So Let Me Put On My Shades: How to Find the Perfect Pair
It’s the one accessory every man should have for the Summer, a good pair of sunglasses. But surprisingly most men can’t seem to figure out what type of frames will compliment their face best, trust me I’ve been there. Usually, the problems are due to several factors and can easily be corrected when you shop the right way.
There are several things to remember when selecting sunglasses, like making sure they fit to your temples. Every now and then I’ll spot a guy on the street, in the park or mall (Yes, a mall. An indoor space… I don’t wanna talk about it, sunglasses inside is a WHOLE other blog post) wearing shades that are way too small for them. It’s as if they stole a pair from a younger sibling rather than taking a second to study their actual face.
I’ve noticed that most men don’t seem to know what their face shape is or what type of sunglasses would compliment them best. Now, if you’re reading this and realize that’s you then here’s a quick trick to help you figure that out
Go to a mirror and grab a bar of soap or a washable marker and stand at arm’s length you’re your reflection and trace the outline of your face on the mirror, take a step back and you look at the final shape. If you’ve done this correctly, then you should have a clear idea of what your face shape is.
If you have no idea what your face shape here’s list of options:
Round
A round face is made up of soft curves and smooth lines and generally the same width from the jaw to the brow line. With round faces, the cheeks are usually full, and the chin is rounded with very few angles. Unlike some other face shapes, a round face is often very distinguished because it is all about the curves. Look for shades that balance those curves with straight lines. Thin, dark horizontal shades with a little curve at each end usually flatter a round dace shape. Go for the following:
Square Sunglasses
Browline Sunglasses
Retro Sunglasses
Rectangular Sunglasses
Clubmaster Sunglasses
Oval (That’s Me!)
If you’re blessed with this classic shape, the “medium” of faces, than congratulations you can’t really go wrong (Joking!!!) but guys with an oval face can wear almost any frame shapes. Because an oval face generally has a narrower forehead and slightly narrow chin, it’s MUCH easier to pair with any frames. An oval face is considered the most universal face shape, so experiment with classic aviators, wraparound frames or vintage rounds until you find a style or several that best suit your personality. But remember you can screw up your facial proportions if you draw too far outside your own lines. You can destroy that symmetry with shades that extend too far beyond the width of your face.
Square
Where my block heads at?! A square face often has bold, angular features and cut a clean, straight line from the forehead to the jaw. I will say guys that men with a square face are blessed with most men’s desired jawline, so shout out to y’all. But one thing I really need you to remember is that a square shaped face should be avoiding frames that are meant for a round and oval shaped face. Don’t fight with me on this, I’m doing you a favour. If you have a square face, avoid overly boxy frames. Pick shades with a little curve or slant, a little more horizontal than vertical streamlining will be your best bet.
Oblong
Now, the oblong face is tricky. The shape is about twice as long as it is wide so invest in frames that’ll divide and balance a long and narrow face. An oblongs face can get away with oversized sunglasses or classic rectangular frames. But there are a few styles you might want to make a hard pass on, like frames that makes your face look longer than it is. This includes extremely narrow or small round lenses or teardrop frames that draw the eye downward. Because overly wide frames exaggerate the narrowness of your face, look for sunglasses that extend no more than a couple millimeters beyond your hairline.
Heart-Shaped
Now, a heart-shaped face is basically an inverted triangle. A heart-shaped face is made up of a broad forehead tapering to a pointed chin, so when choosing a pair of sunglasses the goal is to shift the attention away from the straight edges of the face and to create a more elongated look. This can be done by wearing wrap styled frames, aviators, and/or round frames which will give the illusion of a more rounded face. The sporty, clean, horizontal lines of elongated oval lenses look just right on a long, heart-shaped face.
But remember: The whole "face shape" theory is not going to solve all your problems, most of us don't fit perfectly into one category. So, once you have a general idea of what group your face falls in the next step should be what style are you going for and what frames complement you.
Aesthetics aside, men’s sunglasses don’t go through as many trends as clothing does and thank God for that! Sunglasses are style staples that will are best served by following the classics. Here are my top picks to choose from.
Aviators
The aviators are easily my favourite sunglasses. Aviators are iconic, look great on almost everyone and go great with every look, from street style to corporate chic. They’re easily the most popular and in demand style in menswear. This is my personal favorite among sunglass styles.
Wayfarer
Now, these frames are one of the most cited designs in sunglasses history. They were made popular in the 50’s for the durable black frames and geek chic appeal. I’m partial towards original black frames, but if you’re looking for a pair that’s a bit less vanilla, then consider getting frames that are lighter coloured or have a pattern to them.
Rimless
Rimless frames…. I have hard thoughts on these ones. On one hand, I see the appeal and think it does look great on some guys. But on the other hand, rimless frames cream 1990’s and not in a good way. I see them and think and think “He’s auditioning for the Montell Jordan’s This Is How We Do It video reboot.” So, unless you’re super bold in your style tread lightly with these one.
I know there are a ton of other styles of sunglasses, but you get the idea. You should be thinking about what sunglasses complement your actual style. If you enjoy having options, I personally think 3 pairs should be the limit. No guy needs a drawer full of sunglasses. You’re just throwing money away as no one really wears 30 different pairs of sunglasses in a season, and if you do… you have way too much time on your hands.
Hopefully these tips have made you more confident in finding the right glasses for your face shape. I’d love to know your thoughts sunglasses, have you picked some duds or do you prefer odd or obnoxious shades, is that your thing? As always comment below and let’s keep the conversations going.