12 Flattering Sunglasses For Every Face Shape (And What To Skip)

I used to think sunglasses were just about blocking the sun—or hiding from people I didn’t want to say hi to. But then I realized: picking the right pair is almost like choosing the right partner.

If it flatters your face, boosts your confidence, and goes well with every outfit, then darling, you’ve found “the one.”

With a zillion styles out there (seriously, it’s a jungle), it can be overwhelming. But once you understand what works for your face shape, it’s like unlocking a whole new level of style.

So, let’s get into it—here are my tried-and-true picks for sunglasses that do your face justice, and a few that are best left on the shelf.

1. Aviators

There’s just something about aviators that makes me feel like I’m one dramatic breeze away from boarding a private jet.

With their sleek metal frame and teardrop shape, they magically soften angular features—especially if you have a strong jaw or prominent cheekbones (blessed, honestly).

I swear, every time I put mine on, it’s like instant charisma. They’re incredibly flattering on heart, oval, and square faces. If you’re unsure where to start, aviators are that one ex who never lets you down.

2. Wayfarers

Wayfarers are the Audrey Hepburn of sunglasses—classic, confident, and never out of place. Their trapezoid shape adds definition to softer, rounder faces, drawing just enough attention to the eyes without being too loud.

They’re perfect for days when I want to look like I know what I’m doing (even if I don’t). Pair them with a ponytail and a swipe of red lipstick, and suddenly, errands feel like a fashion shoot.

Bonus: they’ve been cool since the ’50s, and that kind of longevity earns respect.

3. Round Frames

Round frames are like the quirky friend you didn’t know you needed. They’re perfect for heart-shaped faces and anyone who loves a vintage vibe with a touch of poetry.

Personally, I adore wearing them with flowy dresses or when I’m pretending to be in a French indie film. But let’s be honest—if your face is already round, these might make you look like a moon emoji. In that case, maybe skip the nostalgia and try something more angular.

4. Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Every time I put on a pair of cat-eyes, I feel like I should be sipping espresso on a rooftop in Milan. These sunglasses just do something—they lift your face, your mood, and frankly, your entire vibe.

Perfect for heart and oval faces, cat-eyes create the illusion of sculpted cheekbones (even if all I’ve sculpted lately are snack portions). Just a heads-up: if you’ve got a square face, try before you commit.

Some versions might look more like a costume party than a classy throwback.

5. Oversized Square Sunglasses

When I want to go incognito at the grocery store but still look like I’m avoiding paparazzi, oversized square sunnies are my go-to. They scream mystery, power, and “I make spreadsheets and stir drama.”

They’re fabulous for round and oval faces—they add structure where it’s needed. But if your face is on the petite side, they can overpower you faster than a bad blind date. Choose carefully, or you might end up looking like a fashionable bug (it happens).

6. Rectangle Frames

Rectangle frames are for those days when I want to look like I have my life together—even if I hit snooze seven times. They sharpen round faces and give that “I mean business, but make it fashion” feel.

They transition easily from gym run to brunch, which is why I love them. Just keep in mind: if your face is already more angular, rectangles might double down on those lines in a way that’s… a little too geometrically honest.

7. Browline Glasses

Browlines make me feel like I should be solving mysteries in the 1950s—with perfect hair and a trench coat. They’re dramatic in the best way, especially for heart and square-shaped faces.

The strong upper frame draws attention upward, balancing things out beautifully. But if your features are on the softer or smaller side, these might end up wearing you.

Try them in person first—some styles are more “wow,” while others are more “why.”

8. Oval Frames

Oval frames are like a good friend: reliable, flattering, and never too much. They soften sharper features on square faces and balance out round ones without stealing the spotlight.

If you’re a minimalist at heart but still want to look put-together, these are your match. I keep a pair in my bag just in case I need to “accidentally” bump into an ex while looking mysteriously unbothered.

9. Geometric Styles

If sunglasses had a fashion runway, geometric styles would strut first—and probably trip no one. With their unexpected shapes, they suit angular faces best, giving just the right level of edge.

I wear mine when I feel like disrupting the energy in a room (in the best way). But fair warning: if your features are soft or delicate, these might do too much of the talking. And not always in your favor.

10. Rimless Sunglasses

Rimless sunglasses are the whisper in a world of shouts. They’re barely there, and that’s their charm. Light, minimalist, and effortlessly cool, they work on most face shapes, especially heart and square.

They’re my pick for beach days, spontaneous road trips, or when I want my outfit—not my eyewear—to do the talking. Just be sure you don’t need major structure—rimless can sometimes fade into the background too much.

11. Soft Square Sunglasses

Think of these as the mellow cousin of the classic square frame. They keep the structure but take the edge off—perfect for round and oval faces that need a little definition without going full-on architectural.

These are my meeting-to-martini glasses. They say, “I’m here to win, but I’ll do it with a smile.”

If your face is already sharp, though, they might not give you the contrast you want.

12. Gradient Lenses

There’s just something cinematic about gradient lenses. Maybe it’s the way the light fades—or the mysterious air they give. Either way, they flatter everyone, especially oval and heart-shaped faces.

They’re my ride-or-die for weekend getaways and long drives.

Plus, they’re practical: protection up top, clarity below. Just keep in mind—if you’re in blazing sun, you might want something with a bit more oomph in the UV department.