Picking a new pair of glasses is much easier if you know what kind of glasses go best with your face shape. Here are some guidelines to follow when looking for a new pair of glasses.
Most stores classify faces into four or five basic shapes: round, oval, square and triangular (or heart shaped). Here is a list of face types and some advice on what kinds of frames work with that face types. A good general rule of thumb is to look for glasses shapes that are the opposite of your face shape:
Round Face
Your face is a circle with soft curves with length and width in the same proportions. Full cheeks, Rounded chin, Equal length and width. A round face is easily identifiable from its circular appearance and the lack of strong lines and angles.
Look for frames that are: Rectangular, angular frames, strong details, wider than tall lenses, and nose pads to keep off cheeks. Avoid frames that exaggerate the roundness of the face. A good rule of thumb for people with round faces is to choose glasses that are wider than they are tall. By adding contrast, you can make a round face appear thinner and longer.
Square Face
Your face has wide brows, well defined cheekbones and prominent jaw lines define a square face, angular features, and wide forehead.
Look for frames that are: Circular, aviator, oval. Rounded or upswept shapes, Thinner frames, Neutral colours. Lengthen your face with frames that are wider than they are deep. Whether you are a man or woman, if your face is square, your most distinguishing feature is a prominent jawline. Many actors and models have a square face shape, because angular bone structure looks great in photos and on film. Also, you can also make a square face appear thinner and softer by selecting glasses in neutral colours (cream, beige, etc.) and choosing glasses that are wider than they are tall, as wider frames give the illusion of a slimmer face.
Oval or Oblong
Your face is a proportional oval with curves or longer than it is wide, with straight cheek lines. Balanced features, High cheekbones, Chin narrower than forehead
Look for: Any frame shape (aviator, oval, or square). Pick frames that are as wide as the widest part of your face to maintain balanced proportions. Bold shapes, Fun colors and textures, Size that maintains balance. Many people consider oval faces to be the ideal shape, because they have the most balanced proportions. People with oval faces should choose frames that are as wide or slightly wider than the broadest part of the face. Glasses with detailed embellishments also look great with the high cheek bones typically found on oval faces. You can choose a classic rectangular shape for a sophisticated, studious look, a retro cat-eye, or a trendy square or round frame.
Heart (or Triangular-shaped) Face
Wide forehead that descends to a narrow chin. Broad forehead, Pointed, narrow chin, High cheekbones
Look for: Geometric, Circular frames. Frames wider than forehead, Details on lower half, Light colours
How do you know what glasses will look best on a heart shaped face? Whether you are a man or woman, if your face is heart-shaped, your most distinguishing features are high cheekbones and a jawline that tapers to a defined chin. Your face resembles a heart in the sense that the widest part of the face is at the top and the narrowest part at is the bottom (also like an upside-down triangle.) People with heart-shaped faces have wide foreheads, high cheekbones, and narrow, pointed chins.
When choosing glasses for heart-shaped faces, the goal should be to minimize the width of the top of the face and to broaden the appearance of the chin. Look for frames that are wider than your forehead, or have prominent end points. You can also soften your look by choosing frames in light colors or with detailing like a tortoise or floral pattern. Heart shaped faces are quite versatile, so many distinctive styles will suit you.
When it comes time to buying new frames specsfair.com sells prescription glasses and sunglasses for men and women as well as kids glasses. Visit their website for more information. They also have a blog with tips and advice.
