How to choose the right frame for your face shape? Part 1
Which type of frame goes better with my face?
Glass-wearers must have asked themselves this question each time they change their glasses. I know I have asked this each time I am getting new glasses.
How to know what is the shape of your face? Is it round, oblong, oval, diamond, square or heart-shaped?
- Take a photo of yourself directly facing the camera and use a piece of tracing paper to outline the edge of your face to work out your face shape.
- No camera? Then look in the mirror and with an erasable pen (or even some lipstick), trace the outline of your face on the mirror – whatever you do, just make sure you can wipe it off afterwards!
Round face
Characteristics:
- Full cheeks
- Rounded chin
- Wide forehead
- Equal length and width
What to look for in a frame:
- Strong angular frame which will make your face appear thinner and longer
- Wider than taller lenses
- Frames that have a slight upsweep at the corners to show off those great cheeks and brings focus to the eyes
- Nosepads to keep off cheeks
- A heavier upper rim and a lighter lower rim on the frames
Oblong face
Characteristics:
- Longer than it is wide
- Long straight cheek line
- Sometimes a longish nose
- May have a pointy chin
What to look for in a frame:
- Frames that have more depth than width
- Decorative or contrasting temples to add width to the face
- Low bridge to shorten the nose
- Aviator shape frames
- Square shape frames also will work
Oval face
Characteristics:
- Balanced features
- High cheekbones
- Chin narrower than forehead
What to look for in a frame:
- Lucky you! Nearly any frame shape will go with your face as long as you maintain the natural balance in your face
- Frames that are as wide as (or wider than) the broadest part of the face
- Walnut-shaped frames that are not too deep or too narrow
- Bold shapes such as the cat’s eyes shape which draws attention to the eyes
- Standout by playing with the colour and texture of the frames