The right frames for your face (Part 1)

how to choose the right frame for your face

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

glasses that fit round faces

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

glasses that fit oblong faces

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

glasses that fit oval faces