. This helps the system accurately measure your proportions and visualize if your dominant element contains vertical or curve, as well as your additional elements, that combined, create your Kibbe type. Get your visual body map
Featured: Leslie Caron
Original Photo
A full-body photo is captured with neutral pose and minimal clothing to accurately assess body proportions.
3D Body Mesh
Using advanced 3D body scanning, we generate a precise mesh model that captures the exact body geometry and proportions.
Sketch Lines
The mesh is traced into clean contour lines that highlight the key features: shoulder slope, waist definition, and hip curves.
Silhouette Description
You need a compact outline that combines opposites - angularity with a touch of curve, vertical with petite compression. The eye travels in a lively, energetic pattern with breaks and contrast.
Key Shapes
- •Vertical + Petite combination (balanced)
- •Compact frame with opposing elements
- •Mix of angular and softer elements
- •Neither extreme yang nor extreme yin
- •Youthful, energetic proportions
Silhouette Requirements
Primary
Compact outline with mixed elements
Eye Movement
Lively, energetic pattern
Flow Direction
Staccato breaks rather than continuous flow
Body Relation
Close to body with contrasting details
Fabric Flow
The imaginary fabric shows a compact frame with a mix of angular and softer elements. The petite nature compresses everything into an energetic, youthful package.
Modern Method: Sketching and Cloth Flow is the most modern method of discovering your Kibbe Image Identity, as written by David Kibbe in his Power of Style (2024) book. Learn more about the sketching approach
Celebrities with Gamine Kibbe
Gamine celebrities, including Leslie Caron and Coco Chanel, exude a spirited and playful style. From Emma Watson to Janelle Monae, Gamine icons showcase a lively mix of yin and yang that brings a fresh, youthful appeal.
What Gamines Should Wear
Silhouette
Compact and fitted with structured, youthful vibe.
Fabrics
Light to moderate fabrics that hold shape like cotton or linen.
Patterns
Small geometrics or bold stripes, avoiding soft or muted patterns.
Details
Sharp and playful with small, eye-catching accents.
T-Shirts
Choose fitted, playful tees with fun details—think bold graphics, unique necklines, or high-contrast colors. Look for structured fabrics that hold their shape.
Shirts
Go for crisp, fitted button-downs with playful details—think Peter Pan collars, bold patterns, or unique cuts. Look for structured fabrics and a tailored, youthful silhouette.
Sweaters
Opt for fitted, playful knits with fun details—think color blocking, stripes, or unique textures. Stick to structured silhouettes with clean, defined lines.
Beauty Guide for Gamines
Hair
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Cut Style
Short, geometric cuts that reveal the face. Youthful and crisp—think chic pixie or sharp bob.
Face Frame
Short, face-revealing with clean lines. Your bone structure takes center stage.
Finish
Crisp, neat, and structured. Polished but with youthful energy.
Tips
Avoid long, flowing hair or overly soft, romantic styling. Short and spirited suits you best.
Colors & Makeup
Your Colors Depend on Your Season
While your hair cut is determined by your Image Identity (Gamine), your makeup colors and hair color are determined by your Season—Winter, Summer, Autumn, or Spring. Your Season is based on your natural coloring (skin, hair, and eye colors), not your body type.
Blogs Gamines Should Read
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What Gamine Kibbe Types Should Wear - Complete Guide With Garment Silhouettes
Welcome to the delightful world of Gamine style, where youthful exuberance meets sophisticated tailoring! Imagine crisp lines playfully dancing with whimsical details to create an ensemble that truly...
How to Know If You Are a Gamine Kibbe: A Complete Guide to the Spirited and Compact Body Type
Welcome to the vibrant world of the Gamine body type, where spirited charm meets a compact frame! With a delightful mix of sharp and soft features, Gamines exude a playful contrast that captures...
What Each Kibbe Type Should Wear to the 2025 Met Gala
Kibbe At The MetThe Met Gala is fashion’s biggest night—and this year, the 2025 theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” brings structure, sharpness, and swagger to the forefront. It’s not about...
