The JOIUSS Face Shape Guide

A Considered Approach to Choosing Frames That Complement Your Features.

Choosing the right frames is an art, not a science. While personal style is paramount, understanding your face shape can provide a valuable framework for selecting eyewear that balances your proportions and enhances your natural features. This guide is designed to provide optical principles and vintage-inspired recommendations, not strict rules. Use it to find frames that feel like they were made for you.

First, What Is Your Face Shape?

Identifying your face shape is simpler than it sounds. All you need is a mirror or your phone's camera. Pull your hair back and pay attention to these three key areas:

  1. Your Jawline: Is it rounded, sharp and square, or pointed?
  2. Your Face Width: Is your face widest at your forehead, cheekbones, or jaw?
  3. Your Face Length: Is your face generally short and wide, or long and narrow?

Compare your observations to the six core shapes to find your closest match.

The Six Core Face Shapes

A Guide to Frames for Every Face

For the Round Face: Create Definition

Characteristics: Soft, curved lines with a face that is roughly equal in width and length. Cheeks are often full.

The Goal: To add angles, create definition, and make the face appear longer and thinner.

Recommended Frame Styles: Square, Rectangular, Geometric, Cat-Eye, Wayfarer.

JOIUSS Recommends: The sharp angles of the Kent and the subtle lift of the Hedy cat-eye add structure and balance to a round face.

For the Oval Face: Maintain Balance

Characteristics: Considered the most universal face shape, with balanced proportions, a chin slightly narrower than the forehead, and high cheekbones.

The Goal: To maintain the natural balance of the face.

Recommended Frame Styles: Almost anything goes! Just avoid frames that are too narrow or too wide.

JOIUSS Recommends: The classic proportions of the Oscar and the versatile shape of the Lana are perfect for an oval face.

For the Square Face: Soften Angles

Characteristics: A strong, angular jawline and a broad forehead. The face is roughly equal in width and length.

The Goal: To soften the sharp angles and add curves to the face.

Recommended Frame Styles: Round, Oval, Aviator, Cat-Eye.

JOIUSS Recommends: The soft curves of the Russ and the rounded silhouette of the Rita beautifully contrast with a square jawline.

For the Heart Face: Add Width to the Chin

Characteristics: A broad forehead and wide cheekbones that narrow to a smaller chin.

The Goal: To draw attention downward and add width to the lower part of the face.

Recommended Frame Styles: Frames that are wider at the bottom, Round, Oval, Aviator, Rimless or Light-Colored Frames.

JOIUSS Recommends: The bottom-heavy design of an Aviator or the soft, low-profile curves of the Oscar can balance a heart-shaped face.

For the Diamond Face: Highlight the Eyes

Characteristics: The rarest face shape, defined by high, dramatic cheekbones, a narrow forehead, and a narrow jawline.

The Goal: To soften the cheekbones and draw attention to the eyes.

Recommended Frame Styles: Cat-Eye, Oval, Browline, Rimless.

JOIUSS Recommends: The upswept shape of the Hedy cat-eye accentuates the eyes, while the clean lines of a Browline frame complement high cheekbones.

For the Triangle Face: Add Width to the Forehead

Characteristics: A narrow forehead that widens at the cheeks and jaw.

The Goal: To add width to the upper third of the face.

Recommended Frame Styles: Browline, Cat-Eye, frames with heavy detail or color on the top half.

JOIUSS Recommends: A classic Browline frame or the strong top line of the Kent will effectively balance a triangle face shape.

More Than Just Your Face Shape

  • Frame Proportions

    Ensure your frames are in scale with your face. The width of the frame should not extend beyond the width of your face, and your eyes should be centered in the lenses.

  • Your Eyebrows

    The top line of your frames should follow the natural curve of your eyebrows, sitting just below them without obscuring them.

  • Your Personal Style

    Ultimately, the best frames are the ones that make you feel confident. Use this guide as a starting point, but always let your individual taste be the final decider.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common face shape?

Oval is generally considered the most common face shape, known for its balanced proportions.

Can I wear any frame shape I like?

Absolutely! This guide offers suggestions based on optical principles of balance, but personal style and confidence are the most important factors. If you love a frame, wear it.

What if I'm between two face shapes?

Many people are a combination of shapes. If you are, you have more flexibility! Look at the recommendations for both shapes and see which frames appeal to you most.

Do the same rules apply for sunglasses?

Yes, the same principles of balance and proportion apply. However, you can often be bolder and choose larger frames with sunglasses.

How do I know if my glasses are the right size?

Your eyes should be centered in the lenses, the frames shouldn't be wider than your face, and they shouldn't slide down your nose. Check our guide on frame measurements for more details.

What are the best glasses for a small face?

Look for frames with a smaller lens width and bridge size. Avoid oversized or heavy styles. Round and oval frames often work well.

Does my prescription limit my frame choice?

For very high prescriptions, smaller, thicker frames are often recommended to minimize lens distortion and thickness. Your optician can provide guidance based on your specific needs.

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