Kibbe: Theatrical Romantic Style Guide

Theatrical Romantic: Soft Yin with slight Yang Undercurrent

or Romantic with a slight dramatic undercurrent 

Style ID: Femme Fatale Chic 

We’ve all been there. You saw your favorite style icon rock this amazing outfit, and you go to re-create it and it just looks… off. Is it the silhouette? The fabric? But you just can’t figure out what is wrong. 

Then you find the Kibbe System.  

Maybe you’re new to the image identity system created by David Kibbe or you’ve fallen very far down the rabbit hole that is Kibbe. Regardless, understanding your yin/yang balance and understanding each ID’s accommodations can be a mind-blowing way to figure out what clothes harmonize with YOUR unique beauty. 

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If you’re here, you’re probably thinking you are a Theatrical Romantic. So now what? 

The Kibbe System is not meant to be a body typing system or used in conjunction with the traditional fruit body system. 

Instead, it is meant to harmonize your yin/yang balance, your inner and outer essence, and find clothes that work with your beauty and make your most dominant traits shine. 

This can be incredibly helpful as you begin to train your eye to evaluate clothes that will highlight your beauty, clothes that might need to be adjusted, or just a better understanding of crafting a full outfit that all works together. Fewer shopping blunders and uncomfortable outfits is a big style win! 

Now, if you’re newer to David Kibbe’s system, I recommend starting here. It will provide a general outline and overview of the terminology and concept he created in his book Metamorphosis: Discover Your Image Identity and Dazzle As Only You Can.

From that book, the Kibbe Body Quiz was created. Now, a lot of people when they first take the quiz land on Theatrical Romantic as their ID. I want to caution you that while the quiz can work for some people (especially if you already have a grasp on Kibbe terminology), it is not always the most accurate and can be difficult to properly access your body’s line through the lens of Kibbe. 

Exploring your ID is meant to be a 6+ month process. It is meant to be a period of self-exploration, fashion appreciation, and personal essence and style honing. This commitment of time ultimately equals a better sense of self and style and a lifelong understanding of style expression. 

David Kibbe is currently writing a new book that may change our interpretation of his current theories and guidelines. However, for now, this can be your ultimate theatrical romantic style guide. 

NOTE: Please note while this information is inspired by his original text, I am providing my opinion and guidance as a fashion designer and stylist in order to modernize the information and give you more assistance in understanding certain terms and suggestions. If you want to hear Kibbe’s news, or his personal opinion you should join the Strictly Kibbe Facebook Group.  It is my personal opinion that he created a wonderful system and my attempt here is to help spread the word and give more modern examples for people to grasp and hopefully debunk some kibbe myths along the way. However, I am not David Kibbe, so you are reading my opinions, not his. I encourage people to join Strictly Kibbe and also hear his own thoughts and words.

What is the Theatrical Romantic Kibbe ID? 

The Theatrical Romantic ID is one of the original 13 Kibbe Body Types and it is part of the Romantic Family. 

The Romantic Family is known for the yin characteristics, and for their double curve shape (we will define this, soon).

When we look at the yin/yang spectrum we see that the Romantic family is all the way towards the yin side. With pure Romantic being extreme yin or lush yin. And Theatrical romantics are soft yin with a slight yang undercurrent.  

Now, as time has progressed and more people have wanted to access their own Kibbe ID’s, instead of going to see David Kibbe himself in New York City, more guidance has been given. Most specifically the term “accommodations”. 

Essentially what “accommodations” means in Kibbe is what are your most dominant traits and should you style an outfit to make those traits shine.  

Now, each body is unique and it doesn’t mean that Dramatics are sharp, boney, flat-chested or emaciated. And it also doesn’t mean only hourglass figures are romantics. In fact, Kibbe curve has nothing to do with your bust-waist-hip ratio and everything to do with your outer line. 

So Theatrical Romantics accommodate “double curve” and they accommodate “petite”. Kibbe terminology is kind of its own unique language, and it’s worth exploring extensively to get the most out of your ID. Petite does not mean you shop in the petite section, but generally “small-boned”. You have a delicate bone structure. 

Now, what is Kibbe Double Curve? 

There is a lot of debate on what Kibbe double curve is, and let me remind you that this is my interpretation and opinion. Originally it was believed that only Romantics, Theatrical Romantics, and occasionally a Soft Gamine could have double curve in their body. But more recently (although much more rare), a soft classic has been known to display it. He suggests this not be used as a data point though because it is very, very rare.

If this is breaking your brain just remember that your Kibbe ID is taken from a holistic perspective. You need to consider the full picture of your body. So it’s not about comparing your body to a verified celebrity, and it’s not about comparing your shoulders to someone else. Focus on what your body’s line leans towards in terms of bone structure and flesh (not fat!). 

Double curve comes from flesh, not frame, which is why it is on the yin side of the spectrum. It is a continuous curved line on the top and bottom of your body.  In my opinion, it can be visually seen as a snowman shape, roughly two circles stacked on top of one another without space between the upper and bottom curved lines.

Let’s look at the picture below to see how conventional curve and Kibbe curve differ.  We have three “conventionally curvy” women below. However, none of them have double curve. Jennifer Love Hewitt has no upper curve, only hip curve, and she is a verified Flamboyant Gamine (which is combo yin/yang). Tracie Ellis Ross has blunt yang and kibbe width because she is a Flamboyant Natural. So even though she has “curve” to her body, it doesn’t need accommodating because of her strong shoulder line/kibbe width. Similary, Jennifer Lawrence, another Flamboyant Natural has no upper curve and has kibbe width. The dominance of yang removes the option for the double curve. When we compare their body shapes to Mila Kunis or Selena Gomez above, we can see the soft flesh and continous upper and lower curve line that equates double curve.

Bottom curve or hip curve only is more of a yang body trait and does not equal double curve or a curve accommodation in Kibbe. 

Romantic Versus Theatrical Romantic vs Soft Dramatic

Because both the Romantics and Theatrical Romantics have double curve, what separates them? Well, Romantic body types like Marilyn Monroe do not accommodate petite (small bones). They have lush yin or extreme yin, so their shapes are basically all rounded. Because of this they can actually look a bit wider than the theatrical romantic.

Similarly, theatrical romantic kibbe types have a yang undercurrent which means you can see they have some sharp shoulders, nose, jaw, or cheekbones. Whereas romantics have much more softness in their face and shoulder line.

Both IDs have a majority of yin features. Whereas the soft dramatic body type is yang dominant. Sometimes Soft Dramatics are considered the yang version of TRs, but that is not a helpful way to look at it.

Soft Dramatics are dramatics first and foremost, they have sharp bones with soft flesh on top. They also do not have double curve but do require a curve accommodation. This is because we are adding length betwen those two curved shapes which separates our “snowman” shape and no long needs waist emphasis.

Double Curve versus Width versus Vertical

So, I like to think of Kibbe accommodations and dominant traits kind of like a game of Rock-Paper-Scissors. Certain accommodations will trump the need for others to be taken into consideration.

For example, Kim Kardashian (an unverified, but suspected Soft Natural) is conventionally curvy. However she has width in her upper back and shoulders. Which does not mean she’s “bulky” or “wide” but that here is an openeness in her shoulder area that would need accommodating. 

So that width eliminates the possibility that Kim Kardashion has either petite (small bones) or double curve. Therefore, Kim K cannot be a Theatrical Romantic, even though she’s conventionally seen as a Femme Fatale. 

Now when we evaluate whether or not a Soft Dramatic can have double curve we need to look at the shape their bodies make. Soft Dramatics accommodate vertical and curve (not double curve). 

Double curve can look a bit like two circles stacked on top of one another ( I like to equate this to a Snowman shape for visual reference). As we add a yang element to those two circles they get further away from one another. Adding that elongation eliminates the double curve. Soft Dramatics are not just “larger theatrical romantics”. But rather they are yang bones with a romantic undercurrent. So they are accommodating vertical ( which eliminates any double curve accommodation) and curve. As their curve grows longer, it is no longer considered a purely yin trait.  

What does “Petite” mean in Kibbe? 

Theatrical Romantics also require a petit accommodation because they are the yin side of the spectrum and very delicate boned.  

Just because you are short does not mean you need a petite accommodation. They tend to be smaller, and narrow all over, and under 5ft 5 generally. 

If you have width, you cannot also have petite. I’d explore the Soft Natural style guide if this fits your description. 

Petite is not easily seen in a photo, but can be seen in person often.  So it may take some time to understand if you fit the TR body shape.

After all of that you should now have a better understanding of the Theatrical Romantic accommodations= double curve + petite. 

So all of my hourglass peeps who identify as a TR, just remember to double check your ID photo for these traits. 

{ if you want more specificity or want to hear it directly from David Kibbe, again, his facebook group is the only authentic way to do that}.

Theatrical Romantic ID Overview 

Remember that the following traits are general guidelines. If one trait doesn’t line up, that does not exclude this ID as a possibility, as long that specific trait does not disrupt your yin/yang balance. For instance, if your height is the “one trait” this would disrupt your ability to have double curve or have petit as accommodations. So even if you really resonate with the theatrical romantic outfits and guidelines, being tall ( 5ft 7in +) would not make this ID a possibility. 

Also, remember that you are only comparing your body’s unique traits and proportions to itself, not others. So looking at a verified celebrity is not an effective way to ID yourself. 

Theatrical Romantic Celebrities (verified)

Here is a list of verified Theatrical Romantic celebrities. 

• David Kibbe himself (remember this system works for everyone!)
• Anna Margaret
• Hedy Lamarr
• Rita Hayworth
• Jada Pinkett Smith
• Jane Seymour
• Jean Harlow
• Joan Collins
• Mila Kunis
• Morgan Fairchild
• Salma Hayek
• Selena Gomez
• Vivien Leigh (premier TR example in the book) 

Please note: There is a lot of misinformation on Kibbe and verified celebs out there. I myself have shared my typing opinions on unverified celebs on my tiktok, however I do not claim to be David Kibbe or officially type anyone. Furthermore celebrities are not really meant to be data points or comparison points. They are just examples of how yin/yang can be spread within an ID and to show the spectrum of each ID. Just because you look mildly close to a celeb who is verified, does not mean you share their same Kibbe ID. 

Theatrical Romantic Physical Profile 

The Theatrical Romantic (or TR) will have the following characteristics:

They will have smaller, narrower curves and can even appear “birdlike”. They tend to have narrow hands and feet. And their eyes are round but often slanted upwards. They often have slightly pronounced cheekbones and round lip shapes or luscious lips. 

Height: Moderate to Petite; generally under 5 ft 5 inches 

Theatrical Romantic Bone Structure:

• Small and delicate ( shorter/smaller bones) 
• Slightly sharp edges which equals that yang undercurrent. This can be seen in the edges of the shoulders, cheekbones, jawline, or nose. 
• Their facial bone structure is often slightly sharp, delicate, and small. 

Theatrical Romantic Body Type

• Soft, voluptuous. They often appear slight and small ( never bulky or wide) 
• Soft, fleshy arms and legs 
• They can have an hourglass figure with a waspish waist. But remember the definition of double curve and that non-busty celebrities like Mila Kunis and Jada Pinkett Smith are Theatrical Romantics.  

Theatrical Romantic Facial Features

• Soft features, lush 
• Larger, round eyes (can be slightly upturned creating “bedroom eyes”)
• Soft cheeks (but their cheekbones can have that yang undercurrent as well) 
• Full lips

A Theatrical Romantic will not have:

• Be “extremely” tall (over 5 ft 6) 
• Have “kibbe width” 
• large or wide bones 
• large hands or feet 
• Have small or narrow eyes 
• Have small or thin lips 
• Have a boyishly straight figure devoid of any waist ( this can be heavily skewed by our understanding of “kibbe curve”, so really focus on the double curve examples) 

Theatrical Romantic Weight Gain pattern

I have a full guide on the weight gain patterns of all the ID’s plus my opinion on some mid to plus size examples of each, here. 

First, I need to stipulate that weight gain will NOT change your ID. We are not examining your fat or numerical weight when we say “flesh” in Kibbe. But, it has been noted that certain IDs will gain weight in a specific pattern. This is one element to an ID, and cannot be used as a sole determining factor. 

When Theatrical Romantics gain weight they tend to keep their defined waist and hourglass shape. Flesh often collects in their upper arms, thighs, and their face can become fleshier or softer. 

The above women are my interepreation of more mid-to-plus size Theatrical Romantics. Each have small bones (espeically visible in the hands and feet), sloped shoulders, soft flesh, continuous double curve, and slight yang undercurrent in their facial features.

Theatrical Romantic + Muscles/Tone

Now, this section is not based on anything David Kibbe has stated, so take it with a grain of salt. However, because double curve comes from flesh, the more a TR works out the more “taut” her flesh can appear. Especially when they do high intensity muscle training.

We can see this in the case of Jane Seymour and Jada Pinkett Smith above. Their rigorous working out and toning has made their body lack some of the softness associated with the Theatrical Romantics.

They are still TR’s even when they are more muscular. However, extreme work out regimens and muscle buidling can make your ID trickier to decipher (unless you are seeing David Kibbe in person).

Theatrical Romantic Coloring 

Again any ID can have any coloring (warm or cool toned) but theatrical romantics often have delicate complexions with vivid trademarks.  

I think Jada Pinkett Smith exemplifies this beautifully. She has a luminous quality to her coloring. 

Now, David Kibbe did create his own version of the “seasonal color analysis” that you can dig into if you see him personally. But, I find leaning on the general color guidelines of your seaonal color analysis, which you can learn about here, most effective for creating your own authentic personal style. 

Are you really a Theatrical Romantic?

Ok, I get it. The name is alluring and there is a certain “sexiness” imposed to this ID that makes a lot of people want to be one. But, absolutely any ID can be sexy and getting angry if you’re not a theatrical romantic won’t be doing your dominant traits and unique beauty any favors. 

In order to start understanding your line and how fabric would drape over your body, you will need a proper ID Photo. You can also find the full list of extensive exercises in the Strictly Kibbe Facebook Group (which I have blocked from, or else I would link to it…).

Start by taking a full-length body shot using your rear facing camera on a tripod. Your camera should be chest-level. If you don’t have a tripod, you can get creative but make sure your camera is a 90 degree angle to the ground and that it is chest level. Mirror selfies DO NOT work as they create visual distortion. 

Now evaluating your photo can be tricky because one of your accommodations (petite) is not always seen in a photo. However you can begin to trace the shapes your body creates (using either your iphone markup settings or an app like procreate). You’ll want to focus on the shapes from your knees to you shoulders. 

Now, I don’t have a perfect ID photo for verified Theatrical Romantic Selena Gomez or Mila Kunis, but the below photo is for demonstrative purposes. 

You can see in my photo (I identify as a Flamboyant Natural), that my shoulders are open creating Kibbe width, and my shoulders to knees is fairly long creating vertical. I have some curve to my hips (only a little) but there is no curve on top. This equates more to a yang weight gain pattern and does not require me to have a curve accommodation.

Whereas Mila and Selena Gomez both have small bones, narrow frames, and a continous double curve shape.  

We are not all that different in height. I’m a little over 5 ft 6, Mila is 5 ft 4, and Selena is 5ft 5, but we can see that I look much more frame dominant/yang than either of these two women.   (Although Mila and Selena are both wearing heels in their photo whereas I am not, so adjust accordingly).

You can see I’m much more frame dominant and and my “edges” are blunt yang, not soft yin. But, that doesn’t mean I can’t wear a bodycon dress:

Theatrical Romantic Style LInes 

Theatrical Romantics are known as “Femme Fatale Chic”, which immediately makes people want to be one. Psychologically speaking we all want to be desirable and unique and many immediately gravitate towards the description of the TR. 

But before we deep dive into the original style recommendations for the Theatrical Romantic, I want to explain the evolution of the Kibbe body types and the changes he’s made along the way. 

The original book was published in the 1980s and this meant there was no Google or constant access to fashion exposure like we have today. Therefore the book had to be very detailed and narrow in terms of what would work on the average Theatrical romantic body type. He was using specificity to paint a picture so that anyone reading the book could grasp the concept of the ID. 

Now, over time and with more fashion exposure people have complained about being “boxed-in” by these suggestions. And David Kibbe, like the gracious creator he is, shared that any ID can wear any piece of clothing as long as their head-to-toe outfit accommodates their traits and harmonizes together.

I have a video that shows this concept in action, here. 

That being said, understanding his initial style recommendations can help you visually see some of the clothing traits, fabrics, silhouettes, and details that will most likely harmonize with your body seamlessly. I like to equate this process to learning how to cook a recipe. The first time you ever bake bread, you will need an ingredient list, and step-by-step instructions and guidelines. With time and practice, you can learn how to adjust the flavor profiles, adjust ingredients for personal taste, and expand past into other variations of bread. But, you need that first base recipe so that your foundation and process building is strong.  

So evaluate these style suggestions and try to understand the why behind these selections. They are essentially a stepping stool to help you evolve your own style recipe.  

The Theatrical Romantic silhouette can be described as curvy, rounded, and ornate. You want soft and lightweight fabrics (this is VERY important) that can drape over your double curve. 

You are a romantic first and foremost with only a touch of dramatic undercurrent. This means your silhouette and shape need to be yin-focused and avoid anything heavy or sharp within the full silhouette. 

Theatrical Romantics have an element of glamour to their looks and can handle the ornate details, and lavish elements. You can be described as magnetic, a ravishing beauty, and even a powerful leader. 

Now, let’s break down what all of that means for your clothes.

NOTE: There are some “avoid” categories with each suggestions. Please look at these as general recommendations and focus on your head-to-toe outfit over any small detail or element. Each Theatrical Romantic may vary slightly (Jada Pinkett Smith versus Vivien Leigh), so each person will benefit from personal exploration and outfit building over obsession over specifics suggestions. 

How to Dress the Theatrical Romantic: Style Guide 

Yin/Yang Balance: Soft yin with a slight yang undercurrent 

Theatrical Romantic Shape 

When we refer to the shape of a garment we are examining the piece or outfits general outline, full silhouette, and focal points. 

You will begin to see a theme with these style suggestions and that is “rounded, intricate, and ornate” which happens to be the TR shape goals. 

While they can use a bit of sharpness in the edge of a garment, they are a romantic first and foremost and that yin should be honored through ROUND and SOFT shapes. 

Theatrical Romantic Line and Silhouette 

When you look at the silhouette of your clothing, they should honor your double curve. Kibbe does refer to this silhouette as “hourglass” but he does not mean in the traditional body typing sense. If we look at the silhouettes above one has a soft fabric that drapes over the double curve. This silhouette mimics the lines of your body and the shape of the garment is cut for curves. 

Whereas this straight, heavier dress is not cut for curve. It would make a Theatrical Romantic look bulkier because their waist is hidden and the fabric is too stiff. (however a Flamboyant Gamine would shine in that structure). 

Theatrical Romantics need waist emphasis. That means that the garment itself has pleating, seaming, or belts to define your waist. 

Adding a belt to any outfit won’t always give you the waist emphasis you need if you are belting a boxy or unconstructed piece. Also please note, David Kibbe hasn’t specifically defined these terms, so this is an evolution and intrepration of his system. 

Waist Emphasis Vs. Waist Definition 

Any ID can “show off” their waist. Even as a Flamboyant Natural, I can have my waist visible. But I don’t need the belts, or garments specifically cut to honor that double curve. 

The lines of your outfit should be draped and flowing. They can have a soft quality, and also be ornate and intricate. These smaller details harmonize with your narrow build and petite accommodations and enhance your glamorous vibe.

Avoid: You should generally avoid stiff fabrics, severe silhouettes, and unconstructed or boxy shapes. Sharp or straight lines in your silhouette, and anything that hides the waist. Strong vertical lines that don’t highlight your double curve. 

Theatrical Romantic Fabric 

I honestly think fabrics and fabric weight is a huge component of the Kibbe system and your personal style and it just does not get talked about enough (in my opinion). So often we revert to the line of the garment and forget the fabric weight impacts how those lines lay on top of our bodies. 

Because you are yin dominant, you want lightweight, drapeable fabrics. You want them to have a soft fluidity to them so that they gently drape over your double curve and rounded body shape. 

Fabrics like silks, jerseys, crepes, handkerchief linen, and challis all fit this nicely. And for knitwear, you want to go fluffier, softer knits like Angoras, light cashmere, and delicate boucles. 

Plush fabrics also help you create a softer feel to your look, so suedes, velvets, and shantungs can all harmonize nicely. But watch how “heavy” the suede is. 

Similarly, sheer and shiny fabrics allow your femme fatale chic to really shine. 

Avoid: Rough textures, heavy fabrics, stiff fabrics, dull finishes are generally to be avoided as a TR

Theatrical Romantic Detail & Necklines

The whole concept of the yin and yang systems is harmonizing. Because theatrical romantics are delicate and accommodate petite and double curve, we want the details of the outfits to mimic that. So ornate, rounded, delicate, intricate, and smaller-scale details work beautifully. 

Ideally, this detail should frame the face and create a focal point around your neck and face. This means necklines can be an especially important aspect to evaluate.  

Elements like bows, sheer lace, soft ruffles, ornate applique, or even a delicate jabot can all help create this emphasis. 

For necklines you want to be draped, smooth, fluid, and soft or curved. 

Shoulder seams should also be softer, and rounded. This can include puff sleeves, gather or tucks, or even larger rounded sleeves as long as they taper in at the wrist. The wrist can also be a place for ornate details like trim or buttons. 

Avoid: Plain or simple details, sharp or intense pieces, oversized or bulky, and anything that is “perky” or funky. 

Theatrical Romantic Waist Emphasis

Because TR’s have double curve they really need that waist emphasis. This is different than simple curve accommodation, which just generally translates to the waist being visible or gently highlighted. Waist emphasis means there is a visual stopping point on your waist. This can be created by how the garment is sewn, or by using a belt. But if you don’t emphasize your waist, your “two circles stacked on top of one another” can end up creating a lumpier look instead of the soft, curved beauty you are.  

Theatrical Romantic Separates 

Separates can be a bit tricky for the romantics in general. But ultimately, just keep in mind a few simple concepts. Keep things soft, rounded, and your waist emphasis in check and you’ll be in good shape.  

Jackets for the Theatrical Romantic 

TR’s accommodate petite so they want to do moderate to short length for jackets. And you want the silhouette to be cut with waist emphasis already. This can include a shape like a peplum, but could also be a well fitted, traditional blazer (fabric will be key to getting the closer fit!). 

Lapels can be ornate, soft, rounded, scalloped, ruffled or detailed. However because you have that touch of yang, you can also add a smidge of sharpness in your lapels as long as they are not oversized. (think more narrow and sharp)

Avoid: Oversized jackets, sharply tailored (intense) jackets, moderate or “classic” blazers, longer jackets, jackets that provide zero waist visibility 

Skirts for the Theatrical Romantic 

Skirts need to honor your curves and taper in towards the hem. This mimics the shape of your curves and honors your narrowness. Tulip skirts can work beautifully for this, as can a tradiotional pencil skirt. Kibbe in his book puts “pencil-slim” in the avoid category but I think that was a sign of the fabric capabilities of the 80’s. I personally think a pencil skirt would look beautiful on a TR as long as it was fitted, lighter visual weight/fabric, and has stretch in it. 

For hem lengths, you do not need to accommodate vertical (in Kibbe world), so you want a hem that hits around knee length and not too far below or above. 

If you want a skirt that is longer you can try a mid-calf bias cut skirt with an uneven hemline. This allows for movement below the knees but still has a soft shape that hugs your hip curves. 

You can also try circle skirts, trumpet skirts, or even a sarong style, as long as they have the ornate details and the “cut for curve” elements like gathering, shirring, draping etc… 

Avoid: Straight skirts, maxi skirts, wide or shapeless skirts, sharp pleats.  

Pants for the Theatrical Romantic 

It can be difficult to find pants that work well for Romantics without bending some of the “original” guidelines. 

Kibbe recommends soft, and draped pants that showcase your curves. That means you are looking for fabrics that are cut with curve, and that easily drape over those curves without bunching, pulling, or feeling too heavy. 

In order to find a good pair of pants I recommend focusing on fabric weight (lighter fabric) and checking to see if they have curve accommodating elements like gathering, soft pleats, or stretch. 

You want your pants to generally taper in towards the ankles and have hems that end around ankle length. 

Now, remember that these guidelines have shifted some to include the “head-to-toe” concept. So if you are wearing a piece that doesn’t fit these starter suggestions, make sure you keep your full outfit and look in perspective.  

Jeans for the Theatrical Romantic

Kibbe does not state specifically any style of jeans for most of the Kibbe IDs. However, I do have a video, here, that goes through my ideas for each type.

I think skinny jeans with a higher rise could work well for a theatrical romantic because they obviously accommodate that curve in the hipline. 

However, you could also try a cropped jean that is generally lighter denim (not super heavy/super stiff) that has gathers along the waist, or that has a clear curved silhouette from waist to lower hip. 

Tops for the Theatrical Romantic 

You want your tops, sweaters, blouses, and even t-shirts to reflect your yin. So again you’ll be looking for pliable fabrics, that have soft textures and soft shapes. 

Blouses

Blouses should be draped with ornate detail and because you have that Femme Fatale Chic you can pull off lavish and intricate trim details. 

Soft and silky blouses also look fabulous on you, just make sure that there is some waist emphasis. 

Elements like soft jabots, lace necklines, beaded necklines, and soft ruffles can all be nice details to look for. 

I feel like the blouse and top category really draws people to the TR ID.

Avoid: Stiffy tailored pieces, severe shapes, boxy shapes, and anything too “plain” 

Sweaters 

Heavy and chunky knits really belong more to the natural family because their coarseness and heaviness lean yang. However, remember it is about your full look, so don’t get discouraged.

Some easier sweater options for the Theatrical Romantic would be fluffy and plush knitts like angoras, mohair, or soft cashmeres. Knits should ideally be fitted at the waist and taper in towards your waistline (not boxy), and can also be fitted at the wrists or sleeeve hems. 

Avoid: Cardigans, fine knits that are “plain”, heavy or bulky knits, chunky knits, and baggy shape sweaters. 

T-shirts 

David Kibbe did not give any casual recommendations for most of the IDs, so he does not include tees or t-shirts. And based on my impression of his styling, I don’t think he holds casual fashion of today in high regard. He tends to lean towards revering the style of the hollywood icons.  

However, in my opinion T-shirts are pretty basic staple for any wardrobe in the modern decade. 

So how do you make tees work for a Theatrical Romantic? You will still be looking for soft, curved, and fitted elements. 

Tee shirts with round necklines, stitching details, curved hems, and soft fitted fabrics will work best.

You will probably want to avoid the overly boxy look or heavier weighted cotton tees. 

Theatrical Romantic Dresses 

Dresses that are “shapely” and have those intricate fitting details like shirring, gathering, and soft pleats can look very harmonious on you. You can also pull off a more defined shoulder because of that slight yang undercurrent.

Similarly those lavish details can really make your dress match your yin energy and essence. Sparkles, applique, beading, and shiny fabrics all work beautifully. 

You want to avoid anything too dull or plain. You are a romantic first and foremost so those lightweight fabrics with a tactile quality look amazing.

Avoid: Severe or sharply tailored pieces, unconstructed silhouettes, baggy or shapeless dresses, “no waist” styles, subdued or simple styles

Theatrical Romantic Evening Wear 

A lot of the dress recommendations will carry over to evening wear nicely. You want fitted shapes with waist emphasis first and foremost. And the more trim and lavish details the better. 

You can handle more cleavage baring dresses, and sparkly and draped fabrics. 

• Form-fitted
• Draped and shirred cocktail dresses 
• Fitted dinner suits with a peplum style jacket and glamorous trim 
• Bustier dresses 

Theatrical Romantic Use of Color 

Color can be an incredibly important element when building a head to toe outfit, and I again recommend you stay more true to your seasonal color palette and contrast level to create a truly harmonious look. 

If you’re curious to what David Kibbe recommends for TR color use, he suggests bright and lush colors. Avoiding highly contrasted, sharp, or perky color combination. 

He recommends vivid colors in your outfits as well, but also states that pastels can be elegant if the head-to-toe has a light energy. 

When using dark colors, it’s recommended to balance them out with a vivid hue so that you don’t lean too severe or yang. 

Avoid: Head-to-toe dark color schemes, full neutral looks, and monochromatic looks 

Theatrical Romantic Prints

Prints can have a lot of essence or energy to them and it is important to consider where they lean on the yin/yang scale so that it doesn’t overwhelm you or feel “off”. 

We want prints that don’t read as “severe”. He recommends again a vivid and luscious color palette. Ornate shapes, wild florals, rounded and feathered shapes, and moderate to large scale. 

Now you may thinking, I’m yin in size, why do I want moderate to larger scale prints? The dramatic undercurrent and femme fatale chic energy can handle those slightly larger, or lavish designs. This may take some experimentation to see how large you can go, or when it starts to overwhelm you. 

Avoid: We want to avoid any perky or animated prints that lean playful and gamine. SImilarly small and symmetrical prints or plaids/stripes are too dull for you. 

Theatrical Romantic Accessories 

Picking up on some themes yet? Lavish and ornate will be your adjectives for all accessories. And David Kibbe recommends investing in quality accessories since they can really add the polished finishing touches to your look.  

Shoes: 

• Delicate
• “feminine” 
• Strappy Pumps
• Open back heels
• Open toe heels or flats 
• Delicate or detailed flats 

Avoid: Plain pumps, angular heels, chunky styles 

Bags 

• Small, rounded bags 
• Lightweight, supple/soft leather 
• Trim- applique, beading, gathers etc..
• Fabric bags
• Delicate straps 
• Narrow shapes 

Belts

These are a key staple in the Theatrical Romantic wardrobe because they allow for more waist emphasis. 

• Soft leather belts 
• Moderate to wide (this depends on the person, but allows for more waist definition/emphasis)
• Ornate, detailed buckles
• Bejewled, beaded, or decorative elements 

Avoid: Overly narrow styles, slim/simple styles, and anything too severe or stiff 

Jewelry for Theatrical Romantics

David Kibbe highly emphasizes the use of jewelry for the Theatrical Romantic and says it is one of the most important elements to crafting your entire harmonious look. It provides the glamour and sophistication that a traditional TR craves. 

Again we are shooting for ornate, lavish, detailed, and rounded. Roccoco or baroque influences are fantastic because they encompass that over-the-top detail and swirling shapes. 

Sparkles and shine are perfect for you as well. And he recommends not shying away from the shine and glamour even in the daytime. 

Avoid: Geometrical, severe or overly unique pieces. Small symetrical pieces, or chunky/heavy styles. (Evaluate the visual weight of the piece, does it feel rounded with movement? Yes! Or heavy and sharp? Nope). 

Theatrical Romantic Hair 

I’m not going to lie, the romantics and classics really need to put effort into their hairstyles, because they require a very “polished” look. Whereas classics lean more smooth and moderate, Theatrical Romantics lean full and lavish, but still “coiffed”. 

You want to have stylized and intentionally rounded and shaped hair. Teasing, waves, and perms are recommended styling techniques. 

If you opt for a shorter haircut, then you still want to lean ornate and polished, and not too “perky”. 

Layering can help you achieve the curves you need and assist in adding fullness but avoid going to “lioness” or natural with it.  

You want soft, not stiff. 

Avoid: Blunt cuts, geometric cuts, overly layered or “lioness” style hair, wash and wear styles. 

Theatrical Romantic Makeup 

Makeup really helps you complete your head to toe and give you that “finished” look. You want soft makeup but definitely a more full face. Refined and glamorous are all great adjectives to shoot for. 

Sparkle and blended eyeshadows look fantastic on you, and can even be implemented in the daytime. Soft and bright colors are perfect for your eyeshadows but should never be too sharp in application.

Similarly, you want soft and rosy cheeks and not an overly contoured look. Glossy lips are a perfect way to add a high-shine element to your face. 

Avoid: Heavy or dark shades, and neutral shades. Smokey palettes can age you, and minimal makeup can flatten your essence

Theatrical Romantic Outfit Ideas

Now, ultimately your unique style recipe, lifestyle needs, and head-to-toe will dictate your full outfits. However, here are a couple of ideas to see all these style guidelines in action. 

I know you might be thinking that blouse leans more Soft Gamine, but actually Kibbe recommends “soft jabots” for the Theatrical Romantic. This soft and light blouse tucked in, would be a great conservative and business or work appropriate outfit.

This outfit is why so many people want to be a TR. But just remember a lot of IDs could pull off a bustier dress, it just depends on the full head-to-toe.

This does deviate a bit from some of the original recommendations and the over-the-top glamour Kibbe recommends. But I still think it maintains the petite and double curve accommodation and hits most of the theatrical romantic aesthetic highlights. ( and sometimes TR’s might need to dress for cold weather ;)).

Theatrical Romantic + Kitchener Essences 

Now, if you’ve deep dived into Kibbe, you also might have stumbled upon the Face Types or Style Essences by John Kitchener (and Joan Songer) of Personal Style Consultants.

You can read more about all the style essences, here.

Both of these systems evaluate your yin/yang balance. However, the style essences puts a bit more focus on your face and you are a blend of essences.

David Kibbe, who created image identity systems also attributed “essences” to his types, but he preselected the blends based on how fabric drapes over the body. 

So a theatrical romantic would have a romantic essence with a small amount of dramatic essence. 

However, if we look at Kitchner’s system, we see there are some people who have faces that simply don’t match their Kibbe ID. Or a celebrity that they have both typed drastically differently. For instance, Kibbe designated Nicole Kidman as Flamboyant Natural (natural essence with dramatic undercurrent). Whereas Kitchener has her as a Classic + Ingenue essence. 

So if you have Kibbe Theatrical Romantic Body but your face just doesn’t seem to match, or something about the Femme Fatale Chic style identity isn’t meshing, I suggest rounding out your style recipe by examining your Kitchener Essence. 

I have deep dive videos on (almost) all the essences here.  

And here are some outfit examples for Theatrical Romantics with varying essences: 

Shopping for Theatrical Romantic Pieces

If you’re trying to hone your wardrobe and integrate more TR pieces, let’s go over some questions to make sure the garment will be a good fit 

1. Is the fabric soft? Drapeable? (Yes)
2. Does the piece have waist emphasis and is it cut for curve? (Yes) 
3. Does the garment have any sharpness? (Small elements like in the shoulders are okay, but generally, we want the silhouette to be soft and fluid)
4. Is it cut for double curve? Look for shaping elements around the waist and fabric that will easily drape over your curves. 
5. Are there lavish and ornate details? (Yes)
6. How would you describe the print of the garment? We want ornate, lavish, swirling, round- not perky, animated, funky, sharp. 
7. Is anything about the garment “intense”? Long, sharp, or severe details lean yang 
8. Do you like the garment itself? Does it work for your personal style? Never dress with only Kibbes TR style guidelines in mind, your opinions and tastes should always be at the core of what you wear 

Theatrical Romantic: Shop the Look

I hope this style guide has helped you confirm that you are or maybe are not a Theatrical Romantic. 

Theatrical romantics are beautiful, enchanting, and glamorous, but EVERY Kibbe Id is beautiful and you don’t need the interesting moniker of TR to wear a bodycon dress. 

Now, if you are a TR, go be your best and unique Femme Fatale. And rock your double curve!

Pin the below image so you always have access to this ever-growing TR style guide!