How to Choose Sunglasses for Face Shape and Lifestyle

Women's sunglasses are a fresh frontier for self-expression. From retro-minimalist frames to bold, statement-making shades, they're an easy way to upgrade any look while offering protection from the sun.

While experimenting with the season's trends is fun, every woman should know how to choose sunglasses that suit both her face shape and lifestyle. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about choosing the right women's sunglasses style.

Choosing the best sunglasses for your face shape

A generally foolproof trick is to choose a frame shape that's opposite your face shape. Here's how to identify your face shape and which styles suit you best.

Oval

Slightly longer than it is wide, your face is symmetrical and your jawline tapers toward your chin. Just about every style flatters your face, so take your pick.

Wayfarer
The Wayfarer shape works well on longer faces by complementing their symmetry.

Oversized
Bring the drama by creating more angles with a '70s-inspired pair of sunglasses.

Aviator
Aviator sunglasses complement well-proportioned features with their streamlined design.

Browline
The browline style adds dimension by drawing the eye upward and across the face.

Heart

The widest point of your face is at the cheekbones, then it gradually narrows through to your jaw. Look out for women's sunglasses that are slightly wider than your forehead to balance out your face shape.

Wayfarer brown toned sunglasses with greenish lenses

Wayfarer
Complement your delicate jawline and bring it into proportion with your forehead.

Round
Round sunglasses accentuate cheekbones and visually fills out the lower half of your face.

Cat-eye
These balance your brow line and have an elongating effect.

Sport
Part of the "dad" trend, this sleek, edgy style fits the round lines of your face to a tee.

Round

This shape has softer angles, slightly wider cheekbones, and a forehead and jawline that are balanced. Bold, angular frames give your face structure when the bottoms hit just above your cheekbones.

Wayfarer
Classic and universally flattering, this style's angular lines contrast full cheeks.

Black square sunglasses with rhinestones

Square
Go big with oversized, retro-inspired frames—they're classic and glamorous.

Cat-eye
The cat-eye shape is an instant statement-maker that gives your face the illusion of sharper cheekbones.

Browline
The prominent topline on this vintage-inspired style highlights your eyes.

Square

Your angular face has a prominent jawline that's fairly equal in width to the forehead and cheekbones. Try curved shades that are proportional to the length and width of your face to add balance.

Round
Particularly chic in neutral materials like tortoise shell and horn.

Aviator
Rounded corners at the rim and temples make for sky-high style.

Square shield sunglasses with rounded edges

Shield
Bold and flashy, these round out sharp lines thanks to minimal framing.

Oval
As we've noted, curvier styles will soften the angles of your face.

Frame materials

The comfort, safety, and durability of your sunglasses usually come down to their frames, so consider the occasion and your lifestyle when choosing a pair.

Metal
Durable and less obtrusive to vision thanks to generally thinner designs.

Nylon
Lightweight and inexpensive, with high impact-resistance ideal for sports or travel.

Resin
A plant-derived composite that’s light as air, rock-solid, and made in every color under the sun.

Acetate or plastic
Great for fashion moments, as these can also be produced in nearly any color.

Lens materials

The lens type you choose will depend on how you want to protect your eyes in varying lighting situations and environments. Different materials affect sunglass clarity, weight, and durability.

Plastic
Probably the most commonly used since it’s lightweight and durable with excellent clarity.

Glass
The OG option. Though breakable, glass does have superior scratch-resistance and clarity.

Polycarbonate
A super-tough polymer ideal for sport and travel, as it’s lightweight and heat-resistant.

Black heart shaped sunglasses with acrylic lenses

Acrylic
Flexible, resists scratching, and generally less expensive than glass or polycarbonate.

Lens treatments

Pretty much all sunglasses these days offer UVB and/or UVA protection, though of course you should double-check for that. However, there are other treatments that can help improve your vision and protect your eyes from sun damage.

Photochromic
The opacity of these lenses will change based on how much light there is. They’ll become darker when it’s sunny and lighter when it’s cloudy or there’s shade.

Polarized
These are designed to reduce glare, so they’re your best option if you’ll be near water or just have generally sensitive eyes.

Mirrored
This reflective coating also reduces glare, and additionally, compensates for the tint in windows or windshields, making it great for driving or boating.

Gradient
Transitioning from dark at the top to light at the bottom, these lenses protect your eyes from overhead rays and often have a two-color design that can adjust your vision for various environments. (More on this next.)