Sunglasses

Your Guide to Buying Sunglasses - consider face shape & size, complexion, hair

Sunglasses are a must-have fashion accessory, but it is true that every kind of sunglasses does not suit every face shape, which is why you must put in some thought and research before buying shades that suit you.

The rules of thumb are very simple: people with small faces should wear smaller sunglasses, and people with bigger faces should wear bigger ones. However, the shape of the frame must be in contrast to your face's shape. Just like finding the best romantic match, picking the perfect pair of sunglasses follows the same rule of thumb 'Opposites Attract'. So if you have a rectangular shaped face then you should wear round sunglasses.

Buying sunglasses is not as simple as going into a store and picking a pair out, so make sure you look at a variety before deciding on one. Here are more details on what to look for when shopping for sunglasses:

Face Shape

Round face
In order to play down the fullness of a round face, select frames that have straight or angular lines. Rectangles are a safe and fashionable bet. Deep colors like black and tortoise shell can also help to visually balance your face.

Square face
Complement a square face with frames that are more oval or round. The Jackie O style or an aviator-shape is a good pick. Make sure that the top of the frame sits high enough on the face to downplay the jaw line.

Triangular faceA broad forehead and a narrow mouth and chin define this face shape. Frames with a thin rim and vertical lines will help balance the bottom portion of the face. Frames shouldn't sit too high on the face; otherwise, they'll accentuate the forehead.
Oval face
If you fit into this group, you're lucky because almost any shape looks good on you. Just make sure that the size of the frame is in proportion to your face.

Oblog-shaped face

Oversized round frames will help "shorten" and soften your face by adding width.

Face Size

Small face

Small faces can still pull off oversized sunglasses but should steer clear of thick frames.

Long face

Long faces work best with rectangular frames, which add width and help balance out the face's length. Sunglasses with a low bridge may help shorten the length of your nose.

Skin Color

Face shapes aren't the only deciding factor when choosing sunglasses. Your complexion is very important in choosing the color of your shades.

Pale skin
Fair skin works best with lightweight frames or those with a touch of color like rose or amber. Tortoiseshell frames suit light skin, but you should avoid darker versions. Clear, blue or green frames can drain color from cheeks.

Dark skinGolden or Asian skin works best with silver, gold or clear frames. Avoid black because it can be too heavy.

Dark/black skin
Metallic and amber frames suit black complexions. Black frames can be risky.
Hair

Another thing to consider is the kind of hair you have.

Soft and Curly hair is best paired with rimless frames & delicate shapes.

Very Curly hair is best with small frames that sit within the hairline.

Short hair matches well with round frames.

Very Short hair style works well with colorful and bold designs.

Other Factors

Rimless sunglasses and aviators fit most face shapes.
Your eye should be positioned in the middle of the lens, both horizontally and vertically.
Your sunglasses should not be so small that your eyebrows are visible above the frames.
The edge of the frame should be slightly wider than the widest part of your face.