Gamine Style, Interpreted
Many of you have been asking about the particulars of my Style Analysis with Red Leopard, and specifically about the “Gamine” style personality. So here’s a bit more detail about the style guidelines, and how I’m incorporating them.
(No, those mostly aren’t my colors. 😉)
What Does Gamine Style Mean?
I’ll admit, that assessment both delighted and surprised me. Delighted, because in general it’s a style I’ve always loved and been drawn to. Surprised, because I didn’t (and don’t) have what I’ve always considered a “gamine” body. Yes, I’m petite, but with more curves and softer contours than I usually associate with the iconic gamines (Jean Seberg, Audrey Hepburn). Red Leopard very generally defines gamine as neat, fun, snappy, tomboyish. In their style taxonomy, a Gamine can be any shape.
But that wasn’t the extent of the style analysis, just the starting framework. The Red Leopard team took detailed measurements, and analyzed my body shape and proportions. They also looked at my face shape and features. As a result, I left with a very detailed notebook of which shapes, fabrics, accessories, and design details will work best for me. It’s a very comprehensive process, and very individualized. So the cuts and styles that work for me may diverge from someone else who is also a Gamine but has different proportions. (Manina, for example.)
Specifics…
Some of the personalized Gamine style suggestions were already in line with how I like to dress. Clean shapes and unfussy styles (no tiers, ruffles, big splashy prints), but with interesting small-scale details. Slim cropped and ankle-length pants. Ankle boots, loafers, low-heeled shoes. Quirky, “funky” elements. Nothing too rugged or distressed.
Then there were the re-alignments:
Fits: tops and jackets are best when shorter (top of hip length) and more fitted, but not tucked in. (After years of wearing long-over-lean silhouettes almost exclusively, this is the biggest change for me.) Avoid baggy, slouchy, oversized cuts.
Necklines: turns out I can wear crewnecks, as long as they aren’t higher than my clavicle. Boatnecks are good and shallow v-necks. Necklines are best when “neat.” I can even wear shirts buttoned all the way up, depending on what I’m wearing them with. (I tried on a few different tops they had on hand during my Red Leopard session to be able to see the effect, and they were right.)
Jackets: my best lengths are either top of thigh or knee length (so my long navy blazer is 👍). Some boxier styles are actually OK. (Again, demonstrated with some of the pieces I tried on during the session.) Mid-thigh is actually my worst length for jackets or cardigans. (I still have a few in my wardrobe; will avoid buying any more.)
Textures and Prints: too much texture overwhelms me, so big chunky sweaters are a no-go. Same for chunky bouclé fabrics ❌. Nothing too stiff, but I do need some structure. I’ve been moving away from droopy fabrics anyway, so that makes sense. My best prints are smaller and evenly spaced, not too much contrast.
Jewelry and Accessories: they suggested smaller post earrings for daytime, which I’m beginning to incorporate. I’ve been retiring my heavier earrings anyway, so this works for me. Smaller hoops are good too. For scarves, again it’s about staying away from too much volume or texture which swamps me. And keeping ties simple and neat, not a lot of fabric flapping around. Bags: small to medium sized, with some structure.
Implementing & Adapting The Gamine Style Guidelines
Now, all of these are “tools, not rules.” I’m adapting some of the Gamine style guidelines for our lifestyle, which is mostly casual, and for our locale (Southern California) where being too “done up” feels out of place. Sometimes I incorporate a some “Natural” elements into my style, which Annie says is fine, as long as it’s neat and not too bulky/textured.
Doesn’t this all feel a bit limiting? No, actually. I like having a framework, and being able to quantify why something works or doesn’t. It’s helping me to build a cohesive wardrobe but with a little more color and interest. I’ve become much more discriminating about what I purchase, and what I do have works well together. (And I’ve hung onto a few favorite pieces that aren’t quite Gamine until I can replace them with ones that are.)
It’s also helped me to appreciate the uniqueness of my physical self. I’ve stopped thinking that losing weight is going to completely change what I can wear. I’m less self-conscious, and more accepting of what I look like now. I feel freer to wear styles without worrying about whether they make me look taller and thinner.
The Style Personality Profiles
Here are the other Style Personality Profiles that Red Leopard uses. You might be one or a combination of more than one.
- The Diva/Dramatic: flamboyant, over the top, intense, can be a little bit intimidating. Think Annie Lennox, Grace Jones, Lady Gaga, Rhianna
- The Classic: Elegant, well-groomed, understated and chic. Think Grace Kelly, Duchess of Cambridge, Kristin Scott Thomas, Cate Blanchett.
- The Gentlewomen/Natural Classic: Sporty yet elegant, relaxed yet put-together. Think Meryl Streep, Jennifer Anniston, Princess Diana.
- The Adventurer/Natural: Sporty, outdoorsy, relaxed and wholesome, needs easy, textured styles. Think: Lauren Hutton, Ali McGraw, Julia Roberts.
- The Gamine: neat, cute, fun, funky. Think Audrey Hepburn, Emma Watson, Carey Mulligan, Ellen DeGeneres.
- The Princess: pretty, delicate, feminine, with small-scale, petite features. Think Emma Stone, Natalie Portman, Naomi Watts, Amanda Seyfried.
- The Bohemian/Natural Romantic: Feminine, sexy, glamorous, earthy. Think: Drew Barrymore, Lisa Kudrow, Kate Winslet, Lily Tomlin.
- The Starlet: Pretty, feminine, sweetly sexy. Think Reese Witherspoon, Christina Ricci, Marilyn Monroe, Scarlett Johansson.
- The Romantic: Glamorous, sophisticated, ultra-feminine and usually curvy. Think: Christina Hendricks, Elizabeth Taylor, Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey.
- The Gypsy/Musketeer: Theatrical, flamboyant, exciting and earthy. Think Helena Bonham Carter, Debra Messing, Salma Hayek.
Which of the style profiles (or combination of) do you think best suits you?
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The one thing I noticed when you had your colors and style analysis is you were wearing shorter silhouettes. That style is very becoming on you. I too, am 5’4. When I wear longer cardigans like the jcrew coatigans they look horrible on me. I look like I’m wearing a bathrobe. I can wear longer coats if they are structured. I gave all the coatigans to my 5’9 daughter and they look wonderful on her.
I agree with Robyn that the new silhouette is very flattering, though I also liked your dramatic dusters. It’s the in-between stuff that doesn’t quite work on us short women (I’m also 5’4).
My inclination is Classic, but my lifestyle is anything but elegant and dressy. Sigh. Therein lies the problem.
I fear that I don’t properly understand any style profiles/types that I’ve seen described . The main problem seems to be that if celebrities are used as examples that usually means actresses and if they are any good they will not look the same in different roles – including the role of glamorous star on the red carpet . Are not these public styles dictated by stylists ? I recall many years ago when Joan Collins was still in ‘Dynasty’ that she said she was always expected to look super glam like her character but that her personal style was much more casual . The interview was illustrated with a photo of her in her then London home in – a green chiffon dress ! This goes even more strongly for the Royals here in the UK . As Lady Diana Spencer she famously committed the faux pas of wearing a black (!) strapless low cut gown to a public event and was later induced to wear longer skirts for her engagement photos . The Queen herself apparently often wears trousers (other than for riding) but has never been photographed in them . And they all wear hats all the time !
So really I don’t know how I would describe my style . I assume I must have one since people say things like ” that’s very you ” ! I aspire to be well-groomed , pulled together in the sense of no bits falling off or getting in the way and love the unusual . I would have called myself classic at one time but the word is now used for jeans – which I never wear partly because they appear to have become mandatory !
Sorry this is so long but I have been inspired to think about all this by your most interesting posts about your developing style directions . I do think you look terrific now – not that you have ever been less than chic . I wish one could ‘like’ your posts because they are so good generally and spark interesting debates .
Another way to look at these style profiles is to remove the celebrities from them. Just look at the style and description and ask what that tells you. Think of how you dress and what “speaks to you”. It will probably be a combination of a few of these style profiles.
Nice breakdown of the process. I am a blend of gamine, natural and classic. I look good in separates, need clean lines and some structure. Color works well and patterns tend to be low to medium contrast, asymmetrical with a lot of negative space. Hoop earrings and solid circles work best with my facial features, no chunky jewelry.
I have always thought you look great, even before your style redo. You have a good eye. I look forward to your post every day. I do wish you would show more pictures of you or other non models wearing the clothes .
Hi Darlene, thanks! My outfit posts almost always consist of clothing and accessories I’ve purchased for my own wardrobe. Because I’m very short (5’1″) I need to wear Petite sizes (which aren’t often carried in brick and mortar stores) or have regular sizes altered. Both of which limit what I have access to model and photograph. I like to be able to feature a variety of clothing for various body types, color palettes, and style preferences on the blog. So for clothing other than my own, I need to rely on retailers’ images.
I am enjoying all these reflections and modifications following your Red Leopard Consultation. I am inspired to plan a trip to London! I think your gradual process is smart and the suggestions right on especially in regards to your color palette.
I had an initial exchange with the Red Leopard Ladies and didn’t resonate with their suggestion of classic. I would tend to the Bohemian/ natural romantic by preference. I wonder if there is room for some back and forth to find the right category?
In any case, I enjoy following your style journey.
What a great post to start the week with! I have always been a gamine style even before I knew what it was called. Always drawn to Audrey photos and her fabulous look. I may be a little adventurer/classic also. I do love the outdoors and dress for that occasion but I never stray too far from the gamine. The part of your post that resonates with me is the jacket length. I always thought I looked best in shorter jackets (and I think you do too) I have “suffered through” the tunics and long over lean look trying to convince myself it was a good look for me. I feel liberated now. It’s not my best look and I don’t have to embrace it just because I’m a woman of a certain age! Thank you for the educational post. I would love to read more about jewelry for the different style profiles.
Rondi,
I’m not sure what you mean by “a woman of a certain age” needing to follow long over lean. At 5’6” with long, thin legs and a short torso long over lean suits me best. Essentially calling it the default look for old ladies is a bit unkind. I think we can all embrace our own style profiles without demeaning those of others.
Elizabeth, Oh my. This is what happens when I post before coffee! I never meant long over lean is the “default for old ladies”. I consider myself a good writer but apparently I did not communicate well this time. Long over lean is a very attractive and classy look. I cannot carry it off but many can. Sometimes society tells us we should be more covered up at a certain age. And I felt that pressure. Longer garments made me feel ridiculous while others look glamorous. Unkind? No that is not me. Perhaps overly enthusiastic about having a chance to write about style in a blog that always features the most interesting women and their comments.
Rondi,
Many thanks for the clarification! The written word is sometimes tricky to interpret correctly, and I appreciate that you responded.
Thank you, Elizabeth, for your understanding. This blog has helped me realize that my personal style is best for me and I wanted to share my journey. Une Femme d’un Certain Age is so helpful!!
I’m 5’5″ with similar shape and like to do long shirts/cardigans over slim jeans, skirts and shorts. It works for my feeling of slightly more dressy skinny woman ( over certain age – 53 ) living in Bay area , California. However I’d like not to be in one category of style – maybe because I’m still figuring it out or maybe because I feel it a bit limiting for me.
For what it’s worth, your post did not strike me in any way as demeaning anyone. You used yourself as the only example and did not stray into judging anyone. This is a case of others reading into someone’s text that which is floating through *their* minds. “I don’t have to embrace [this one look] just because I’m a woman of a certain age” does not, in any way, say that anyone out there reading this should identify with the look, the age, or the idea that you are judging an entire group of people. You didn’t write this wrong, but your reader definitely interpreted your words in a negative light. This is not unusual at all; readers usually do put their own inflection on others’ written words.
I am enjoying your process as well. And your examples of mature gamine are of interest to me. I’m thinking I fit into the Princess/ gamine/ classic category somewhere. People describe me as petite, pretty, delicate, feminine, animated ( as I like to dance), a surprise to me! I had myself pegged differently of course, due to my muscular legs! And I can see I thought I was “ bigger” than petite because of how clothes fit me, boots too tight in calves, my bottom pulled the pants funny, and tops hung, because of a small bust , but grabbed my forearms tight. I can see now, the fashion “ du jour” can have a lasting effect on our views of ourselves, no wonder we new help! Thanks again for your explanations, and journey.
I think the most important “takeaway” from your Red Leopard sessions, is body acceptance and not always letting what makes one feel that a certain look is slimming, and therefore “right”. Loving and accepting our bodies is so crucial.
I am glad Susan qualified that description of gamine! The only issue I have is with Audrey Hepburn being called upon to be the iconic gamine. Maybe in her younger years but she definitely skewed Classic in her later years. I have a biography and checked the photos she might have been more Bohemian. This is the trouble I have with this type of ‘style slotting’. In my younger years(20’s) I wore a very short pixie tended to dress ‘boyishly’ ( read gender neutral street urchin)and my Father commented many times on my “gamine” look.( I think he was searching for a femme version of tomboy..)As I got older my style evolved, I grew my hair out and would have considered my self classic( a regular Kate Middleton! Maybe even a bit Mumsy!!) but forward many years and my style is more Stevie Nicks Bohemian/natural. I am comfortable and love my clothing. The only thing that has stayed the same is my colouring which is winter maybe a dash of summer. A big yuck to the Fall/spring colours for me:(
I dislike most of the loafer, brogues etc and prefer booties, ballet flats, suede boots have an enviable wardrobe of cashmere items. Rarely wear jeans unless black. I am drawn to short over long but love the drama of long over lean too. I just know when I put on something if it’s ‘me’. When my twenty something son or colleagues compliment it’s a keeper!
Maybe I am lucky having been raised by artistic/designer parents who pushed the boundaries of their personal style ( albeit mother was a partial hostage to her 1950’s cohort phoney belief about ‘ladylike’:)
I do get tired of the general belief that the goal of clothing is to make us look tall and slim. If we’re one or neither, clothing won’t make us into something we’re not. Nothing can fool the eye that much.
A far better choice is body acceptance, and clothing that makes us look our personal best at our size and shape. Style personalities don’t work for me for this reason. Form dictates function. Function dictates form. Personality enters into it in colors, patterns and accessories my case.
ALL of this.
Thanks , Katrinka ! Thus I am a Classic/Diva – however contradictory that sounds . I would like to be as Classic as my mother was at my age but can’t do understated . When I’ve tried I just become boring/get bored . My mother was more Romantic when young but I couldn’t do that either – never having been seen as very feminine , which she was .
Love your blog, but these categories strike me as hopelessly stereotypical and the product of some 1950’s casting director’s idea of the narrow categories that women need to squeeze themselves into in order to present an image to the world that men can be comfortable with. I get it that’s it’s just for fun and to help figure out the style that suits one best, but the terminology is downright icky. ‘innocent and provocative’? ewwww.
I very much appreciate your comments. You’ve articulated what was bothering me about the descriptions of the styles. ‘innocent and provocative’ – icky indeed! While I appreciate the notion that there are certain commonalities that create one of these style categories, I don’t care for the narrowness of the definitions. Perhaps it’s more a question of learning what cuts/shapes/lengths suit one’s individual body best, outside the issue of ‘trying to look taller and slimmer’, as someone noted above. I know for sure that certain colors look terrible on me, and certain styles – sadly, I don’t yet know what looks best, and a trip to the mavens at Red Leopard is not likely anytime in my near (or even distant) future. Sigh…
That said, I have been inspired to get rid of many of the black shirts/sweaters I wear by default because a) I’m from New York, even though I reside in the very relaxed Pacific Northwest now, and b) it’s easy.The color drags my face down and ages me terribly. If only I knew what to replace it with!
There are many online DIY color analysis sites. Not anywhere as good as an in-person evaluation but definitely helpful.
Yes, thank you. I had my colors done decades ago with my mother (what a lovely memory, as a young professional it was a gift I gave her), and I was identified as a Spring. Which gives me some guidance. And I can clearly see which colors work better than others. The larger issue for me is finding the right silhouette, for lack of a better word, and making choices about how to pair things. And, of course, adapting to this middle-aged body, which means things that used to look good no longer do! But not complaining, as aging surely beats the alternative.
I too love black, although it love me less and less as time goes on. Try baby steps; dark brown, grey or navy are less harsh on our skin and go with most of your black pants, skirts & jackets.
Thank you. Baby steps is an excellent idea – in so many domains. Grey makes me look like a cadaver, dark brown not much better. But I keep forgetting that I ‘can’ wear navy with black – the all black, all the time aesthetic is so deeply ingrained!
If you are a Spring, then almost all of the really dark neutrals aren’t going to do you any favors. There are darker versions of colors that are good for you (I don’t know which you’d like, but I know I personally have a lot of shades of green I rarely wear as a Summer). I’d suggest doing what they told me at the time when I got my colors done, which is finding the shade/color that matches your hair, your skin, and your eyes. Start there. 🙂
Mary, I agree. I wasn’t sure what was bothering me about the wording, but you’ve nailed it. They sound almost like Barbie dolls. Although, I do think some of the descriptors are helpful in terms of nailing one’s style.
Mary, I’m reading a book called The Curated Closet by Anuschka Rees. This is what she says about style: “Be authentic: Forget conventional style typologies like “classic” or “bohemian” and create your own unique look. True personal style is always custom-made… It’s impossible to describe your style in a few words.” I think beginning the quest with knowledge of style categories helps those who need a starting point.
I love that book! I totally agree with you and I don’t have a real issue with trying to figure out one’s style by looking at categories, many books about style take that approach and it’s helpful. I take issue with the terminology used here. It seems dated and sexist. Just my opinion! Not intended as any type of personal criticism.
I agree that putting a personal spin on our style is essential. I look at the style personalities as starting points, and a way to be able to quantify why certain styles feel right or don’t. I’m an analytical learner though, whereas some people are more intuitive/visual. We all need to use what works for us and disregard the rest.
The terminology we use is not an exact science in the same way that a colour consultation is. We use these words to describe a certain look or clothing personality which is the Style of clothing for each individual. One can of course be a mix of two and sometimes more. They are guidelines to help one visualise what it means to be a Gamine , Classic, Princess etc. The Starlet is a sort of young romantic or a curvy princess.
I love this post! I am very interested in your color experience and hope to one day go to the Red Leopard myself! I think I’m a mix of Romantic/Classic. I am for sure curvy but also tall and look best in structured clothes but I can pull off longer length sweaters.
Susan, I just love your deep dive into your style personality. It truly can be freeing to get information like this. Education and input are so valuable. I find from working with my personal style and wardrobe clients that with style insight they suddenly realize why certain things in their closet just don’t work for them. Or they understand why they wore something to death. And it makes shopping so much easier. I like what you said about these being tools, not rules. Yes, yes, yes! Thanks so much for sharing your style journey. It’s so inspiring! I have to end with how much I LOVED reading how it’s not about losing weight; it’s about understanding your body and style just as it is. A great message for every woman!
Loved this post! Also, have enjoyed the replies. Lots of discussion as to the various style profiles. I always learn something new or confirmation of ideas. Would like to someday do the Red Leopard thing because it seems more in-depth than some of the similar processes. Thank you Susan, and everyone for sharing!
Susan, after your Red Leopard visit I wax inspired to make my own. I’m a romantic/classic which somewhat was surprising to me, but not to others who know me. Much of it was confirmation of styles good or bad, that I’d figured out on my own. I believe I have validation & a bit of a blueprint going forward & look forward to the next steps of my own style journey, as well as following along for yours.
Susan, after your Red Leopard visit I was inspired to make my own. It was a blast. I’m a romantic/classic which was somewhat surprising to me, but not to others who know me. Much of it was confirmation of styles good & bad that I’d figured out on my own. I believe I now have validation & a bit of a blueprint going forward. I’m really looking forward to the next steps of my own style journey, as well as following along for yours.
My Style Personality Profile isn’t on the list.
Greetje
I have followed you for years. 🙂 I think you’re a combination. You definitely wear brights, and that’s something I rarely do anymore. I know I personally would be a combination of classic/sporty (which is a really easy blend of categories to slip into, since most clothes are classified as ‘sports clothes.). But you’re definitely ‘quirky’ in a good way, and colorful, but you wear mostly classic, traditional lines. Nothing too frou-frou for you. I think if you look at your blog the way your viewers do, you’ll see a trend of shapes, styles, and color. Few neutrals.
Huntswoman/Natural Classic seems closest for me except for the word “sporty”. I’d rather replace that with some sort of smart casual expression though a single word eludes me. The term classic reminds me so much of styles predating the 60’s – twinset and pearls – and today’s lifestyles appear to be much more relaxed and informal. My wardrobe since retirement now has no dress up clothes and I’m not missing them one bit. I guess my emphasis is much more on getting the colours right rather than a style mantra.
It’s your newly exposed flattering colours that resonate with me as they light up your face and suit you beautifully.
Thanks Susan for all your work in trying to help us understand the style “types.” I may not be alone in appreciating your use of the personalities as examples. Some of us need a visual reference, as in using maps rather than directions.
Thanks also for the comment from Brenda Kinsel.
Thank you for today’s post about Modern Gamine. I appreciate that you explained it so well. I, too, relate closest to that style but I am “of a certain age…” so have not been comfortable with a lot of looks I’ve seen referenced. Your explanation of all of the styles was very helpful, too. Again, thank you for taking the time and effort.
I’m having some trouble making a meaningful distinction between the Gypsy and the Bohemian. Would love to hear from anyone who can clearly differentiate the two types. Thanks!
Hi Gilad, the way I understand it, Gypsy is more dramatic/flamboyant and Bohemian is more earthy, but I’ll see if I can get the Red Leopard team to chime in.
The terminology we use is not an exact science in the same way that a colour consultation is. We use these words to describe a certain look or clothing personality which is the Style of clothing for each individual. One can of course be a mix of two and sometimes more. They are guidelines to help one visualise what it means to be a Gamine , Classic, Princess etc. The Starlet is a sort of young romantic or a curvy princess.
The Gypsy needs more structure and drama whereas the Bohemian is a softer more natural look.
Thank you, Greetje – my style isn’t on the list either:-)
Susan it’s been so interesting to watch you go through your style analysis and color palette analysis! I tried adding some color (some accurate matches and some ‘in the right family’ but probably too dark and find myself feeling out of my comfort zone! My trip to NY will find me wearing mostly navy, black and gray with only a little color thrown in. One thing that REALLY helped me is you coming to terms with a different silhouette and breaking through ‘myths’ about your body and how you should wear clothes. In particular I’m thinking about tops: I’m short waisted and now that I’m almost 73 I have a bit of a belly. Over the last 2 years in particular I’ve been buying larger tops in order to conceal my belly when in fact I should have tried petite tops with fabric that’s more structured. But the biggest revelation is that I could go ahead and wear tops that are a bit more fitted and not too long. Thank you for sharing all this valuable information!
Susan,
After so many years wearing the long over lean style, something must have drawn you to it. Why was it your go-to look for so long? Do you miss it? Are there elements you are going to keep? Just curious.
Hi Lyn, yes, I still love the ease and drama of it. And yes, I’ll still include it, just not exclusively, and with slight modifications. A little more structure, a little less volume, for example.
The quirky side of gamine would certainly seem to allow for occasional dramatic flair.
I think I’m a mix of huntswoman and adventurer with relaxed tech company and work from home wardrobe now (no PJs and bunny slippers!) At one time I’d say classic when working on the edge of the finance world. Off to check out the curated closet.
I suspect I am a Huntswoman with Gamine feet (I can really rock the loafers, even though I frankly can’t stand the looks of them) and a Musketeer soul (Helena Bonham Carter is my spirit animal).
I look best if there is a bit of edge in some aspect of what I’m wearing; usually an accessory, but I do love a slightly period-looking or in some other way slightly dramatic/costumey jacket. (Rather like your navy jacket….so maybe that’s also a gamine thing?)
This is not just my preference speaking, I had it confirmed in a fairly dramatic way at a Chanel boutique in Paris. I went in to buy my very fist luxury bag, and was intent on the classic double flap, but the Boy caught my eye. The sales associates all agreed instantly that the Boy was so much better for me. I turned that iconic double flap right into Granny’s Best Bag when I put it on. One of the young men even said that although grandmere’s sac was not for me, my grand-pere’s shoes were fabulous! (I had on my trusty SAS Herman Munster-esque travelling shoes)
My style muse is Lauren Hutton, so of course the Adventurer/ Natural category best suits my lifestyle and personal taste. I do believe that most women have an innate sense of their personal style based on the garments that they reach for the most. My most beloved and worn pieces are a white tee, an olive utility jacket, a faded chambray shirt, and a great fitting pair of jeans.
Thank you for the guideline! I am trying to create my capsule closet based on your description! Tailoring is currently the only solution for me, but my local tailor is leaving the town this year. Friends do recommend online services like Dressarte Paris, Olivia Stewart, Laceandchic. If you could advice smth on that, or any petite brands I’d highly appreciate. Thanks