One of the greatest challenges when buying glasses is establishing exactly which shape and style are best suited to your face shape. In this regard, not all frame shapes were created equal. Whilst wayfarers are famously compatible with almost all face shapes; certain frames such as cat eye or round glasses are notoriously harder to wear.
Glasses are an intensely personal purchase, as they are the only accessory that serves both a necessary function, and an opportunity to express yourself. As you will be using them on a daily basis, it is worth taking time to understand which the best frames are for you both in fit and fashion. It’s advisable that before you start to look for your most compatible frame, you take time to understand your face shape. Use this handy guide to figure out which shape is yours, and you’ll be much better placed to make any serious frame based decisions.
Heart-Shaped Faces
The hallmarks of a heart-shaped face is a wide forehead with high cheekbones, coupled with a narrower jaw; creating the classic heart shape. Wraparounds actually look surprisingly good on this face shape, as they are notoriously difficult shape to wear well. Aviator frames are also a solid choice.
This Polaroid model not only comes in the classic aviator style, with its wire rim and oversized lenses, but the polarized mirror frames give it a contemporary twist and take it straight from the 80’s to the here and now.
Perfectly designed for sport and recreational activities, these streamlined Oakley’s will not only help you win gold, but ensure you look great whilst doing it.
Square Shaped Faces
Well defined features with a wide forehead and a strong jaw and cheekbones is traditionally seen as a square shaped face. If this is you then thinner, round shaped frames will suit you best. Classic aviators are especially flattering, as the curves in the thin wire frames help to soften your more angular features.
The thin tortoise colored frames contrast well with the green lenses in this model. With the classic Persol arrow on the temples, these glasses do all the work for you.
These Quay Australia aviators are an affordable and fashionable alternative to more expensive brands. The thin black frames are strong and durable, and the gradient lenses provide a striking effect.
Round Shaped Faces
A round face shape, with fuller cheeks and a rounder chin, look great in butterfly and wayfarer frames. The strong shape of the glasses serves to elongate and define your naturally softer features.
The large squarer shaped lenses in the Tom Ford frames are a perfect example of a flattering shape for an oval face. The three colors serve to clearly define each part of the frame and draw attention to the sharp angles. They will elongate a rounder face.
These less conventional frames, with their slightly elongated tips work to elongate the brow and reduce the more rounded look of your face. The gold detail on the temple of this model serves to add a touch of flair to a more conservative style.
Oval Shaped Faces
An oval shaped face is defined as one that has balanced features and high cheekbones. Your chin will be slightly narrower than your forehead and your features aren’t overly angular. Many people consider this the ‘shape of all shapes’, as in terms of frame shapes it is one of the most versatile.
As someone with an oval shaped face you will be able to wear almost any shaped frames and look fabulous. However, we would suggest staying away from oversized frames as they may swamp your features.
These Madonna frames are a perfect example for a flattering shape for this face. Contemporary and sleek these will be your go to frames all season.
Round, full rimmed frames with coloured lenses are an up to the minute fashion statement that will flatter your oval face in any outfit.
This article originally appeared on New Idea.
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