A great pair of glasses does more than correct vision. The perfect-looking pair of frames isn’t just about colour and style, it is also about the perfect fit.

Matching your chosen pair of glasses to your face shape will ensure that you will look and feel your best.

Every face is unique and beautiful in its own way. And, as unique as we all are designers and stylists have determined that there are six basic face shapes which they use to develop frame styles that flatter and enhance the wearer’s features.

The six main face shapes

1. Round

Round face shapes are as wide as they are high, and usually the cheekbones are the most prominent feature.

Usually, strong, angular-shaped frames are suggested for round faces. Angular frames tend to add definition to the round face.

2. Square

Square faces have equal dimensions between the forehead, cheekbone and jaw.

Frames that are softer and rounder are usually recommended for square-shaped faces.

3. Oval

The oval face shape is a combination of square and round. It is longer than it is wide. In an oval face, the forehead may be more pronounced than the jaw. Overall, the features of an oval face are balanced and symmetrical.

Almost any type of frame will work with an oval face shape, although larger frames can disrupt the face’s natural symmetry.

4. Diamond

Diamond face shapes typically have high and strong cheekbones and narrow, pointed chins.

Frames that emphasise the strong cheekbones are usually the most appropriate.

5. Triangle

The primary characteristics of a triangular face are the narrow jaw and high cheekbones.

Round, cat-eye and aviator styles all work well with triangle-shaped faces.

6. Heart-shaped

Heart face shapes have a pronounced forehead and narrow, pointed chin or jawline. Usually, thin, light-metal frames work best with heart-shaped faces.

The general rule of thumb is: frames that are opposite to your face shape tend to complement it. In other words, if your face is round, angular frames tend to balance your features. Those with angular faces (diamond or square) might want a round frame that adds softness or balance.

It is important to note that these are only guidelines for how to choose . Nobody’s face is a perfect square or oval, and many faces are a combination of shapes.

Complexion

Obviously, complexion doesn’t matter for the shape of your frames, but it does impact the colour of the frames you should select.

In general, the same rule of thumb applies – opposites complement. If you have a lighter complexion, darker frames are a good idea. If you have a darker complexion, lighter frames are a good choice.

Things change

When we’re younger, our faces are often contoured and defined. As we age, however, our face type changes. The fat, muscle and skin on your face gradually changes over time as we mature. In general, younger people tend to have triangular-shaped faces and older people tend to have more rectangular-shaped faces.

Be yourself

At the end of the day, rules are meant to be broken. If you’re feeling adventurous or creative or are selecting frames that make a statement, go for it. Choose the frames that you like best, regardless of what shape your face is.

Benefits of an in-person visit to us at Eyecare Plus Ashgrove

When choosing glasses for your face shape, there really is no substitute for an in-person visit to us at Eyecare Plus Ashgrove.

Although apps can help you find frames that flatter your face or bring out your best features, they can ultimately recommend glasses that fail at their most important function: properly correcting your vision.

Once your prescription is determined, it is important to have a trained eye care professional to consult with as you go through the process of selecting and fitting your frames.

We know how your prescription strength and weight of your lenses work; the roles your hair colour and complexion play in your choice and they know how the frame material and design will represent the look you’re after.

Our optometrists, optical dispensers and assistants have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you find the glasses that fit properly and work with your prescription to provide you the best vision possible.