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If you’ve been exploring the Kibbe system, you’ve probably stumbled upon a bit of a mystery: the Pure Natural Body Type. David Kibbe no longer includes it in his current system, and yet… many women still identify with this body type and believe it best describes them.
We get it: with all the information out there, learning more about your body type can be confusing. Should you ignore Pure Natural? Or can it still help you define your personal style?
Here’s our take: Although Pure Natural is no longer “official” within the Kibbe system, at Our Fashion Garden, we’ve found it incredibly helpful in supporting clients who don’t feel fully represented by Soft Natural or Flamboyant Natural. For us, it’s less about rules and more about giving you clarity as you explore your style. So, definitely, keeping the Pure Natural Kibbe has been very helpful in our consultations!
In this post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about this kibbe: why it was removed from the original system, why we continue to use it, what makes it unique, and, most importantly, what key points to keep in mind if your kibbe is Pure Natural.
But first!
Why was Pure Natural removed from the Kibbe system?
Some time ago, David Kibbe removed the “Pure Natural” type (along with Pure Classic and Pure Gamine) from the list of operative types. The reason? In essence, Kibbe wanted to simplify his system, as he felt that having more finely divided “pure” types created confusion, and that most people leaned more clearly toward Soft or Yang, in this case, toward Soft Natural or Flamboyant Natural.
Kibbe stated that people often have a dominant Yin or Yang influence, and that those intermediate “pure” categories weren’t really necessary, as the other Natural subtypes (Soft Natural, Flamboyant Natural) now incorporate many traits that people used to identify as “Pure Natural.”
That said, what was intended to gain clarity also created a sense of limbo for many. Since “Pure Natural” described a blend of traits (neither as soft or rounded as Soft Natural, nor as bold or angular as Flamboyant Natural), lots of people felt they fit most closely there. Removing this type didn’t always help people feel seen and made finding their style identity a bit more complicated. This gap is exactly what we’ve noticed in working with clients who say, “I’m not quite Flamboyant Natural, and Soft Natural feels too soft,” and why we believe there’s value in keeping “Pure Natural” alive as a helpful guide.
Why We Still Use It
Even though Pure Natural was removed from Kibbe’s official system, we’ve chosen to keep it in our practice, and for a good reason.
Over the years, we’ve worked with many clients who tried to fit into Soft Natural or Flamboyant Natural, only to feel like they were missing something. Soft Natural often felt too “delicate,” while Flamboyant Natural felt too yang or sharp. But Pure Natural gave that middle ground. While not as common as other types, it’s still here!
For us, it’s not about sticking to theory for theory’s sake; it’s more about making the system truly useful for real people. And having Pure Natural as an option allows us to guide women who don’t see themselves in extremes, but instead feel and look great in that harmonious balance of relaxed lines and effortless ease, those who have the grounded characteristics of the Natural family without leaning strongly in one “Flamboyant” or “Soft” direction.
If recognizing yourself in Pure Natural helps you embrace your body lines and dress with more confidence, then it’s worth keeping.
What are the main characteristics of a Pure Natural?
Pure Natural sits right in the middle of the Natural family, leaning neither too much toward the softness of Soft Natural nor the boldness of Flamboyant Natural. Within this group, Pure Natural is the most balanced, though still relaxed; it’s neither overly soft nor overly sharp. This Kibbe has angular features, but not as sharp as a Dramatic. Still, within the entire spectrum, we could say that Pure Natural is a sharp body type, but with rounded edges, and this detail is what makes it feel visually neither very soft nor very sharp, but somewhere in between.
This body type typically looks relaxed and effortless. Clothes tend to look best when they reflect this balance between simplicity and comfort (but of course, this doesn’t mean they can’t be refined or you can not dress up).
The lines that suit them best are not as oversized as those of an FN. FN garments require more fabric, so if we were to put this clothing on someone with a Pure Natural figure, it would completely overshadow them and overwhelm their figure, making extra length or exaggerated proportions unnecessary. Although Pure Natural looks good in oversized garments, the proportions should be more balanced than those of the more Yang-like Kibbes.
Unlike Soft Natural, there’s no need to subtly emphasize the waist. SN fabrics are thinner and drape more than those used by an FN or PN. If you are Pure Natural and wear Soft Natural clothing, it will look as if the garments are clinging to your body.
People with Pure Natural Kibbe look great in looks that aren’t overly elaborate. Here are some key points regarding the best dressing lines and style details for this Kibbe:
- A straight or slightly relaxed silhouette (not boxy or fitted).
- A natural structure that doesn’t overwhelm the figure.
- Medium proportions: neither cropped nor overly elongated.
- It pairs best with clean lines and minimal details. Embellishments and textures will usually have a rustic finish, not super polished, but not overdone either.
- Fabrics with a natural drape, such as linen, cotton, lightweight wools, raw silk, and matte finishes, are often excellent textile choices, especially for everyday or casual-formal wear.
- Clothing should naturally fit the body rather than cling or drown it.
- Accessories should add a subtle touch rather than drama.
Pure Natural vs. Soft Natural vs. Flamboyant Natural
Within the Natural family, each subtype has nuances that make a difference in silhouette, proportion, and recommended style. Many women feel confused because they see Natural features in themselves, but can’t identify whether they are fully NF or SN, so perhaps you’re not so far off and are just somewhere in between. This is where the Pure Natural category comes in. Let’s compare the three Kibbes to provide you with a clearer understanding.
Let’s start with the most Yang Kibbe: Flamboyant Natural
- Its overall look is bold, striking, and commanding.
- Silhouette: Broad, elongated, slightly angular.
- Proportions: Taller, longer lines, bigger frame, long vertical line.
- Face and Body Features: Angular, prominent bone structure. Wide-spaced eyes, broad lips and nose, fleshy/muscular cheekbones.
- Best fabrics: Structured, soft but heavy materials, textured fabrics.
- The energy this body type gives us is that of someone strong, confident, and with a bold presence.
- When gaining weight, a FN tends to accumulate weight below their waist, on their stomach area. Their shoulders will look broader too. They won’t gain a lot of weight on their chest, or their limbs. Their arms and legs will stay lean.
Let’s continue with the middle ground: Pure Natural
- Its overall look is balanced, neutral, and easygoing.
- Silhouette: Straight, gently relaxed, slightly angular. Muscular, broad.
- Proportions: Medium height (but still looks tall), the bones are not as wide and squarish as FN’s.
- Face and Body Features: Wide-spaced eyes, broad lips, and fleshy/muscular cheekbones.
- Best fabrics: Relaxed, matte, natural textures, moderate weight.
- The energy this body type gives us is that of someone effortlessly chic, with a laid-back balance.
- When gaining weight they still look taller than they are, and weight accumulates on their abdominal area, making the body look somewhat squarish. Their jaws get softer and their shoulders get wider.
and finally, Soft Natural
- Its overall look is more softened, flowy, and approachable
- Silhouette: A woman’s body will most likely have a subtle hourglass silhouette. Hence, their clothes look better with slight curve emphasis and waist definition.
- Proportions: Medium height (but still looks tall), slightly rounded edges.
- Face and Body Features: Round eyes (but not necessarily), full lips, and their noses can be small or wide.
- Best fabrics: Drapey, soft, moderate-weight or light fabrics, natural textures.
- The energy this body type gives us is feminine with ease.
- When gaining weight a Soft Natural’s body becomes very soft. Their waist loses its definition and tends to form cellulite very fast on their fleshier areas. Upper arms, tights, and hips collect the weight.
You may not be a soft natural if…
- You only have balanced features (in this case, you may be more YIN).
- You have very thin, non-fleshy limbs, or your bone structure is very delicate.
- Your hips are straight.
- If you feel that enhancing your waist or wearing clothes with a strong emphasis on curves doesn’t flatter you.
You may not be a flamboyant natural if…
- If oversized long coats, chunky accessories, or elongated lines make you feel like the clothes are wearing you.
- If you have an extreme hourglass figure.
- If your facial features are delicate.
- If you are very petite.
- If you have narrow shoulders.
If you love the relaxed vibe of the Natural family but find Flamboyant Natural recommendations overwhelming and Soft Natural dressing lines too soft, that’s another sign you might be a Pure Natural.
It’s also worth noting that David Kibbe himself has re-typed some women he initially considered Pure Naturals into other categories, often Dramatic Classic. A famous example is Jennifer Aniston: she’s definitely not a Flamboyant Natural, but she’s not a Soft Natural either. Many have placed her under Dramatic Classic because she doesn’t quite fit the other two.
And that’s what makes Pure Natural so fascinating, and why we think it’s still useful: it feels like a blend of Natural and Classic. You need that laid-back ease, but also a touch of moderation.
Does this mean Pure Naturals can simply dress like a Dramatic Classic? Not really. The priorities are different.
- Dramatic Classic is first moderate, then sharp.
- Pure Natural is first relaxed, then moderate.
- And using this comparison, Flamboyant Natural is relaxed first, then sharp.
- And Soft Natural is relaxed first, then soft.
This subtle order shift makes all the difference when choosing clothes that fit your body. Let’s look at the example of Jennifer Aniston and the comparison of how she looks with outfits from different Kibbes
- At first glance, the first look might seem like it fits, but it doesn’t quite work on Jennifer: the pants are too long and heavy, disrupting her natural proportions. In Flamboyant Natural, that extra bit of drama (exaggerated lengths) looks perfect. But Jennifer lacks that angular strength to sustain it, and the result is that she looks a bit “dragged down” by the garment rather than the owner of the look.
- In the second image, the main problem is the blouse. It’s too soft, light, and floaty. In a Soft Natural, these types of flowing fabrics work because they highlight her lines. But on Jennifer, it looks disconnected: the blouse floats and doesn’t harmonize with her straighter, more balanced frame, making it seem as if the garment is “fighting” with her body rather than supporting it.
- And in the third look, although Jennifer looks polished, the dress is too restricted and structured for her. In a Dramatic Classic, that sharp cleanliness enhances the figure, but on Jennifer, it makes it seem as if the garment is restricting her movement. There isn’t enough “relaxation” in the lines, making the outfit look stiff and almost dull.
These three looks clearly illustrate why Jennifer doesn’t quite fit into FN, SN, or DC. But now let’s look at some examples of outfits that look great on her and that, of course, match the Pure Natural Kibbe.
- The first look works perfectly because it reflects the relaxed yet moderated essence of Pure Natural. The denim has structure, but doesn’t look overly sharp. The slightly open denim shirt with rolled-up sleeves gives it an effortless feel that still looks clean and natural.
- And as for the second look, here we see Pure Natural at its best: straight lines, simple and fresh garments, comfortable yet stylish. The shirt has structure but is relaxed enough not to look too stiff (like a Dramatic Classic) or too loose (like a Soft Natural).
In short, these examples are comfortable but aren’t messy. They use natural fabrics and straight cuts that flatter the figure without restricting it. The outfits look effortless, yet they look polished and purposeful.
Dressing the Pure Natural: Style Tips
If you’re a Pure Natural, the key to your style is effortless balance. You don’t need to chase extremes, neither too soft nor too bold. Instead, focus on simplicity, comfort, and natural textures that let your presence shine without distraction. Some keywords you should keep in mind if this is your body type are:
Comfort, Simplicity, Straight lines, Natural fabrics
Wardrobe Staples for You:
- Straight-leg jeans: a comfortable go-to piece, not overly detailed, and versatile. Like this example from BODEN.
- Relaxed blazers or jackets: structure without being overwhelming.
- Simple knit dresses: one-and-done pieces that feel chic but easy.
- Classic button-downs: in cotton or linen for a crisp yet laid-back vibe, and the open neckline looks great on you.
- Sneakers or loafers: practical and timeless footwear.
You can visit our online personal shopper, Handpicked Attire, to find more clothes filtered by your Kibbe Body Type without effort. I assure you it will make your shopping experience much more easier, more fun, and absolutely conscious!
Textures & Fabrics
Stick to natural, breathable options: linen, cotton, lightweight wool, and soft denim. They work with your natural lines and never look “overdone.” You don’t need something very light or something very rigid, but something in between.
Accessories
Less is more for this Kibbe, so go for practical bags, simple belts, small hoops, or delicate layered chains. Your accessories should blend into your look rather than dominate it.
To give you another example, think of Pure Natural as minimal boho. I don’t mean full of ruffles and super flowing, but rather easy silhouettes, neutral or earthy tones, and unfussy details blended to create a wardrobe that feels grounded and approachable.
One of the most common confusions is trying to “dress up” the Natural essence too much. But the real magic comes from embracing simplicity, and not resisting it. When you allow yourself to dress in a way that feels easy, you’ll notice how put-together you still look, because balance and nature are your strongest style elements.
After this enlightening analysis, I’d like to remind you that this system isn’t about fitting into a mold. Although we refer to them as Kibbe Body “types”, it’s not about limiting, but rather offering a “guiding image” or a reference you can relate to.
Systems like Kibbe and even our use of Pure Natural are designed to be, as I mentioned, a guide. They’re tools to provide clarity, especially if you’ve ever felt trapped between categories or confused by recommendations you didn’t resonate with.
Pure Natural is an option that, as we explained, is still very useful to us, and we’re sure many people can still identify with it. If this is your Kibbe, remember that you don’t need exaggerated or forced details: you can look elegant and confident by opting for comfort, simplicity, and authenticity.
Choose what makes you feel good, experiment, and, above all, enjoy the process of discovering your personal style.
And if you’re still unsure of your type, still have questions, or simply want to be sure and get your personalized guide to learn how to merge your personal style with your Kibbe’s lines, we’d love to help. Through our Kibbe and Essence analyses, we can guide you toward the styles that feel most natural for your body, personality, and lifestyle, so getting dressed every morning is easy.
We’d love to hear your opinion, and if you think Pure Natural is still a useful category within this fun system, we hope this information has been helpful!
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