Is it time to buy a new pair of sunglasses to help protect your eyes this summer? Choosing a pair of sunglasses (or any eyeglasses, for that matter) isn’t always easy. Consider more than just function when choosing new glasses frames. Be sure to find the frames that best fit and flatter your face. If you know the tricks to choosing the right frames for your face, you can reduce or eliminate the frustration that often accompanies shopping for eyeglasses. Here’s an easy guide to picking the perfect pair of sunglasses for you.

Determine your face shape

Everyone’s face is different, of course, but faces tend to fall into a few broad shape categories. Knowing the shape of your face will help you determine the most flattering frames for you. Stand in front of a mirror and figure out which of the shapes below best matches your face.

• An oval-shaped face is mostly balanced, with high cheekbones and a chin that is slightly narrower than the forehead.
• An oblong face is narrow and long with high cheekbones, a long nose and tall forehead.
• The length and width of a round face are almost equal, with full cheeks, a rounded chin and few angles.
• A diamond face is narrow at the eye line and the jaw line, with a small forehead and chin. It has angular features and dramatic cheekbones.
• A heart-shaped face has a broad forehead and cheekbones, which narrow to a smaller
  jaw line and chin.
• A square face is angular with strong, well-defined angles in the forehead, cheeks,
  jaw line and chin. It has proportional length and width.
• A triangular face has a narrow forehead and eye line, and widens at the cheeks and the chin.

Choose your frame shape 

For every face shape, there are certain frames that will flatter the face
and certain frames that should be avoided.

• For an oval face: Choose square, rectangular or geometric frames that will add angles to
  the soft curves your face.
• For an oblong face:If you have a long face, you need frames that will make your face appear
  smaller in comparison. Avoid small or short frames, and stick with broad
  frames with a decorative top rim or temple piece to add width to the face.
• For a round face:Rectangular and horizontal frames can also add length and make a round
  face appear thinner. Frames with temples connecting at the top of the
  frame can also add length. Avoid small or short frames.
• For a diamond face:Dramatic frames, such as upswept cat-eye styles or rimless eyeglasses,
  will emphasize the cheekbones. Oval frames will help maintain balance.
  Avoid narrow frames that draw attention to the narrow eye line.
• For a heart face:Choose frames with a heavy bottom to add width the lower face. Narrow,
  round frames will soften the forehead, and frames with low-set temples
  will draw attention downward and away from a broad forehead. Avoid top-heavy
  styles or frames with decorative temples that draw attention to the broadest
  part of the face.
• For a square face: Oval and round frames will are best for a square face, as they will soften
  its sharp, strong lines. Avoid geometric or square-shaped frames, as well
  as those with low-set temples or bottom color accents that draw attention downward.
• For a triangular face:Rimless frames that accentuate the upper face or top-heavy frames that
  balance the width of the jaw are best. Look for frames that angle inward,
  and avoid narrow frames or those with low temples that widen the jaw.

The tips above are true for both sunglasses and regular eyeglasses. If you are ready to select a new pair of glasses, visit the Key-Whitman Optical Center and have a look at the variety of designer frames available. Our eyewear experts will help you choose the perfect frame to compliment your bone structure, skin tone and personality.