Eye Health Central

Which sunglasses will suit my face shape?

How to choose sunglasses based on your face shape

When it comes to fashion and style, sunglasses are one of the most expressive accessories you can buy. They are not only essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they can also be a real fashion statement. Choosing the right sunglasses that balance out your face shape can highlight certain features of yours and add to your overall aesthetics. However, sifting through the endless amount of options can be a painstaking process. Find out how you can select the perfect pair of sunglasses for your face shape.


Sunglasses for Heart-Shaped Faces

If you have a heart-shaped face you usually have a broader forehead, high cheekbones and a narrow chin. The goal here is to balance these features by choosing sunglasses that are wider at the top than they are at the bottom. Aviators, wayfarers or cat-eye frames are excellent choices for you as they add width to the lower part of your face and soften your forehead.


Sunglasses for Oval-Shaped Faces

If you have an Oval face you have balanced features and a slightly rounded jaw. You are also very lucky to have this shape in terms of choosing sunglasses as most styles suit it. To maintain this natural balance, it's best you go for sunglasses that are as wide as the broadest part of your face. Aviators, wayfarers and oversized frames are perfect. Try to avoid frames that are too large and cover up more than half of your face as they can unfortunately throw off your proportions.


Sunglasses for Round-Shaped Faces

If you have a round face, it is as wide as it is long with no prominent angles. The aim here should be to elongate your face and add some angles. Go for sunglasses that are wider than your face, like rectangular or square frames. Wayfarers are also a great choice as they can make your face look longer and thinner.


best sunglasses for each face shape

Sunglasses for Square-Shaped Faces

If you have a square face you usually have a broad forehead, wide cheekbones and a strong jawline. To soften your angular features, go for round or oval sunglasses. Aviators or any frame style with soft lines or rimless edges also work well. Stay away from geometric and square frames as these can highlight your face's angles.


Sunglasses for Rectangle-Shaped Faces

If you have a rectangle or an oblong face it is longer than it is wide and you have a long, straight cheek line. To make your face look shorter and more balanced, go for oversized sunglasses or frames with distinct tops. Wayfarers and wrap styles can add width; square and round frames can add balance.


Sunglasses for Triangle-Shaped Faces

If you have a triangle-shaped face, it is widest at your jaw, narrowing up to your forehead. Sunglasses that can add width to your upper face are your best bet. Look for styles that are heavy on either colour or detailing or even both on the top half or go for cat-eye shapes. Avoid low-set temples or narrow frames as these normally draw attention to your jawline. 


Tips for Finding the Perfect Sunglasses

1. UV Protection: No matter the style the most important thing is that you need to make sure your sunglasses offer 100% UV protection.

2. Quality: Go for high-quality frames that are durable. Cheap frames won’t last you long and cheap metals can be harmful to your skin.

3. Comfort: Go for frames that are comfortable and well-fitted. They should rest perfectly on your nose and ears without pinching or rubbing.

4. Personal Style: Your sunglasses need to reflect your personality and make you feel confident. Sunglasses can be fun as well as practical

Finding the right sunglasses for your face shape comes down simply to two things: balancing your features whilst enhancing your best features. Don't be afraid to try on various styles as you never know which pair you will fall in love with. Happy searching! 


Author: John Dreyer Optometrist Bsc(Hons), MCOPTOM, DipCLP
Created: 7 Sep 2023, Last modified: 20 May 2024