How can you find the ideal sunglasses for your face shape? Start by looking in the mirror to determine your face shape. Then use our guide to choose the shades that suit your style.
How the right sunglasses make an impression
Imagine Audrey Hepburn wearing her iconic tortoise shell sunglasses. Or do you recall Tom Cruise rocking aviator sunglasses? Let’s not forget Matthew Broderick’s trend-setting sunglasses.
Sometimes, nothing makes a bolder statement than a pair of sunglasses. But, not just any pair of shades, the ideal pair of shades. And, that optimal pair isn’t only about style; it’s also about the fit on your face.
Discovering your true face shape can help you pick the right sunglasses to complement your facial bone structure.
READ MORE: Sunglasses Diagram
Square face shape
The width of the cheekbones on a square face shape is typically equal to the length between the forehead and jaw. This face type is often quite angular, so picking the ideal pair of sunglasses can help create a more balanced look.
Frames to consider
Aviator sunglasses were worn by Tom Cruise and Sylvester Stallone. Colorful, classic round, vintage round and oval styles can also flatter the length and width proportions of the facial structure.
Sunglasses that accentuate the eye and cheekbone area with a strong browline or rimless edge may also be options to consider.
Round face shape
A round face is generally proportional in width and length. The dimensions between the forehead, cheekbones and jaw are often very similar and feature a rounded structure. The cheeks are typically full and tend to curve outward instead of toward the ears.
Frames to consider
A round face shape can wear a variety of sunglass styles. A semi-rimless pair, such as those worn by Matthew Broderick, can often complement a round face shape.
Frame styles to consider might include angular or rectangular frames in eccentric designs and bold colors. Full-rim, semi-rimless and clear nose-bridge sunglasses with sharp lines may also give the eyes a wider appearance and possibly add definition to the rounded cheek area.
Oval face shape
The length of an oval face shape is longer than its width, often featuring a defined forehead, widely spaced cheekbones, a round jawline and a narrow chin. There is a unique balance to the oval face that makes it ideal for a wide range of sunglass styles and shapes.
Frames to consider
Angular, aviator and oval sunglasses can be an ideal choice for an oval face structure. Think Diane Keaton’s iconic oversized, two-toned pair. Retro square sunglasses and oversized frames that are wide around the eyes can complement an oval face without drawing attention to a narrower forehead and chin.
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Heart face shape
The heart face shape typically has a prominent forehead and high cheekbones that taper down to a narrow jawline. The deal sunglasses for a heart-shaped face maintain midface balance without drawing too much attention to the upper and lower portions of this face structure.
Frames to consider
A heart-shaped face can pair well with geometric and round-framed sunglasses. Think light rimless frames like the ones Keanu Reeves wore. Cat-eye frames in shiny opaque colors or blocky, retro square frames can also be ideal for a heart face shape.
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Diamond face shape
The diamond face shape generally resembles a diamond shape. This face structure typically features a narrow forehead, prominent cheekbones and a modest chin that can sometimes be pointy. Sunglasses that broaden the middle and upper portion of this face shape are often flattering.
Frames to consider
Someone with a diamond face shape may want to look for sunglasses that have soft angles, such as two-tone rims that draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones. These sunglasses can emphasize the browline and may include distinctive shapes, unique lens colors and design accents.
Think of the ones Meryl Streep wore. Cat-eye, oval and rectangular sunglasses can also complement this face shape.
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Oblong face shape
An oblong, or long, face shape is usually longer than it is wide. It typically has defined cheekbones with a higher forehead and narrow jawline. A variety of sunglass styles and shapes can complement this facial structure.
Frames to consider
An oblong face shape can benefit from frame styles that help balance its length. This can include shades with sharp angles, geometric shapes, deep lenses and bold lines.
Cat-eye frames, like the ones Susan Sarandon wore, or square sunglasses can be ideal because they can help minimize the length of the face and sharpen softer features.
The ideal pair of sunglasses can be a fashion staple. Understanding your face structure can help ensure your sunglasses make a statement.
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