How to Find the Best Shape for Sunglasses

All those trendy sunglasses hanging on the racks and only that tiny mirror to peek at when trying on new frames. Under such conditions, buyer's remorse is almost inevitable. But some basic knowledge about face shape and sunglass styles can open up new possibilities and let mistakes stay on the rack this time.

Instructions

Know Your Face Shape

1. Know a few basic rules. If you have a small face, avoid large sunglasses; a larger face needs larger glasses.

2. Identify your face shape. Generally, the frame shape should be the opposite of your face shape. This creates balance and hides flaws. An oval face has length more than width; a round face is as long as it is wide. If your face is a diamond shape that means you have high cheekbones and a narrow chin; a square face means strong jaw line and a broad forehead. A face with a narrow jaw and a wide forehead is triangular.

3. Ask for opinions from friends and/or the stranger trying on glasses next to you. Don't be shy.

Find Your Style

1. Add some color to your face. Colored frames draws attention. If you choose something beyond the standard black shades, go with one that enhances your skin tone and hair color.

2. Check the tag to be sure it says 100% UVA and UVB. This means you are getting the highest sun protection.

3. Try rectangular frames for round faces; they need wider frames that add definition. Diamond faces look great in oval or rimless sunglasses. Square faces can wear oval or round glasses, and can even get away with the cat's eye shape. Triangular faces should go for sunglasses with a straight top line. If you have an oval face, you're lucky; just about any style works for you, it's just a matter of taste.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware that weight gain or loss can significantly change your face shape. Also, face shape can change with age.

• Be sure your eyes are in the center of eyeglass frame for best look and fit. Also make sure glasses sit evenly on the ears and are level.

• Cheap sunglasses are fine, everyone has them, but spending a little more from time to time will increase the actual benefit of wearing sunglasses, beyond looking cool. Sunglasses protect the eyes from ultraviolet rays and higher quality glasses completely block such rays. Sunglasses can also make activities such as driving, skiing or riding a motorcycle safer by reducing glare and sharpening vision.

Resources

• Eyeglasses.com
• Lenscrafters
• Focus on Style