The Rule: Contrast the Curves
Glasses follow the same principle as haircuts: contrast your face's outline. A round face is about as wide as it is long, with soft curves, so angular frames add the structure it doesn't have. Frames slightly wider than the widest part of the face make it look narrower, and frames that sit a little higher, or have strong top lines, draw the eye up and add length.
Best Frame Shapes for Round Faces
Rectangular: the classic choice; horizontal lines and corners make the face look longer and slimmer. Square: bolder corners for stronger definition. Geometric: hexagonal or octagonal frames add angles without being boxy. Cat-eye: upswept outer corners lift the face and draw the eye up. Browline: a heavy top rim and lighter bottom add definition at brow level.
Read more: Glasses for Oval Faces: What Suits and What to Watch
Frames to Avoid
Small round frames repeat the face's curves and look tight. Narrow frames that don't reach the edges of the face make it look wider. Frameless glasses add nothing to the outline; they're fine if you want them to disappear, but they won't add structure.
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Size, Bridge and Colour
The frame's width should match or slightly exceed your face at the temples. The top of the frame should follow your brow line, not sit far below it. A clear or keyhole bridge that sits a little high makes the nose and face look longer. Darker or bold colours add definition; very pale or clear frames soften less but define less too.
Frame sizes are printed inside the arm as three numbers in millimetres: lens width, bridge width and arm length. Note them from a pair that fits well and use them when shopping.
Read more: Sunglasses for Your Face Shape: A Guide for All 7
Check Your Face Shape First
Round faces are often confused with oval or heart, which suit different frames. The free face scan in Ollie Stylist measures your face shape in your browser and recommends glasses along with haircuts. For other shapes see glasses for oval faces and glasses for square faces.