A Handbook of Sunglass Types (by Shape)

Wearing sunglasses not only style your look but provides some other benefits too. There are thousands of pairs of sunglasses out there, and picking the right one can be kind of like trying to find a needle in a hay vacuous. This guide will take you through styles of sunglasses, and cover different face shapes so that you can determine the ultimate combos.

Does Sunglasses Only Add to Style?

A Handbook of Sunglass Types (by Shape)

And sunglasses say so much more than simply a status symbol. They definitely add class to your entire look. Okay, yes, a nice pair can certainly transfer your fashion to another level but there are far more benefits than style.

An example would be protecting yourself from the sun’s dangerous UV (ultraviolet) rays. Long-term sun exposure to UV–that is, too much sunlight over a long period of time–can cause several eye problems—like cataracts, macular degeneration, and photo keratitis (basically a painful sunburn of the eyes).

Yikes! And now here come sunglasses (that block every single UV ray in existence) to save the day and protect your eyes from those dastardly UV rays. Sunglasses also minimize the glare.

Be it a sunny day drive or an outdoor adventure like skiing or hiking, sunlight glare can be blinding and dangerous. Sunglasses with polarized lenses can considerably cut down on the glare from the sun. Therefore, wearing your favorite shades will not only keep you in trend but also protect your eyes from UV rays or sun glares. It’s a win-win situation!

Sunglasses Type Guide

There are multiple kinds of Sunglass Types (by Shape) with different shapes and styles, as all the face types suit a unique style of pair. Here are a few common sunglass styles based on lens shape, and the face shapes that they tend to complement.

Aviator Sunglasses

A Handbook of Sunglass

Classic aviator sunglasses with big and drop-shaped lenses along with thin metal frames. Aviator sunglasses offer a classic and rugged aviator look with their well-known double bridge, sleek temples.

Fitting: Aviator frames are ideal for an oval or square face These shapes are naturally a lot more asymmetric in manner and the teardrop shape of the lenses provides balance. Also, aviators can also be good for heart shaped faces (to soften the angles).

Navigator Sunglasses

 Sunglass Types (by Shape)

In fact these are quite similar to aviator sunglasses. The only significant difference between them is in the shape of the lenses. While aviator sunglasses have round lenses, navigator are more square- or hexagonal-shaped. These make you look different but with aviators in thin metal frames.

Who it works for: Round, oval, and heart-shaped face shapes will do best with navigator sunglasses. Geometric shaped lenses have such well defined edges, which sharpen these kinds of faces.

Wayfarer Sunglasses

Wayfarer sunglasses have a unique appearance that is timeless yet modern, with bold and angular frames. They have a thick plastic frame with a slightly trapezoidal shape that is both fashionable and bold. Wayfarers have been a popular option since the introduction in the 1950s.

What face type is it suitable for: Wayfarer sunglasses are very versatile and suit a huge variety of faces from round, oval, square and rectangular face types. With their edgy look, they can complement any outfit, contemporary yet classic; thus becoming increasingly rapidly the choice for both genders.

Round Sunglasses

Sunglass Types (by Shape)

Sunglasses with round lenses and a frame are very vintage-cute. From tiny to oversize round sunglasses are a statement piece of accessory.

Best for: They are most complementary on square, diamond and heart shaped faces. Which soften angular features and provide balance to a face. Round sunglasses actually suits people who have oval face as well and can help add symmetry & curves to the facial features.

Rectangular Sunglasses

These classic sunglasses with rectangular-shaped frames and lenses are the most versatile. Which have an appeal that is always in style regardless of casual to formal dress. The sophistication of clean lines on rectangular sunglasses instantly gives an edge to your entire outfit.

Good for: They really suit heart, round and oval shapes. These angles provide structure and definition to softer features, which often creates a more balanced and flattering look.

Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Cat-eye sunglasses are a true timeless symbol of femininity and vintage glam. They include a cat-like appearance with outer edges that are up swept. They can range from subtle to dramatic, with thicker frames in an array of different colors and tones.

Who it Flatters: Cat-eye sunglasses look great on heart-shaped faces The up swept angles of the frames help draw attention away from scalp, yielding an in balance and hair complementing look. Cat-eye sunglasses also work well with round and square faces.

Oversized Sunglasses

Stylish and dramatic, the oversized sunglasses provide lenses that are bigger than average sizes. The shapes of oversized sunglasses are not limited to but may include round, square and cat-eye, so it helps in your preference versatility (from fresh vibes to crafty ones).

Who they work for: They complement oval, square and round faces as the contrast really adds depth and definition to the face. Also, they highlight the cheekbones of diamond-shaped faces and provide a pleasing view.

Square Sunglasses

Square Sunglasses: Square sunglasses come with angular frames and straight lines along with sharp edges. Available in materials and colours to be different styles according to preference.

Excellent for: Square sunglasses are especially good for round and oval faces. It has that angular structure and definition to it. These sunglasses can go well with those having rectangular faces as they add an edge to the roundness face.

Wraparound Sunglasses

These are made to deliver your best coverage and convenience. They have a wraparound, curved frame that helps to protect the eyes from UV damage and wind.

Active wearers also like wraparound sunglasses, which are good for sports and outdoor activities.

Best for: Wraparound sunglasses fit snugly against your head and are ideal for all face shapes. Which provide more coverage and added protection for your eyes, suitable for people who are out and about.

Whatever the shape of your face like oval, square or round, wraparound shades will offer you good peripheral vision and protection against wind and sweat.

Browline Sunglasses

This type of sunnies is recognized for its dramatic top frames that resemble brows. The upper rims are thicker and the bottom thinner, giving a unique vintage vibe.

Browline Sunglasses are a favorite among those who want that vintage look with contemporary touch. That is why, whether wearing a classic pair or going for contemporary styles, browline sunglasses can dress up your appearance and make-up an excellent style statement.

Best known for: Browline sunglasses tend to work better on square and oval shaped faces. The eye-catching upper frames accentuate upward, which evens out the facial features and adds slight retro appeal.

Clubmaster Sunglasses (aka Ray-Ban Clubmaster)

Ray-Ban or Clubmaster sunglasses feature retro and modern, with a thick upper frame and thinner metal or plastic bottom rims. They have a classic look The definition of the Clubmasters is basically that of a sophisticated Browline sunglasses.

Great For– Oval, square, heart and diamond-shaped faces Those frames also bring dimension and balance to the face, which is why they are a go-to for both men and women.

If you have a pronounced brow line, it helps bring out the check bones and soften the angles of the face — perfect for those with diamond-shaped faces!

Shield Sunglasses

Single Lens – This design is characterized by a lens that spans one continuous arc across the width of the entire frame. They provide a cutting-edge appearance, and the more people want that futuristic look, they tend toward it.

The last fit is sure to be a stunner: shield sunglasses, which have been one of the hottest gets lately.

Face shape: Available in an oval structure, round, and rectangular as well. Shield sunglasses are great for all face types — OVAL – ROUND – RECTANGULAR. With their unique design, they will become an avant-garde accessory to literally any outfit. Ideal for the beach or an outing in the city, they offer style and performance.

Sports Sunglasses

These are made for outdoor use and they are generally much lighter and more sturdy. Usually, they have wraparound frames and special coatings in the lenses.

Face shapes: Depends on the design, but generally fits all face shapes Most, however, are selected for their utility and safety.

They are ideal to provide great protection and stability when expending energy. Apart from sports persons, cyclists or bikers also tend to choose their shades more for function than fashion. There is more going on than the sun.

Butterfly Sunglasses

Larger frames that resemble butterfly wings are called butterfly sunglasses. They are colorful, usually have a design which makes them even more attractive.

Ideal for: Square, oval and heart-shaped faces These wide frames under cheekbones help add an elegant femininity to the look. These are some of the main kinds of sunglasses available determined by shapes and face structures of users. There are more sunglass styles you can get like hexagonal, octagon, flipper shade etc. These are, of course, general guidelines for the best sunglasses/ face shape combos. Still, there are too many other variables involved when it comes to finding the right pair of shades.

Ideal Sunglass type for Different Face shapes

If all of the above has been too much for you, just check out the short table below and discover which sunglasses are best suited to your face shape.

Sunglass Type Best Suited for What Face Shape
Aviator Oval, Square, Heart-shaped
Navigator Round, Oval, Heart-shaped
Wayfarer Round, Oval, Square, Rectangular
Round Square, Heart-shaped, Oval, Diamond
Rectangular Round, Oval, Heart-shaped
Cat-Eye Heart-shaped, Round, Square
Oversized Oval, Square, Round, Diamond-shaped
Square Round, Oval, Rectangular
Wraparound Suitable for various face shapes
Browline Square, Oval
Clubmaster Oval, Square, Diamond-shaped, Heart-shaped
Shield Oval, Round, Square, Rectangular
Sports Suitable for various face shapes
Butterfly Oval, Heart-shaped, Square

 

Conclusion

What are the different types of sunglass available, Please have a look at the guide for the Best Sunglasses For Your Face Shape and Style. From classic aviators to trendy cat-eye frames to sporty wraparounds, there’s a sunglass type for you. So, check out the sunglass styles and celebrate with an outfit that suits you the best.

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