How to choose glasses for an oval face?
June 16, 2026
The oval face is one of the most versatile face shapes: its balanced proportions work well with a wide variety of frames. But that freedom can also create a certain amount of confusion. When almost any frame shape is an option, how do you choose the one that's truly right for you? This guide helps you understand the characteristics of the oval face, identify the frame shapes that flatter it most and refine your choice based on your personal style. A few well-chosen reference points are all it takes to go from hesitation to a confident decision.
What you’ll find in this article
The oval face: the most versatile face shape
The oval face is recognized by its balanced proportions: a forehead that is slightly wider than the chin, gently defined cheekbones, and an overall silhouette that elongates and narrows toward the bottom. It is often cited as the most harmonious face shape, precisely because it has no particularly pronounced features that need to be compensated for or balanced out.
This versatility is good news, but it can also make the decision harder. When almost every frame shape works, where do you start? The answer has less to do with the shape of your face than with what you want to express. Some frames will elongate your gaze, others will widen it. Some will lean toward understated elegance, others will make a bold statement. The sections below will help you see things more clearly.
The frame shapes that complement the oval face
Rectangular and square frames
Rectangular and square frames create an interesting contrast with the natural curves of an oval face. Their straight lines and angles add visual structure that defines the gaze without disrupting the face's natural proportions. This is a particularly popular choice for professional settings, or for those who prefer a clean, contemporary look. Rectangular frames, being narrower, offer a modern and understated effect. Square frames, more assertive, add more structure and a stronger presence.
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Round and oval frames
Round and oval frames extend the natural harmony of an oval face by playing on the same soft curves. They soften the gaze and work especially well for those looking for a casual, vintage or intellectual aesthetic. Oval frames offer a more neutral option that transitions effortlessly from day to evening.
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Aviator and geometric frames
The aviator is a reliable choice for an oval face. It works just as well for eyeglasses as it does for sunglasses. Geometric frames, such as hexagonals or trapezoids, also suit the oval face very well: their atypical angles create an original contrast with rounded features.
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Butterfly and cat-eye frames
Butterfly and cat-eye frames take full advantage of the oval face's versatility to create a strong visual effect. The butterfly frame lightens the lower part of the face and draws attention to the cheekbones. The cat-eye lifts the gaze and adds an elegant, expressive dimension.
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Frames to avoid for an oval face
Because the oval face is particularly versatile, there are very few frame shapes to avoid entirely. That said, a few choices are worth paying attention to so the end result is truly flattering.
Very small or narrow frames can get lost on an oval face and create an imbalance with its natural proportions. Very large or oversized frames, on the other hand, can weigh the face down. Finally, very horizontally elongated frames can accentuate the length of the oval face.
In all cases, the best way to decide is to try frames on. New Look's virtual try-on tool lets you see different frames directly on your face, without leaving home.
How to refine your choice based on your style
Knowing which frame shapes suit your oval face is a great starting point. But between a sleek rectangular frame and a bold butterfly shape, both can technically work very well. What really sets them apart is your lifestyle and the effect you want to create.
If you wear your glasses mainly at the office or in professional settings, rectangular or slightly oval metal frames offer a polished, timeless look. If you want to express your personality, more statement-making shapes like cat-eye, butterfly, or geometric frames are made for that.
The material and colour of the frame also play an important role. A colourful acetate frame creates a completely different effect than a thin titanium frame, even if both have the same shape.
For those who would like one pair of glasses for the office and another for going out, New Look’s InfiniLook program makes it easy to build a collection of frames suited to every context. You can also consult our guide to choosing the perfect glasses for more tips.
FAQ
Find glasses that feel like you at New Look
Choosing glasses for an oval face is, above all, a matter of personal style. The guidelines presented in this guide give you a solid starting point, but trying frames on is always what confirms the best choice.
Explore our collection of glasses for oval faces online, or use our virtual try-on tool to see different frames directly on your face.
Book an appointment at the New Look store nearest you and leave with a pair of glasses that truly feels like you. 👓
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