Frames
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6 min read
Choosing frames for your face shape
Face-shape rules are a starting point, not a law. Our optician’s shortcut to finding frames you’ll actually wear.
Priya Shah, ABOC
Most people walk up to our frame wall and freeze. There are a lot of frames. Here’s the shortcut I use to get from 1,200 options to the five worth trying on.
Start with contrast
A simple guideline: frames often look balanced when they contrast with your features. Softer round frames tend to balance angular faces, while square and rectangular frames add structure to rounder ones.
A quick guide
Round faces: square, rectangular or geometric frames
Square faces: round, oval or cat-eye frames
Oval faces: most shapes, try something bold
Heart-shaped faces: round, aviator or light metal styles
Fit matters more than shape
The frame should be about as wide as your face, your eyes should sit near the center of each lens, and the bridge should rest without pinching. I measure all three while you try frames on.
Then break the rules
The best pair is the one you reach for every morning. Bring a friend, take mirror photos and try at least one frame you’d never have picked.
This article is general information, not medical advice for your eyes. Sudden vision loss, flashes of light, new floaters or a painful red eye need urgent care, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
Lumen Eye Studio · Ballard
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