The ten style lines

David Kibbe's 2025 book cut his system from thirteen identities to ten, dropped the old quiz, and put draping and line first. These are our own guides to each line. Hue & Line isn't affiliated with David Kibbe.

Dramatic

Dramatic
A long, narrow, sharply drawn vertical line that comes alive in clean columns, crisp edges and bold, uncluttered shapes.Soft Dramatic
A long vertical line wrapped in lush curve: grand, sensual shapes that drape, wrap and flow while keeping their length.

Natural

Flamboyant Natural
A long vertical with breadth and easy, open energy: relaxed, unconstructed shapes and generous layers that move freely.Soft Natural
A moderate, softly rounded line with easy width: gentle drape, a relaxed but defined waist and approachable, touchable fabrics.

Classic

Dramatic Classic
A balanced, symmetrical line with a crisp edge: precise tailoring, clean proportions and refined polish with a hint of sharpness.Soft Classic
A balanced, symmetrical line with a gentle rounded finish: polished, softly tailored, and quietly elegant.

Gamine

Flamboyant Gamine
A compact, staccato line with a sharp, angular spark: cropped, graphic, crisp and full of energy.Soft Gamine
A compact, playful line with rounded curves: cropped, waist-defined, sweet with a spark of snap.

Romantic

Romantic
A soft, rounded, curvy line from head to toe: lush fabric, delicate detail and a defined waist.Theatrical Romantic
A curved, delicate line with a sharp, tapered edge: glamorous, fitted and finely detailed.

From thirteen to ten

If you learned the 1987 system, here is where each old identity sits today.

Dramatic	Dramatic
Soft Dramatic	Soft Dramatic
Flamboyant Natural	Flamboyant Natural
Natural	Retired; usually Soft Natural or Flamboyant Natural
Soft Natural	Soft Natural
Dramatic Classic	Dramatic Classic
Classic	Retired; usually Dramatic Classic or Soft Classic
Soft Classic	Soft Classic
Flamboyant Gamine	Flamboyant Gamine
Gamine	Retired; usually Flamboyant Gamine or Soft Gamine
Soft Gamine	Soft Gamine
Romantic	Romantic
Theatrical Romantic	Theatrical Romantic