How to choose a frame based on the shape of your face
How many times have you tried on glasses you loved on the display and, when looking in the mirror, weren't quite convinced? It's not a question of luck: there is logic behind which frame flatters each face. At Òptica Florit we've spent more than 100 years helping our customers find the glasses that suit them best, and today we're sharing the same advice we give in store.
First things first: what is the shape of your face?
Before choosing a frame, identify the shape of your face. The most common ones are these six:
A simple trick: tie your hair back, look at yourself straight in the mirror and mentally trace the outline of your face. Which of the shapes above does it match best?
Which frame suits each face shape
Oval face: almost everything suits you
The oval face is the most versatile. Its balanced proportions let it carry pretty much any type of frame: square, round, cat eye, aviator and so on. The only recommendation is to avoid overly large frames that hide your facial features.
What works for you: square, rectangular, round, cat-eye and aviator frames.
Round face: lengthen and slim down
The goal is to add angles and create a sense of greater length in the face. Angular, rectangular frames are your best allies. Avoid round or small frames, which only reinforce the roundness of the face.
What works for you: rectangular, square, cat-eye and butterfly frames.
What to avoid: round, oval or overly small frames.
Square face: soften the angles
Here we're after the opposite effect: softening the jawline and the strong angles. Rounded frames or frames with slightly curved corners balance this face shape very well.
What works for you: round, oval, cat-eye and aviator frames.
What to avoid: very square or rectangular frames.
Rectangular or oblong face: add width
The goal is to make the face look wider and shorter. Large frames with a low bridge and wide lenses achieve this effect. Aviator and butterfly styles are ideal.
What works for you: large, wide frames with a low bridge, aviators and butterfly shapes.
What to avoid: small or very narrow frames, which only make the face look even longer.
Triangular or heart-shaped face: balance the forehead
With a wide forehead and a narrow chin, the goal is to balance the upper part of the face with the lower one. Rimless or semi-rimless frames have little visual weight at the top and balance the look perfectly.
What works for you: rimless or semi-rimless frames with a low base, round or oval shapes.
What to avoid: cat-eye frames or very wide tops that emphasise the forehead.
Diamond face: bring out the cheekbones
The diamond-shaped face has prominent cheekbones and a narrow forehead and chin. Cat-eye frames, with the angle pointing upwards, add fullness at the top and balance the look.
What works for you: cat-eye, rimless and oval frames with a detailed top section.
What to avoid: frames that emphasise the cheekbone area.
More factors to keep in mind
The shape of your face matters, but it isn't the only factor. Our opticians also take into account:
- Skin tone: warm tones pair well with frames in browns, golds and beiges; cool tones look better with blacks, greys, blues and silvers.
- Eye and hair colour: a frame that either contrasts with or complements your natural colour always adds up.
- Lifestyle: a frame for working all day in front of a computer isn't the same as one for leisure or sport.
- Prescription: strong prescriptions affect the thickness of the lens, which can influence frame choice. Your optician will advise you on this.
The best way to choose: come and try them on
No article or augmented reality app can replace the moment of trying glasses on in person. The perfect frame is the one that makes you feel good when you put it on, and that can only really be discovered in front of the mirror.
At Òptica Florit, in the Eixample in Barcelona, we'll help you find that frame. Our team of opticians will take all the time you need, without rushing, so you leave with the glasses that truly suit you and fit your life.