We believe that any sunglasses frame can look great on any face shape. That is, no single frame style is better suited for square faces than any other face shape.
But if you’re wondering about how your choice of sunglasses can play off certain features of a square face—we’ve got some tips. In this guide, we’ll point out the characteristics of a square face shape. Then, we’ll discuss how different types of sunglasses can complement or counterbalance those features—in other words, what makes certain sunglasses good for square faces.
How To Figure Out if You Have a Square Face
First things first: How do you know if you have a square-shaped face? The truth is most people have elements of more than one face shape. So it can be hard to know which one is most like yours. (This is another reason to not get too hung up on your face shape when picking out sunglasses.)
But if you have most or all of the following facial characteristics, chances are, your face is more square than another shape:
- A squared, flat chin
- An angular, horizontal jaw
- Prominent, wide-set cheekbones that are more parallel to the jaw
- A broad forehead with a wide hairline
- A face that appears mostly symmetrical
If you want to go a little further in your assessment, take out a measuring tape for a little calculation:
- Measure the distance across your face horizontally from ear to ear.
- Measure the distance vertically from your forehead to your chin.
- If those measurements are roughly the same
, and your face is more angular than round, you’re most likely the owner of a (beautiful) square face.
What Are the Best Sunglasses for Square Faces?
Let’s consider some sunglasses styles that can complement the features of a square-shaped face. This list may help you narrow down your options to find the best style to suit your own unique facial characteristics.
Round Sunglasses
Curvier shapes can be a perfect counterpoint to the sharper lines of a square face shape. And what’s curvier than a circle? Round sunglasses or oval sunglasses can really fit the bill here—adding some softer lines that balance out the artfully drawn angles of a square face.
Aviator Sunglasses
Aviator sunglasses boast a subtle, rounded teardrop shape that’s universally flattering. For angular square faces, the curves of aviators lend a pleasing harmony. At the same time, the narrower point of the teardrop shape has a way of pointing out cheekbones, which are often prominent features of a square face.
Cat-Eye Sunglasses
Cat-eye sunglasses have distinctive upswept “wings” at the outer temples, which counterbalance a wider, square jaw. The bottom portion of a cat-eye shape follows the line of the cheeks upward. This has the effect of framing a square face’s chiseled cheekbones, putting them on center stage.
Oversized Sunglasses
A square face with a wide hairline or broad forehead can showcase oversized sunglasses without getting overpowered by them. They’ll act like an exclamation point for your eyes, emphasizing and drawing attention to the top of your face. Oversized sunglasses can add a certain equilibrium to a prominent jawline—a hallmark feature of a square face.
Geometric Sunglasses
Geometric sunglasses are known for their sharp angles, which can lend a bold look to a square-shaped face. Geometric sunglasses mirror and draw attention to a square face’s own distinctive geometry.
More Tips About Sunglasses for a Square Face (or Any Face)
Now that you’re ready to see how different styles of sunglasses look on your face, it’s a good idea to weigh other factors. These include:
Fit: Ill-fitting can fall off easily, or cause discomfort like headaches and eyestrain. So make sure your sunglasses fit well—not too tight and not too loose—with the correct lens width, bridge width, and temple length.
Color: Finding a frame you like involves more than the style. What color frames complement your skin tone and hair? What color aligns with the aesthetic you like—whether that’s an eye-popping neon shade, a quieter neutral, or something in between? Don’t forget to consider the lens color, too.
Material: Whether acetate or metal, the material your sunglasses frames are made of can move the needle toward one pair over another. Not only will different materials contribute to the look of a frame, they can feel different when you’re wearing them. Metal frames are often lightweight, and nylon frames are especially flexible, for example.
Polarized lenses: Sunglasses fitted with polarized lenses reduce glare and boost contrast, making them great for active and/or outdoor activities like driving, fishing, and biking.
UV protection: Sunglasses aren’t only a style statement. They should protect your eyes from the sun, too. Be sure you’re getting sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays (like all of our eyewear).
Other eyewear options: If you wear prescription glasses, you may wish to explore other eyewear options. For instance, glasses with light-responsive lenses transition from clear when you’re indoors to dark when you’re out in the sun. Or perhaps you’d like glasses with the convenience of compatible clip-on sunglasses.
The Best Sunglass Shape for a Square Face? The Ones That Make You Smile
It’s worth repeating because it’s what we so wholeheartedly believe—the “right” sunglasses for any face shape are the ones that fit the aesthetic you’re looking for. Or simply put, they’re the ones you like most.
