The right glasses change how people see you before you say a word. The golden rule is simple: choose a frame that contrasts with your face shape. Round faces need angles, angular faces need curves. This guide helps you find your face shape in a minute, then choose your frame with confidence.
- Compare forehead, cheekbones and jaw to find your shape in under a minute.
- Contrast is the rule: angular frames for soft faces, rounded frames for angular faces.
- Fit matters as much as shape: your eyes should sit near the centre of each lens.
- The numbers inside the arm (for example 52-18-140) are your fastest shortcut to the right size.
How to Find Your Face Shape in One Minute
Stand in front of a mirror with your hair pulled back, then trace your outline with a washable marker or take a straight-on photo. Compare three things: forehead width, cheekbone width and the shape of your jawline, then check whether your face is clearly longer than it is wide.
The Best Frames for Each Face Shape
| Face shape | Frames that suit you | Best to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Oval | Almost every shape, especially wide square frames and aviators | Frames that are very narrow or very large for your face |
| Round | Rectangular and square frames with clear angles, slightly wider than your face | Small round frames and shapes with no angles |
| Square | Round and oval frames, thin or semi-rimless styles | Sharp square frames and very heavy frames |
| Heart | Bottom-heavy frames, soft cat-eye, rimless | Decorated or heavy top rims |
| Diamond | Oval and cat-eye frames, browline styles | Narrow, angular frames |
Blue Beat Grey
Oga Rimless
Zegna EZ5246
Dior BrownThe Sizing Rules Nobody Tells You
Frame shape is half the story; size is the other half. A beautiful frame in the wrong size will slip, pinch or put your eyes in the wrong place.
- Width: the frame should be about as wide as your face at the temples, with no big gaps and no pressure.
- Eyes centred: your pupils should sit roughly in the horizontal middle of each lens.
- Bridge: it should rest on your nose without pressing, and not slide down when you lean forward.
- Brows: the top of the frame should follow your brow line, not cover it completely.
- Arms: they should curve comfortably behind your ears without squeezing your head.
Inside the arm of your glasses you will find three numbers such as 52-18-140: lens width, bridge width and arm length in millimetres. If your current pair is comfortable, note these numbers, because they are the quickest way to choose a new size online.
Colour and Material: The Details That Make the Difference
FAQs
Can I choose a frame that doesn't match my face shape?
Yes. These are guidelines, not rules. What matters most is that you feel comfortable and confident; the guidelines just shorten the search.
How long does it take to make prescription glasses?
It depends on the lens type and prescription. Ask your branch for the expected time for your lens, or order online with free delivery on orders over SAR 150.
Do I need an eye test before buying a new frame?
If it has been more than a year since your last test, yes. The eye test is free at every Barakat Optical branch and makes sure your new lenses match your current vision.
Can an optician tell me my face shape?
Yes. Our opticians at any Barakat Optical branch can confirm your face shape and suggest frames that suit you in person.
Our opticians help you choose the right frame and lens, trusted in Saudi Arabia since 1980.
Book a free eye testFind your nearest branchChat on WhatsApp
