The Classic Family

The Classic family is dominated by the moderation of Yin with Yang in all aspects of silhouette (size/scaling, frame, and flesh). For more context, let’s take a closer look at the members of the Classic family next to the Romantics and Dramatics.

Kibbe Soft Classic Body Type

The Soft Classic is moderate in size and scaling. Relative to the Romantic, the SC looks taller, more elongated, broader, and more vertically compact. The bones of the Soft Classic are relatively more angular and straighter, but retain a bit of roundness throughout the edges and a little bit of gentle width. In terms of flesh, the Soft Classic is slightly Yin; softness can be observed especially at the upper limbs and there is a soft evenness of proportion throughout the chest, waist, and hips.

The Dramatic Classic Body Type

The Dramatic Classic definitely leans more Yang than their Yin counterparts. Like the Dramatics, the DC possesses more elongation, broadness, and angularity. Still, the Dramatic Classic frame is relatively more gently wide or square than the Dramatics, with much more symmetry and moderation. The Dramatic Classic leans more Yang in flesh- they tend to be trim and slightly muscular at lower weights and their torso tends towards a bit more of a streamlined or straight shape.

Soft Classics vs Dramatic Classics

Soft Classics have more gentle roundness to their edges and take on a more soft width and fleshiness. Oppositely, Dramatic Classics have more angular edges and broadness with more of a streamlined width and leanness/litheness. Still, these classics exist on a spectrum and the degree of one’s undercurrent needs to be assessed with uniqueness in mind.

How to Accommodate the Soft Classic and Dramatic Classic

Soft Classics look best in a well blended and continuous head to toe ensemble. Their lines are softly symmetrical and gently rounded or flared, with restrained fluidity, horizontal and diagonal draping, and elegant shaping often prioritizes ovals, flares, soft pleated, and gentle ruching or swirling.

Dramatic Classics look best in a head to toe approach that gives more freedom to play with intense color combinations so long as the result in rich and vibrant as opposed to disparate. They look best with sculpted, angular, and tapered lines, geometric symmetry, and a sleek and taut overall fit. As they are Yang in undercurrent, an extra dose of vertical or diagonal draping is excellent.

Soft Classics and Dramatic Classics: What to Avoid

Soft Classics would do best to avoid overly broken and contrasting outfits that obscure their gentle continuity. Rugged, jagged, angular, geometric, and overly intricate details and lines do not play to their strengths.

Dramatic Classics obscure the beauty of their sleek silhouette when they dress in oversized, flowy, and unconstructed garments. Overly rounded and loose shapes with horizontal emphasis are also contrary to their natural figure.

Modern Soft Classic and Dramatic Classic Examples

Naomi Watts and Dita von Teese possess that beautiful soft symmetry and Romantic undercurrent that allows them to shine in elegantly fluid and rounded lines. Symmetry, round necklines, soft waist and shoulder definition, and a restrained sense of flow or flare are all so gorgeous on them.

Lizzie Caplan and Olivia Munn look amazing when they dress along Dramatic Classic recommendations. Sleek and taut garments with a rich head to toe approach, diagonal or vertical emphasis, and sculpted linearity make them look so chic and dignified.

Modern Soft Classic and Dramatic Classic Styles to Avoid

Soft Classics can drown in heavy fabrics with too much vertical emphasis/elongation and not enough fluidity softness. Oppositely, Dramatic Classics can become overwhelmed with too much intricate shaping, cropped shapes, delicate or ornate details, and not enough sleek structure.

Soft Classics and Dramatic Classics Intro

Please check out my video to learn more.