What do you get when you cross a man’s face and an unflattering pair of sunglasses? Read the below and hopefully you won’t ever have to find out.
When it comes to the math of sunglasses, the formula is in fact very simple. Face shape X correct frame shape + UV protection = perfect combination.
In the past, I was a sucker for attempting to push boundaries and mess with this formula, but the results were Always terrible. My face would be consumed by the eyewear.
I've enlisted the expertise of Jamie Bartlett, co-founder of Banton Frameworks
to help you select the perfect pair. I'd like to point out their website has an awesome virtual mirror, so you can try before you buy online!
Primarily, any sunglasses frame, of any shape or style, must protect your eyes from ultraviolet light (UV).
UV light: invisible to the human eye and an unseen threat to your skin and eyes
Visible light: Visible light is different to UV. Simply because...it’s visible. Capiche?
Be wary, as just because a pair of lenses are really dark to look through, they can still leave your eyes completely exposed to UV light without you even knowing.
The Oval Shaped Face
Bravo, you guys are the lucky ones. The majority of hats, sunglasses and haircuts will suit you, so be my guest and smugly take your pick.
Jamie says, 'The rule of thumb is to create geometric contrast with your face and choice of sunglasses frame. E.g. If your face is particularly narrow, sunglasses with rounded edges will complement your cheekbones nicely.'
Round Face
If you have less defined, softer facial features, it's better to avoid round frame shapes.
According to Jamie, 'They’ll widen the appearance of your head and make it seem even rounder,' and I'm guessing you don't want that!
Instead, he suggests opting for a strong contrast with a frame that has angular geometry and pointed corners; especially where it overhangs your cheeks. 'Sharp square frames will strike the perfect balance.'
The likes of the above will break up your face’s natural curvature and enhance the definition and length of your structure. True story.
Square Face
When you have a prominent bone structure, choosing oval and rounded frames can help soften your features and offer a bit of curve appeal.
As square jaws tend to be seen as rather masculine, Jamie recommends steering towards frames with a rounder lower half.
'The classic 1950’s wayfarer style of frame will contrast your angular facial geometry and soften your look.'
The Wayfarer is a timeless frame that will never go out of style. Air on the side of caution when it comes to boxy/square frames as they’ll give a widening appearance to your solid jawline.
Long Face
Similarly to oval faced blokes, you guys have been touched by the eyewear gods, with faces tending to be rather boney and chiselled.
Jamie's advice: 'Maximise your facial definition and go for some really round framed sunglasses. They’ll juxtapose the poignancy of your cheekbones perfectly.'
Square frames also work, however take some inspo from John Lennon I'd say.
A Note on Colour
It's all about balance.
If you have particularly pale skin with a cold complexion, Jamie's recommendation is to 'choose a frame with warming tones; for example tortoiseshell imitation, red Havanna or mono-tone amber acetates.'
When it comes to apparel pairings, it's a game of opposites.
'If you tend to wear a lot of plain pastels or neutral t-shirts, you can really afford to go for a brave acetate pattern or colour combination. On the flip side, if you tend to wear a lot of patterns or even graphic t-shirts (Never do), you’re better off with a neutral, understated colour of sunglasses frame.'
There you have it, a summary of what sunglasses work for you.
And remember, Whether you’re abroad or at home, always check with the vendor selling the sunglasses that they are certified as 100% UV protective.
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