Glasses for Oval Face: Why Rectangular Frames are Best

👓 The Power of Proportion: How to Choose the Perfect Glasses for an Oval Face

When shopping for new eyewear, it's easy to focus only on color and brand. But the single most important factor in finding a truly transformative pair of glasses is face shape. A frame that complements your features can elevate your look and boost your confidence—a frame that clashes can be surprisingly distracting.

Recently, we challenged our Instagram followers with a fun comparison: This or That? We styled a model with an oval face in two beautiful tortoiseshell frames to show just how much a minor change in geometry can impact the overall look.

Option 1:

Option 2

The Challenge: Two Frames, One Face

Our model has a classic oval face—a versatile shape characterized by balanced proportions, a gently rounded jawline, and high cheekbones. For our comparison, we chose two stylish frames:

• Option 1 (The "Rounder" Frame): A deep, heavy, round-square frame.

• Option 2 (The "Winning" Frame): A sleek, wider Rectangular/Modified Wayfarer.

The difference may seem subtle, but it's crucial! While both frames were fashionable, only one truly enhanced her features.

🏆 The Reveal: Why the Rectangular Frame Wins for Oval Faces

If you chose the more angular, wider frame (Option 2), you were absolutely right! This style is a perennial favorite for oval faces, and here's why it works:

1. It Maintains Natural Balance

Oval faces are considered the most balanced, and the goal of the frame should be to maintain that natural harmony.

• The Rule: The best frame for an oval face is one that is wider than the widest part of the face (the cheekbones) and no deeper than the center of the face.

• The Impact: The wider-than-deep rectangular shape of the winning frame respects the length of the oval face. The rounder, deeper frame (Option 1) added too much vertical weight, which can shorten the face and disrupt its elegant symmetry.

2. It Adds Subtle Definition

While the oval face shape is beautiful, the right frame can add just a touch of structure.

The winning frame has a slight upswept brow line (a modified Wayfarer or soft cat-eye). This subtle lift does two things:

1. It draws the eye slightly outward and upward.

2. It creates a gentle definition around the eye area and cheekbones.

3. It Doesn't Overpower the Features

Because the oval face is so well-proportioned, heavy or oversized frames can easily look out of place. The winning frame is substantial enough to make a statement but not so thick or deep that it overwhelms the model's eyes or cheekbones.

Finding Your Perfect Match

The oval face shape has the most freedom when it comes to eyewear, but the principles of proportionality and balance always apply. Next time you try on frames, keep these guidelines in mind:

• Avoid: Frames that are too narrow (making your face look wider) or frames that are too deep (making your face look shorter).

• Embrace: Rectangular, modified Wayfarers, and soft cat-eye shapes.

At Perspective Optometry, we don't just sell glasses—we fit you with eyewear that celebrates your unique face shape. Stop by our office and let one of our expert opticians guide you to your perfect pair!