If you’ve ever stood in front of a mirror with 5 different pairs of sunglasses scattered on the counter, you may have asked yourself this exact question. The aviators looked great on your friend, but they seem to swallow your features. Those trendy cat-eye frames caught your attention online, yet they feel completely wrong when you try them on.
When you understand your face shape and know which styles work best for you, finding sunglasses that suit your face becomes less overwhelming and much more enjoyable. Finding the perfect sunglasses isn’t just about following the latest fashion trends or grabbing the first pair that fits your budget. The right frames can enhance your best features, complement your style, and most importantly, protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Why UV Protection Matters More Than Style
Your eyes are susceptible to ultraviolet radiation, and prolonged exposure can lead to serious problems like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even cancer of the eyelids.
Quality sunglasses block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. This protection is especially important here in Canada, where snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays during the winter months. Plus, even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful rays can penetrate clouds.
Since not all sunglasses are created equally, it is important to choose the right place when purchasing them. Reputable sunglass retailers ensure that the lenses in the sunglasses provide the maximum protection for your eyes and customize the fit of them to your face to ensure they stay in place. After all, if they’re not sitting well, they’re not going to provide the best protection.
Understanding Your Face Shape
Identifying your face shape is the first step in finding flattering sunglasses. An easy way to do this is to stand in front of a mirror and trace your face with lipstick or a washable marker. Then you’ll have a clear view of your face shape.
- Round faces have soft curves with similar width and length measurements. Your cheekbones are likely the widest part of your face, and you have a rounded chin without sharp angles.
- Square faces feature a strong jawline with angular features. Your forehead, cheekbones, and jaw are roughly the same width, creating bold, defined lines.
- Oval faces are longer than they are wide, with gently curved edges. Your forehead is slightly wider than your chin, and your cheekbones are the broadest part of your face.
- Heart-shaped faces have a wider forehead that narrows down to a pointed chin. Your cheekbones may be high and pronounced, creating that classic heart silhouette.
Choosing Sunglasses for Your Face Shape
Once you determine your face shape, it’s easy to find sunglasses that protect you and look amazing.
Round Faces
If you have a round face, angular frames will add definition and create the illusion of length. Look for rectangular or square-shaped sunglasses that extend slightly beyond your cheekbones.
Aviators with their teardrop shape also work great on round faces. This is especially true for styles with more angular or geometric bridges. Independent optometry practices are able to offer exciting variations to traditional aviators in addition to mainstream bestseller options, which allows you to customize them to your personal style.
Square Faces
Square faces benefit from sunglasses that soften angular features and add curves. Round or oval frames create beautiful balance by echoing the natural curves that are often lacking in your facial structure.
Cat-eye sunglasses are particularly flattering, as they lift and elongate the eye area while adding feminine curves. Oversized round frames also work wonderfully, especially those with subtle embellishments or gradient lenses.
Oval Face
Lucky you—oval faces are considered the most versatile when it comes to sunglasses. Most frame styles will look great on you, so this is your chance to experiment with trends and express your personality.
Oversized frames, whether square, round, or cat-eye, all complement oval faces beautifully. You can also pull off more dramatic styles like geometric frames or wraparound sports sunglasses.
Heart-Shaped Face
Heart-shaped faces look amazing in frames that balance a wider forehead with a narrower chin. Bottom-heavy frames or styles that add width to the lower part of your face work particularly well.
Aviators are excellent choices, especially those with coloured or mirrored lenses that draw attention to your eyes. Cat-eye frames with upswept corners also complement heart shapes beautifully by echoing your natural facial lines.
Look for frames that are wider at the bottom, such as butterfly shapes or round frames with decorative elements along the lower rim.
Supporting Independent Canadian Businesses
When you shop for sunglasses at independent optometry practices, you’re supporting local entrepreneurs who are passionate about eye health and customer service. These businesses often carry independent frame manufacturers who prioritize quality craftsmanship and sustainable production methods.
Your local optometry clinic takes time to help you find frames that truly suit your face shape, lifestyle, and budget. They will also ensure your sunglasses have proper UV protection and can add prescription lenses if needed.
We carefully source frames from international brands that prioritize eco-friendly materials, such as recycled acetate and responsibly sourced wood. These selections aren’t just better for the planet—they also offer a unique alternative to the mass-produced options you’d typically find in big-box stores.
Finding Your Perfect Pair
Shopping for sunglasses should be an enjoyable experience, not a frustrating guessing game. Armed with knowledge about your face shape and an understanding of which styles work best for you, you can shop with confidence.
Remember that fit is just as important as style—your sunglasses should sit comfortably on your nose without sliding down or leaving marks. The frames should be wide enough that your eyes are centred in the lenses, and the temples should rest gently on your ears without pinching. When purchasing sunglasses from us, we’ll adjust the frames to ensure they properly fit your face.
Visit Us to Find Your Next Sunglasses
If you’re ready to find sunglasses that truly suit your face and protect your vision, contact us or visit Old South Optometry. Our team takes the time to understand your needs and helps you discover frames that enhance your natural features while providing the UV protection your eyes deserve.
We also carry an excellent selection of independent designers who create unique, high-quality eyewear you won’t find anywhere else.
