2009-12-03 / Health & Wellness

Consider face shape when choosing eyewear

Finding the perfect eyeglasses doesn’t have to be difficult or break the bank. One important tip to remember is that facial features are the best guide for selecting the most complementary pair of frames.

“If people try to follow trends too closely when shopping for glasses, they may end up choosing a pair that doesn’t fit properly or complement their face,” said supermodel and fashion designer Daisy Fuentes. “It’s important to find frames that accentuate your best features before focusing on the look you are trying to achieve, whether it’s stylish, intelligent or geek chic.”

Fuentes recommends the following tips for matching the perfect pair of glasses with various face shapes.

Oval. Keep balance and proportion in mind when trying on different options and look for frames that are as wide as the broadest part of the face. Make sure the eyewear features aren’t overwhelming.

Round. A round face is full, with curvy lines and no angles. Use eyewear to provide a slimming effect and minimize the fullness of the face. Avoid square styles. Look for oversized eye shapes in oval or rectangle to make the face appear longer and thinner.

Square. Square faces often have a strong jawline, broad forehead and wide chin and cheekbones. Choose a frame with soft lines or curves to enhance and make the face appear longer. Try highlighting the cheekbones with a cat-eye inspired look.

Another factor in choosing frames is the prescription in the lenses, which affects the frame style to pick. Plastic frames are usually the first choice for thick lenses, although they may have a tendency to slide down the nose frequently without adjustable nose supports. Metal frames are more durable and are a great choice for people who prefer a lower-profile design. Whatever the choice of frames, be sure to pick a color that complements hair, eye color and skin tone.

“If you have red hair and freckles, avoid bright red frames. Dark skin tones look great with a lighter pair of glasses and vice versa,” said Fuentes. “Pick hues that accentuate your eye color. You can amplify your brown or blue eyes by wearing glasses with a similar shade.”

After selecting the frames, it’s important for people to wear glasses that are recommended by an optometrist and to get regular eye exams to ensure the prescription stays up to date.

Look for this season’s eyewear trends.

Animal attraction. Leopard and snake in all shapes, sizes and colors. Mix with any trendy color to make a glam statement.

Retro revival. Vintage is new again with a sprinkle of geek chic. A great vintage accessory will spice up any wardrobe and keep a signature look from looking stale.

Star-studded. Bold, brave, confident, perfect to satisfy the inner diva and make heads turn when entering a room.

True beauty . From airy feminine details to dangerous curves, make sure to infuse some personality into an everyday wardrobe.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.

Return to top