5 Best Sunglasses for Round Faces: Selection Guide for the Perfect Pair of Shades

When it comes to choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses, one of the key factors to consider is your face shape. For those with round faces, the quest to find sunglasses that not only protect your eyes but also enhance your facial features can be a bit of a challenge. But don’t worry! Our team at American Optical has put together this guide to help you select the best sunglasses for round faces to ensure you look stylish while emphasizing your best features.

Understanding Round Face Shapes

A round face is characterized by soft features, broad cheekbones, and a curved jawline, with the width and length of the face being roughly equal. The goal when choosing sunglasses for round faces is to add definition and create the illusion of a longer, slimmer face. This is achieved by selecting frames that introduce sharp angles and lines that contrast the natural curves of your face.

Key Features of Round Faces

1. Equal width and length: Round faces typically have a width and length that are almost the same, giving a circular appearance.
2. Wide cheekbones: Usually, the cheekbones are the widest part of the face, contributing to the roundness.
3. Soft jawline and forehead: The jawline and forehead tend to be softer and less pronounced compared to angular faces.
4. Smooth lines and curves: Unlike faces with sharp contours, round faces have smooth lines and curves, offering a youthful look.

How to Measure Your Face

Determining your face shape involves a few simple measurements:

1. Forehead width: Measure the widest part of your forehead, usually between your eyebrows and your hairline.
2. Cheekbone width: Measure across your cheekbones, starting and ending at the pointiest part just below the outer corner of each eye.
3. Jawline width: Measure your jawline at its widest point, which is usually just below your ears.
4. Face length: Measure from the center of your hairline straight down over the front of your nose to the bottom of your chin.

5 Best Sunglasses Shapes for Round Faces

Selecting the right shape of sunglasses can significantly impact how they complement your round face. AO Eyewear has a wide range of shades that will perfectly suit your face.

1. Square or Rectangular Frames

Square-shaped sunglasses and rectangular frames are the go-to choices for round faces. At AO Eyewear, we suggest opting for sunglasses with straight lines, sharp corners, and bold frames to add angles and dimension. The Tournament model, with its rectangular design, offers a sleek and sophisticated look that perfectly complements round faces by elongating and adding sharpness to soft facial contours.

2. Browline Frames

Browline sunglasses feature bold upper frames that mimic the appearance of eyebrows. This design draws attention upward, which can help to elongate the face and balance out its roundness. Look for browline frames like Sirmont with angular or squared-off shapes for added definition.

3. Oversized Sunglasses

Oversized frames, whether they’re square, rectangular, or even round, can work wonders for round faces. An oversized pair draws attention to the upper part of your face, making it appear longer and more defined. Plus, they have the added benefit of providing extra protection from the sun.

AO Eyewear's range includes several oversized options that can achieve this effect. You can consider the Hazemaster model depending on the size selected. This style is not only iconic but offers the added benefit of substantial coverage.

4. Cat Eye Frames

The Whitney model is a perfect example of cat-eye sunglasses that add a touch of femininity and glamour which is ideal for softening the features of a round face. Its upswept outer edges elegantly lift the face to create a more defined silhouette.

5. Wayfarer Sunglasses

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by American Optical | AO Eyewear (@aoeyewear)

The classic Saratoga, inspired by the wayfarer design, is an excellent choice for almost any face shape, including round faces. Its signature design elements, such as the spearhead silver decor and sleek temple design, add a timeless charm and a subtle slimming effect to the wearer's face.

5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Pair of Eyewear

Choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses involves more than just picking a style you like — it requires considering how the sunglasses fit, their color relative to your skin tone, and overall comfort. We’ve put together some pointers to help you select the perfect pair of sunglasses for your round face.

1. Consider the Frame Size

The size of the frame should be in proportion to your face. Large frames are generally a good choice for round faces, as they help to elongate and slim down the appearance of your face. However, avoid frames that are too large, as they can overwhelm your facial features.

2. Look for Sharp Angles and Straight Lines

Frame shapes with sharp angles and straight lines add definition to a round face. These elements contrast with the soft features of a round face shape to create a balanced look.

3. Pay Attention to Color and Skin Tone

The color of your sunglasses can also play a role in how they complement your face. Those with cooler skin tones may look best in frames with silver, black, or blue hues, while warmer skin tones can be enhanced with gold, brown, or tortoiseshell frames.

4. Don't Forget About Comfort

While style is important, comfort should never be overlooked. Ensure the sunglasses you choose fit well without pinching your nose or temples. A comfortable pair of sunglasses is one you'll want to wear all day.

5. Try on Different Styles

The best way to find the perfect sunglasses for your round face is to try on various styles. This will allow you to see firsthand how different shapes and sizes affect your appearance and which frames make you feel most confident. Use our virtual try-on feature while shopping to see how each style will flatter your face.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

When shopping for sunglasses for a round face, be sure to avoid certain common pitfalls to ensure you choose a pair that flatters your features:

1. Avoiding circular frames: Circular or round sunglasses tend to exaggerate the roundness of the face rather than balance it. Opting for angular frames instead can help elongate and add definition to your face.
2. Selecting the right size: Sunglasses that are too small can make your face appear larger, while overly large frames may overwhelm your features. Aim for a balanced size that covers your eyes comfortably without extending too far beyond the widest part of your face.
3. Ignoring frame thickness: Thicker frames can add the illusion of sharpness and structure to a round face, while thin frames might not make as much of an impact. Consider the frame's thickness and how it complements your facial features.
4. Neglecting color and style: The color and style of your sunglasses can also impact how they look on you. Darker frames can create a slimming effect, while bold colors and unique designs can draw attention to the eyes and away from the roundness of the face.

Have a Round Face? Choose the Right Pair of Shades with AO Eyewear!

Finding the best sunglasses for round faces doesn't have to be a daunting task, especially with our team at American Optical on your side. By focusing on frames that introduce sharp angles, straight lines, and a bit of oversized flair, you can highlight your best features while protecting your eyes from the sun. Remember to consider the size, color, and comfort of the sunglasses, and don't be afraid to experiment with different styles until you find your perfect pair.

Whether you're drawn to the classic elegance of cat eye styles, the bold statement of geometric frames, or the timeless appeal of wayfarer sunglasses, the right pair is out there waiting for you. We encourage you to explore American Optical’s extensive collection to find a pair that not only complements your round face but also elevates your style quotient. For almost two centuries, we’ve been committed to helping our customers feel confident!

Reach out to AO Eyewear now and discover the ideal pair of sunglasses for your round face to make sure you look and feel fantastic in the sun.