Which face shape looks best in wrap-around sunglasses?

Wrap-around sunglasses look great on almost every face shape.

Wrap-around sunglasses come in varying shapes and color options with two primary styles: one large lens that covers the entire eye area or two separate lenses, both of which “wrap around” to shield the temples and peripheral vision. Shield sunglasses are one of the more popular examples of a wrap-around style. 

But which face shape looks best in wrap-around sunglasses? 

Let’s review how to determine each face shape (See our infographic: What is my face shape?) and what to look for (and avoid) when shopping for the perfect pair of wrap-around sunglasses for your unique features: 

Are shield sunglasses right for a diamond-shaped face?

Diamond-shaped faces are narrow at the forehead and jawline, with broad cheekbones and a pointed chin. Simply put, if your face is widest in the middle, you have a diamond face shape.

The cheeks are the widest part of this rare face shape, and wrap-around shades do wonders to accentuate these features. 

When shopping for wrap-around styles for diamond-shaped faces, keep an eye out for sunglasses with gentle curves and/or distinctive brow lines. Rimless shields are also a good option for highlighting the eyes and high cheekbones.

People with a diamond face shape may want to stay away from shades that are wider than the cheekbones, as they can feel uncomfortable and overwhelm the face. 

Go with oversized frames for an oblong face

You probably have an oblong face shape if the measurements of your jawline, cheeks and forehead are very similar or the bottom half of your face is longer than the top. 

Oblong faces, also commonly called rectangular, tend to be long and narrow with soft features, making oversized and wrapped shades with decorative temples a great option. 

Wrap-around sunglasses not only will offer more protection for your eyes and skin but will perfectly complement your unique features and face shape. 

Wrap-around shades with sharp angles and bold lines add an edge to softer facial features. Bold and decorative or contrasting temples also can add a little width to a narrow face. 

Oval face shape? Wrap-arounds yes, shields no

Oval face shapes are longer with broadly spaced cheekbones and a softly-curved jawline. The forehead may also be wider than the chin. 

If you have an oval face, congratulations! Due to your balanced proportions, you’ll be able to wear just about any style you like, including wrap-around shades. 

Take advantage of this favorable face shape and don’t be afraid to experiment, and maybe consider adding some colorful lenses or polarization to your new wrap-around sunnies. 

However, you may want to avoid shield sunglasses, which may overwhelm any smaller features or extend beyond the width of your face.  

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Round face: Angular shields are flattering

A round face is marked by fuller cheeks, a wide forehead and less refined angles. In most cases, a round face shape will also have a softer jawline. 

When it comes to finding the perfect wrap-around shades to suit this youthful facial shape, look for angular shields, which will flatter the curves of your face. Sunglasses that sit a little high on the temple also can help elongate the face. 

Just make sure your sunglasses aren’t too small. Small-size sunglass lenses provide less than adequate coverage, and they won’t look as good on your round face. 

Soften up your square face with rimless shields

Square-shaped faces have strong jawlines with balanced cheekbones and broad foreheads. Like round faces, they’re relatively equal in terms of length and width but with sharp angles at the jaw. 

Shield and wrap-around shades with rimless frames are ideally suited to this distinctive and chiseled face shape. Also consider slightly curved wrap-around frames to balance out those sharp features. 

How to find the perfect wrap-arounds for you

If you’re drawn to a particular style of wrap-around sunglasses or shields but that look isn’t specifically recommended for your face shape, don’t let that dissuade you! These are merely guidelines. 

The main purpose of sunglasses should be to protect your eyes from the sun’s potentially harmful ultraviolet rays. Style is, of course, important to most of us, but it should be secondary to protection. 

Don’t be afraid to play around with wrap-around styles and just wear what makes you happy and comfortable. 

Page published on Friday, March 27, 2020