How to Choose Glasses That Flatter Your Face Shape (and Fit Your Lifestyle)

Woman wearing blue Cradle Prescription Glasses.

Finding the right pair of glasses isn’t just about seeing clearly—it’s about choosing frames that feel good, fit right, and bring out your best features. Whether you're browsing prescription glasses or trying to upgrade your reading glasses, knowing your face shape can help narrow the options to what truly works for you.

Start with Your Face Shape

While everyone’s face is unique, most fall into a few general shape categories—oval, round, square, heart, and diamond.

Man wearing Manhattan Reading Glasses and reading a book.

Oval faces can wear just about any style. Try something balanced like the Cove frame for a modern square look or the lightweight, rimless Drift for something more understated.

Round faces benefit from angular styles that add definition. The Nest or Brooklyn Full Frame Reading Glasses offer sharp, structured lines that contrast soft facial features.

Square faces pair well with round or oval frames that soften strong angles. Consider the gently curved Cradle or the timeless shape of the Manhattan Full Frame Reading Glasses.

Heart-shaped faces (wider forehead, narrower chin) look great in bottom-heavy or round styles, like the Glow or the circular Manhattan model.

Diamond faces (narrow forehead and chin, wider cheekbones) shine in browline or cat-eye shapes. The lightweight, flexible Loop is a flattering option that won't overpower.

Think About Bridge Fit and Color

Man wearing blue Cove Prescription Glasses

Comfort is just as important as looks. Glasses should sit comfortably on your nose without sliding. Adjustable nose pads, like those found on the Wisp, help tailor the fit to your face.

When it comes to color, consider your skin tone. Warmer hues (like the tortoise Perch or beige Cradle) tend to flatter golden or olive complexions, while cooler tones (like blue or clear versions of the Brooklyn or Connect Reading Glasses) complement pink or fair undertones.

Match Your Lifestyle

ThinOptics Readers + Keychain Case and Readers + Universal Pod attached to a phone.

If you're always on the move, portability might top your list. Slim and sturdy pince-nez readers like the Readers + Keychain Case or Universal Pod easily stash in a bag or clip to your phone. Prefer a full-frame style but want to stay light? The Brooklyn Full Frame Reading Glasses + Milano Case deliver durability with a compact design.

Need sun protection, too? Opt for photochromic lenses, which transition from clear indoors to tinted outdoors. They’re available in single vision, progressives, bifocals, or even non-prescription—a great solution if you don’t want to carry a second pair of sunglasses with readers.

Your glasses should feel like a natural extension of you—comfortable, practical, and personal. By choosing frames that flatter your face and suit your lifestyle, you’re investing in eyewear that enhances every part of your day, from work to travel to reading in the sun.