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