Our fashion editor’s guide to finding the best frames for your face shape – from prescription glasses to holiday shades

Figure out your face shape

If you’re not sure which frame suits you, first work out your face shape. Compare the width of your forehead, cheekbones and jaw in the mirror. A square face has a similar width to the forehead, cheekbones and jaw, while a round face has cheekbones wider than the forehead or jawline. A diamond-shaped face has a narrow forehead and jaw, with the cheekbones the widest point. Got it? Now choose your look!

OVERSIZED: best for diamond faces

Balance your facial proportions with huge 1970s styles, like Jane Fonda’s famous butterfly-shaped Christian Dior 2056 pair. They should be large enough to shadow half of your face – the bigger the better with this trend. The extra coverage is ideal for holidays, too. Just throw on a floppy film star-style hat to complete the look.

CAT’S EYE: best for round faces

If you have a moon-shaped face, try this angular feline silhouette. Daphnée Duchatel of French eyewear brand Jimmy Fairly says, ‘Sharp angles break up roundness by elongating and softening the face,’ and adds, ‘Skinny 90s styles are back.’ The brand’s Pippa pair in black is so popular it has a waitlist. Try the tortoiseshell version (below).

METAL: best for everyone

Once considered to be frames that aged their wearers, today’s metal specs are modern and lightweight, making them a good choice for minimalists. And because they won’t overpower or clash with your features, they work for all face shapes. Low-key and refined, they’re a good essential to have in the locker.

TINTED: best for everyone

No longer reserved for the hen do, the festival or the dressing-up box, rose-tinted, orange-tinged, cool-blue and even green-glazed glasses are on the menu this summer. If they look like something a young David Bowie might wear, you’re on the right track. Find the frame that suits your face shape and get playful with the colour of the lens.

DIRECTOR: diamond and square faces

Thick, heavy-set frames offset the length of the face and angular or heavy jawlines. I like to call these ‘director specs’, as they add an air of gravitas and creativity to every outfit you pair them with. The bold, squared-off shape in tortoiseshell amps up a casual white T-shirt and jeans, and complements a tailored office outfit.

AVIATOR: best for square faces

These slim metallic frames with their soft lines balance angular features and offset a strong jaw. Ray-Ban’s black unisex style, worn by Top Gun’s Maverick, is still a bestseller, but the high street offers a range of tones.

COLOUR: best for everyone

Looking for a total refresh? Colour-block frames will lift a tired wardrobe and zhoozh up neutral looks. They’re just as effective as a slick of coral lipstick or a great handbag. TV presenter Prue Leith is the queen of rainbow specs – take her cue and coordinate yours with your clothes. Match them to bright jackets, occasion dresses or jewellery in the same shade.