Finding the perfect pair of eyeglasses can be as challenging as finding the right pair of jeans. You want something that complements your natural features, enhances your style, and feels comfortable. But did you know that picking eyeglass frames that match your face shape can make all the difference to your look?
While almost no one has a “perfect” face shape for prescribed categories, recognizing your general face shape can help you pick eyeglasses that complement your natural features. Ultimately, though, the eyeglasses or sunglasses you choose should be a way to bring out your personality and make you happy.
Why It Matters to Wear Eyeglasses That Match Your Face Shape
Wearing eyeglasses that suit your face shape can accentuate your best features. For example, if you have high cheekbones, the right frames can highlight them beautifully. Conversely, the wrong frames can overshadow your natural beauty.
Eyeglasses aren’t just vision aids; they’re also a personal fashion statement. Selecting the right frames ensures that your glasses complement your overall style. It shows that you pay attention to details, making you stand out in a crowd.
Moreover, eyeglasses that fit your face shape perfectly can boost your confidence. When you look good, you feel good.
How to Tell What Your Face Shape Is
Two standard methods of identifying face shape are the mirror test and a good old-fashioned measure and compare.
Stand before a mirror and pull your hair away from your face to perform the mirror test. Using a washable marker or lipstick, trace the outline of your face in the mirror. Step back and observe the shape you’ve drawn. This outline will give you a good idea of your face shape.
Otherwise, you can use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline. Also, measure the length of your face from your forehead to your chin. Compare these measurements to identify which is the widest and longest. This can help you determine your face shape more accurately.
The most common face shapes are:
- Oval
- Round
- Square
- Pear
- Diamond
- Triangle
- Heart
What Types of Eyeglasses Most Suit Different Face Shapes
Oval Faces
Oval faces have balanced proportions, with slightly wider cheekbones and a gentle narrowing at the forehead and jawline. This face shape is considered the most versatile for eyeglass frames. People with oval faces can wear almost any frame style. However, rectangular and walnut-shaped frames enhance the natural balance of an oval face. Aviators and cat-eye frames also look great.
Round Faces
Round faces have softer angles, with full cheeks and a rounded chin. The goal for round faces is to add angles and structure to balance their softness. Angular frames, such as rectangular and square shapes, work best for round faces. These frames add definition and structure, making your face appear longer and slimmer. Avoid circular frames, as they can make your face look rounder.
Square Faces
Square faces have solid jawlines and broad foreheads. The aim when choosing frames is to soften these strong, robust features. Round and oval frames are ideal for square faces. These shapes soften the angles and add balance. Rimless frames, which offer a lighter look, also work well.
Pear Faces
Pear-shaped faces have narrow foreheads and broader jawlines. The goal here is to balance the face by adding width to the upper part. Frames that emphasize the top of the face, like cat-eye and browline styles, are perfect for pear-shaped faces. These frames draw attention to the upper part of the face, balancing the broader jawline.
Diamond Faces
Diamond-shaped faces are narrow at the forehead and jawline, but have high, often dramatic cheekbones. The key for diamond faces is to highlight these cheekbones. Oval and rimless frames work well for this purpose. Cat-eye frames also complement a diamond shape by emphasizing the cheekbones while softening the overall look.
Heart Faces
Heart-shaped faces have wider foreheads and narrower chins. Ideal frames in this case often look to soften the forehead and draw attention to the lower part of the face. Oval and round frames tend to work best at this. These styles soften the forehead and bring balance. Avoid oversized frames, as they can overwhelm the face.
Eyeglasses That Look Good on All Face Shapes
While finding a pair of eyeglasses that suit your specific face shape can help highlight your features, certain styles and aesthetics are universally flattering— which is helpful if you’re a busy person or trying to help a friend or partner who doesn’t care to elevate their style.
Rimless and thin metal frames are universally flattering and suitable for any face shape. Their minimalist designs ensure they don’t overpower your natural features. Aviators, wayfarers, and rectangular styles work well with these frames. Paired with neutral colours like black, brown, and tortoiseshell, these frames are versatile and can complement any face shape and skin tone.
West Coast Optical believes that just because prescription glasses are practical doesn’t mean they can’t look great! Contact us today to see how our experienced team can help you pick a frame that complements your face shape.
