Oval just happens to be the jackpot face shape when it comes to selecting sunglasses, as nearly every style will complement your balanced and symmetrical features.
So many different styles are available that finding just the right pair can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Below, we’ll showcase the seven best models of sunglasses that perfectly match oval face shapes and help you find your ideal frames to fit your style, personality, and way of life. From classic to trendy, the best sunglasses for oval face are here to enhance your natural beauty.
How Oval Face Shapes Work
Before we get into specific styles of sunglasses that work, let’s go over what makes an oval face shape special. Oval faces are defined by:
- A wider forehead tapering down to a narrow chin.
- High and prominent cheekbones.
- The face length is greater than the width, creating an appearance that is more elongated than square or round.
This is the sweet balance, which constitutes the reason why oval face shapes can pull off a wide range of sunglasses styles. Many consider this face shape to be the most versatile and adaptable in terms of choosing frames, since balancing proportions—your face doesn’t demand a lot, in comparison to round or square face shapes—is all it takes. Here lies the key in choosing frames: enhancing your features without overpowering your natural symmetry.
How to Select Shades for an Oval Face
While most sunglasses styles are going to look really great on an oval face, there are some frames that especially bring the heat. Here are a couple of things to consider when choosing sunglasses for your face shape:
- Frame Size: The sunglasses should not be too large or too small for your face. A proper frame would accentuate your facial measurements without burying or pinching at the temples.
- Frame Shape: Give different shapes a go, but remember that frames that echo the exact proportions of your face are best avoided. Very ellipsoidal frames may eventually elongate your face longer than its actual length, while very tiny frames look odd.
- Balance and Proportion: A good rule of thumb is to search for eyeglass frames that balance the natural proportions of your face. A slight angular contrast, such as square or rectangular frames, will define sharper features, while round or oval frames will accentuate softer, more balanced curves.
The Best Sunglasses for Oval-Shaped Faces
Aviators
Aviator shades have always reflected effortless elegance and versatility, so they’re so apt for oval-shaped faces. The ever-so-iconic teardrop shape with thin metal frames perfectly contrasts the inborn symmetry of an oval face. Commonly, aviators have always showcased streamlined profiles by adding just the right amount of edge without overdoing it.
Why do they work so well for oval faces? Aviators add just the right amount of contrast to accentuate the bones in the cheeks, and the bottoms of the lenses are a little rounded, softening the look. If you’re after a cool, timeless vibe, aviators are foolproof. Plus, they’re versatile enough to wear with anything—from jeans and a t-shirt to business casual attire.
How to wear them: In their most timeless, everyday guise, opt for classic frames in metal with gradient lenses—or update the style with reflective lenses.
Wayfarers
Wayfarers are arguably one of the most iconic shades styles in the world, and for good reason—they’ve earned a place in fashion history. The bold, angular lines of the Wayfarers perfectly complement oval faces because they add structure without overpowering the natural softness of your features.
Because the Wayfarers are in a rectangular shape, they create a juxtaposition in the visual that will make an oval face appear more defined. This will be especially useful for those who might want a little sharpness in their look. The Wayfarers are pretty versatile and easily transition between formal and casual occasions, so owning this as part of your repertoire is important.
Styling tip: Opt for timeless, classic black or tortoiseshell frames for a classic look, or spice things up with bold colors for a more playful, modern take on the style.
Round Sunglasses
Round glasses are the perfect solution for those who want to resemble a retro style or even a hipster, bohemian type. This style, originally from the ’60s and ’70s, made quite a strong comeback because of its effortlessly cool vibe. On an oval face shape, round sunglasses emphasize the natural harmony of your features.
Round frames balance out the oval face’s curves, while the symmetry enhances the curves of the face without being too over-the-top with drama. Whether slim frames made from metals or those that are thicker and more fashion-forward in design, round sunglasses will always soften your features yet still keep things sophisticated.
Styling tip: Round sunglasses are best paired with casual, laid-back outfits composed of flowy dresses and denim pieces. This is pretty much classic in implementing vintage inspiration. You can also wear lenses in playful colors, like rose or amber.
Cat-eye Sunglasses
Cat-eye sunglasses are the very quintessence of drama, sophistication, and even vintage charm. Upswept frames do a great deal to highlight cheekbones and eyes as the frame of perfection, thus making this an excellent model for an oval face by bringing out the best features. And that extra dose of feminine, flirtatious flair that one adds to any outfit is just an added plus.
While the extended shape of a cat-eye frame contrasts in enhancing an oval face, it adds some degree of sharpness and elegance. Therefore, cat-eye sunglasses can be fantastically worn whether someone intends to attend a very special occasion or just wants to add a touch of glamour to an everyday outfit.
Styling tip: Go fully retro with large cat-eye frames and dark lenses, or bring it up to date with sleek, minimalist frames in neutral colors such as black or beige.
Square Sunglasses
If you like a little bit of an edge with some structure, then square frames are your go-to. The angular lines of square frames create an amazing contrast with the natural curves of an oval-shaped face; they define and sharpen one’s look. The square sunglasses are designed to give your outfit some sense of sophistication and modernity.
The square shades work well for formal and casual events, usually emphasizing great size and color of the frames. The oversized square sunglasses will make a fashion statement, while the more conservative, smaller-sized designs are perfect for everyday wear.
Styling tip: For that high-fashion editorial look, combine the square sunglasses with sharp, structured garments, like blazers or something tailored.
Oversized Sunglasses
But for making a statement, there’s nothing like oversized sunglasses. This style is pulled off easily because oval shapes do not feel overwhelmed by it. The trick lies in not completely covering your features with the frame; think of a design that works with your proportions while still giving you that drama.
Giant shades do the magic, especially for summer and/or vacation, because they add a hint of glamour to an outfit. They are very effective in protecting against the sun, considering their larger lenses, and in a snap, they heighten even the simplest outfits.
Styling tip: Add more glam by opting for oversized sunglasses in bold colors or embellished frames. Pair them with wide-brimmed hats or scarves to get that ultra-chic, sophisticated look.
Clubmasters
Clubmasters scream coolness in retro style. Due to a more typical half-frame construction, Clubmasters draw attention to the top half of one’s face. This is great for oval faces, as this balances the proportions. A bold top rim is juxtaposed against a thinner metal lower frame. Thereby, the frames are chic but have a highly vintage-inspired look, capable of looking at ease in everything from casual to formal situations.
Oval faces have a natural balance with the slightly angular design found in Clubmasters, making them versatile for anyone looking to add that old-school charm to their eyewear collection.
Styling tip: Pair your Clubmasters with a crisp white shirt and tailored trousers for a smarter, timeless look. Loosen up and casually throw on a pair with a simple t-shirt and jeans for relaxed but stylish wear.
How to Style Sunglasses for Different Occasions
Selecting a style of sunglasses is only half the battle; knowing how to style them for different occasions is quite another. Here are a few tips for matching your sunglasses with different attires.
Casual Wear: Aviators, Wayfarers, and round sunglasses are great for hanging out with friends or running errands. Versatility makes them easy to pair with most outfits, adding a casual touch of style.
Formal: Opt for sleeker and more structured cat-eye or square styles for more formal events. This frame style is meant for sophisticated attire, enhancing your appearance by adding an elegant look.
Seasonal Style: Sunglasses are not just for summer! Wearing them can be extended to the colder months, especially if you will be outdoors for a considerable period. Oversized sunglasses work especially well with winter coats and scarves, while aviators can look great with lighter spring and fall attire.
Lens Options and UV Protection
While the style of the frame is important, it’s equally necessary to pay close attention to the lenses. Since the basic function of sunglasses is to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, ensure you choose lenses with 100% UV protection. Here’s what else to consider:
Lens Color: Darker colors are better for bright sunny days, while lighter-colored lenses are useful in lower-light conditions. For those who need sunglasses for a variety of functions, gradient lenses are a great option. Darkest at the top, these lenses lighten gradually toward the bottom.
Polarized Lenses: Polarized lenses are worth the investment if you spend a lot of time outdoors or around reflective surfaces such as water or snow. Polarized lenses reduce glare and improve visibility in bright conditions.
Mirror Lenses: Mirror lenses not only look cool but also reduce the amount of light that enters your eyes, making them ideal for very sunny environments.
Having an oval-shaped face, you can try every style of sunglasses: classic aviators, trendy cat-eyes, or whatever else is under the sun. Be it timeless elegance or modern chic, the best sunglasses for oval face can bring out your best features and add flair to your look. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the one that speaks to you because, after all, sunglasses are just an extension of yourself.
