Eye doctors prescribe glasses to correct a wide range of conditions, from astigmatism and anisometropia to nearsightedness and farsightedness. In addition to helping you see, the frames you choose will accentuate your appearance and complement your personal aesthetic. If you know your face shape, choosing the best style to display your features will help you feel confident while enjoying sharp, clear vision. Here’s what you should know before choosing frames.

5 Face Shapes to Consider When Choosing Glasses

1. Round

A round face is as wide as it is long, presenting an even appearance that can benefit from frames that make it appear longer and narrower. Large, squared frames typically achieve this result, as they draw attention to the center of the face rather than its edges. Avoid round, small, or rimless frames that may intensify your face’s roundness.

2. Oval

As the most common shape, an oval face has a rounded jaw that's typically slightly narrower than the forehead, resulting in a proportional, elongated appearance. Oval-faced individuals generally look best with geometric or angular frames that are slightly broader than the wider upper third of the face. Frames to avoid include oversized options that can make the face look undersized.

3. Heart-Shaped

Heart-shaped faces are distinguished by high cheekbones, a broad forehead, and a narrow or sharp chin. Those with this face shape typically do best by choosing round or square frames that add width to the narrower part of the face, evening out and highlighting their best features. Frames with decorative temples that draw attention to the forehead should be avoided.

4. Diamond

Foreheads and chins of almost equal narrowness characterize diamond-shaped faces. Round, oval, browline, or cat-eye frames can soften angular features in those with diamond-shaped faces. Narrow or angular frames will draw undue attention to the cheekbones, so avoid square or rectangular frames.

5. Square

Square faces are roughly equal in width at the forehead, cheekbones, and chin. People with this versatile face shape can soften their features with round or oval frames or accentuate them with more angular styles with equal success. Those with this face shape shouldn’t wear small frames that make the face appear excessively large.

Choose the perfect pair of glasses after a comprehensive exam with the eye doctors at Tri-State Ophthalmology in Ashland, KY. Serving area residents since 1963, this team of eye doctors offers a full range of services, including routine examinations, fittings, and surgical treatments for serious conditions. Visit their website for more information on their offerings, or call (606) 324-2451 to schedule an appointment.