Match Frames & Face Shape

Finding the perfect eyeglasses isn't just about choosing a style you like—it's about finding frames that complement your unique face shape. The right frames can enhance your best features, create balance, and express your personal style. This guide will help you identify your face shape and discover which frame styles will look best on you.

Face shape and frame style matching guide

How to Determine Your Face Shape

Before selecting frames, you need to identify your face shape. Here's a simple method to determine yours:

1. Pull your hair back and stand in front of a mirror.
2. Trace the outline of your face on the mirror with a washable marker, or take a photo and trace the outline digitally.
3. Measure the width of your forehead at its widest point.
4. Measure the width of your cheekbones at their widest point.
5. Measure the width of your jawline at its widest point.
6. Measure the length of your face from the center of your hairline to the bottom of your chin.
7. Compare these measurements and use the descriptions below to identify your face shape.

The Five Main Face Shapes

Understanding Frame Styles

Now that you know your face shape, let's explore different frame styles and which face shapes they complement:

Beyond Face Shape: Other Factors to Consider

Skin Tone

Your skin tone can influence which frame colors look best on you:

• Warm skin tones (yellow, peachy, or golden undertones) pair well with frames in gold, honey, beige, olive green, and tortoise.
• Cool skin tones (pink, red, or bluish undertones) complement frames in silver, black, gray, blue, and purple.
• Neutral skin tones can wear most colors, but may want to avoid extremely bright colors that could overwhelm.

Personal Style

While face shape guidelines are helpful, your personal style should also guide your choice:

• Classic/Professional: Consider rectangular, oval, or browline frames in neutral colors.
• Creative/Artistic: Try bold geometric shapes, cat-eye frames, or unique colors.
• Minimalist: Look for rimless or semi-rimless frames with clean lines.
• Vintage-inspired: Explore round frames, cat-eye styles, or classic wayfarers.

Lifestyle Needs

Consider how you'll use your glasses in daily life:

• Active lifestyle: Durable, flexible frames with secure temple arms.
• Office work: Consider blue light filtering lenses and comfortable, lightweight frames.
• Multiple pairs: Many people have different frames for different occasions—professional for work, stylish for social events, and durable for activities.

Tips for Trying On Frames

When shopping for new frames, keep these tips in mind:

• Bring a friend for an honest second opinion.
• Take photos of yourself wearing different frames to compare later.
• Try on at least 6-10 different styles, even ones you might not initially consider.
• Check that the frames sit properly on your nose and ears without pinching or sliding.
• Ensure your eyes are centered in the lenses both horizontally and vertically.
• Consider your prescription needs—very strong prescriptions may require certain frame types.

The Perfect Fit

Remember that while these guidelines are helpful, the most important factor is how the frames make you feel. The perfect frames should enhance your appearance, feel comfortable, and give you confidence. Don't be afraid to break the "rules" if you find frames that you love and that make you feel great!

At Arts of Optics, our optical experts can help you navigate these choices and find frames that perfectly complement your face shape, personal style, and lifestyle needs. We're here to ensure you look and feel your best in your new eyewear.