Don’t Know Your Face Shape? Here’s How to Find Sunglasses
Are you tired of those confusing “face shape” guides that leave you more puzzled than when you started? You know the ones—they ask you to decide if your face is a “heart,” “oval,” or “triangle” shape, but your face never seems to fit neatly into any of those categories.
The truth is, the traditional face shape method is fundamentally flawed. It’s subjective, inconsistent, and frankly, not very scientific. But don’t worry—we’ve developed a new, simpler 3-step system that takes the guesswork out of finding your perfect pair of sunglasses.
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Step 1: Master Your Face Width
When it comes to sunglasses, proportion is everything. The width of your frames should complement the width of your face—not too narrow, not too wide. The most important measurement is your temple-to-temple width (the distance across your face from temple to temple).
Here’s a simple chart to guide you:
| Your Face Width | Recommended Frame Width (in mm) |
| Narrow Face (under 135mm) | 125-135mm |
| Average Face (135-145mm) | 135-145mm |
| Wide Face (over 145mm) | 145-155mm |
The frame width is typically listed in the product details and includes the width of both lenses plus the bridge that goes over your nose.
Example for Narrow Faces: Marc Jacobs MARC 496/S Sunglasses are a perfect choice for those with slimmer faces. These sleek vintage style frames that won’t overwhelm smaller facial features, while the polarized lenses provide excellent UV protection. The subtle cat-eye shape adds a touch of elegance without being too dramatic. Check Price: Amazon.com
Example for Average-to-Wide Faces: Gucci Women’s Lightness Square Sunglasses offer a comfortable frame width that sits perfectly on broader faces. These frames feature a sporty yet sophisticated design with polarized lenses that reduce glare and enhance visual clarity. The durable frame frame material ensures they’ll withstand daily wear while remaining lightweight. Check Price: Amazon.com
Step 2: Balance Your Face Length
Just as important as width is the height of your sunglasses lenses. The key here is balance—taller lenses complement longer faces, while shorter lenses work better with shorter faces.
| Your Face Type | Recommended Lens Height (in mm) |
| Short Face | 35-40mm |
| Average Face | 40-46mm |
| Long Face | 46mm+ |
Example for Shorter Faces: The GUVIVI Retro Oval Sunglasses feature a modest 31mm lens height that perfectly complements shorter faces. These vintage-inspired frames offer a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with 100% UV protection lens. The slim profile won’t overwhelm your features, creating a balanced, proportional look that enhances rather than dominates your face. Check Price: Amazon.com
Example for Longer Faces: The SOJOS Large Frame Sunnies boast an impressive 55mm lens height, making them ideal for those with longer faces. These oversized frames provide excellent sun coverage while creating visual balance for elongated facial features. The classic retro style offers timeless appeal, while the polarized lenses ensure superior glare reduction and visual clarity. Check Price: Amazon.com
Step 3: Complement Your Features
The final step in our system is all about the “rule of opposites.” This principle is simple but powerful: curvy features look best with angular frames, and angular features look best with curvy frames. This creates a pleasing visual contrast that enhances your natural features.
For Curvy/Softer Features:
If your face has softer, more rounded features (curved cheeks, rounded chin, soft jawline), angular frames will add definition and structure.
Example 1: The Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses are the quintessential angular frame, featuring the iconic squared-off shape that has defined cool for generations. The distinctive geometric silhouette adds structure and definition to softer facial features, while the high-quality polarized lenses provide superior clarity and protection. These timeless classics work with virtually any outfit, from casual to formal. Check Price: Amazon.com
Example 2: The Ray-Ban RB4165 Justin Rectangular Sunglasses offer a modern take on angular frames with their sleek, architectural design. The clean lines and sharp corners create beautiful contrast against softer facial features, while the handmade zyl acetate construction ensures durability and comfort. These sophisticated frames add an instant touch of structure and definition to rounder face types. Check Price: Amazon.com
For Angular/Sharper Features:
If your face has more defined, angular features (prominent cheekbones, strong jawline, defined chin), curvy frames will soften and complement your natural structure.
Example 1: The Ray-Ban Rb3447 Round Metal Sunglasses feature a beautifully curved silhouette that softens sharper facial features. The gentle round shape creates harmony with angular face structures, while the polarized lenses ensure excellent visual clarity and UV protection. The lightweight frame design offers all-day comfort without sacrificing style. Check Price: Amazon.com
Example 2: The Versace Womens Sunglasses Metal give balance and proportions to the face, the frame shape should be in contrast with the face shape. This Phantos model looks best on Oval-Heart-Square-Round faces. The rounded lenses and smooth lines create a perfect counterbalance to angular facial features, while the distinctive double crossbar adds a touch of sophistication. These versatile frames transition effortlessly from casual daytime wear to evening outings. Check Price: Amazon.com
Putting It All Together: Your 3-Step Cheat Sheet
Finding your perfect sunglasses doesn’t have to be complicated. Just remember these three simple steps:
•Step 1: Match your frame width to your face width (narrow, average, or wide)
•Step 2: Balance your face length with appropriate lens height (short, average, or long)
•Step 3: Follow the rule of opposites (angular frames for curvy features, curvy frames for angular features)
The Perfect Fit Awaits
Forget everything you thought you knew about choosing sunglasses based on arbitrary “face shapes.” Our measurement-based 3-step system takes the guesswork out of finding frames that truly complement your unique features.
By focusing on concrete measurements and proportions rather than subjective shape categories, you’ll be able to shop for sunglasses with confidence, whether in-store or online. And remember, the perfect sunglasses aren’t just about looking good—they’re about feeling good in your own skin.