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How to Pick Glasses for Your Face Shape

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Choosing a new pair of glasses can feel like a big decision. With so many styles, colours, and shapes available, you might wonder where to even begin. You want frames that not only help you see clearly but also express your personality and look great.

The key to finding glasses you love is to choose frames that balance and complement your unique face shape. By understanding your facial features, you can browse through a wide selection of glasses and sunglasses with more confidence and find a pair that feels like it was made just for you.

First, Know Your Face Shape

Before you start your search, it helps to know your face shape. You can look in a mirror and trace the outline of your face to see which of the common shapes below matches yours most closely.

The 5 Main Face Shapes

  • Round: You have soft, curved lines with a face width and length that are about equal.
  • Square: You have a strong jawline, a broad forehead, and cheekbones. Your face is about as wide as it is long.
  • Oval: Your face is longer than it is wide, with a chin that is slightly narrower than your forehead.
  • Heart-shaped: You have a wider forehead that tapers down to a narrower chin.
  • Diamond: You have a narrower forehead and jawline with broad, prominent cheekbones.

Match Frame Shapes to Your Face

The general goal is to find frames that contrast with your facial features. This approach can create a pleasing balance between your glasses and your face, highlighting your natural attributes from a wide selection of frame styles.

Frames for Round Faces

If you have a round face, look for frames that add angles. Rectangular, square, and other geometric shapes can help create definition and balance your soft features.

Frames for Square Faces

You can soften strong features with frames that have gentle curves. Round and oval glasses work well to balance a defined jawline and add a softer touch to your look.

Frames for Oval Faces

Most frame shapes complement an oval face. You have the flexibility to experiment with bold styles, such as oversized or cat-eye frames, to express your personal style.

Frames for Heart-Shaped Faces

Select frames that are wider at the bottom to balance a broader forehead. Styles like aviators or frames with decorative details on the lower half are good options to explore.

Think About Colour and Material

Beyond shape, the colour and material of your frames play a big part in your final look. The right choice can highlight your eyes and complement your skin tone.

How to Pick a Flattering Frame Colour

Consider your skin’s undertones. If you have warm undertones, frames in gold, honey, or olive green may look great. Cool undertones are often complemented by silver, blue, or grey frames.

Choose Your Material

Frames come in various materials, each offering a different look. Thin metal frames give you a minimalist style, while thicker acetate frames provide a bold, classic appearance.

A smiling individual wearing oversized, round metal-rimmed eyeglasses while posing outdoors.

A Professional Fit Can Make All the Difference

The most stylish frames will not feel right if they do not fit properly. A professional can help you find a pair that is both fashionable and comfortable for all-day wear.

Why Frame Size Matters

Your frames should be in proportion to your face—not too wide or too narrow. The top of your frames should typically sit just below your brow line for a balanced look.

  • The bridge of the glasses should sit comfortably on your nose without pinching or slipping.
  • The arms—or temples—should extend straight back and only touch your head just before your ears.
  • Your pupils should appear near the centre of the lenses.

Get Advice from an Optometrist in Burlington, ON

An optometry team has the knowledge to help you find glasses that fit your face shape, prescription, and lifestyle. An optical team in Burlington, ON, can provide a personalized fitting during your comprehensive eye exam to help you find frames and lenses that suit your needs and lifestyle.

Choosing new glasses should be an exciting experience. By considering your face shape, frame style, and the importance of a professional fit, you can find a pair you’ll be happy to wear every day.

If you need guidance in selecting your next pair of glasses, our team at Upper Appleby Eyecare is here to support you. Schedule an appointment for a personalized consultation and fitting.

Written by Upper Appleby Eye Care

Our team focuses on your overall eye health, not just your prescription. We want to understand the full picture of your eyes, so we include time to discuss your health and concerns during your appointment.

We’re proud to serve the Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Hamilton, and Milton areas of Southern Ontario. We are accepting new patients, so book your eye exam today!

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