How to go about choosing the right frames for your face shape

Some frame shapes generally suit men’s glasses while others are more associated with femininity. Fashion has of course evolved to a point where people of any identity can wear whatever they want, but there are still fairly obvious categories between men’s and women’s glasses in terms of size and classic shapes. However, there are plenty of brands and smaller producers creating unisex glasses frames that look great in men’s and women’s sizes/fits.

This article will put a spotlight on some of the best unisex eyeglass frames, along with the brands or fashion movements they’re associated with, so you can feel confident buying for yourself without being tied to traditional gender labels.

The Wayfarer

If we’re talking unisex sunglasses, the best example is probably a pair of Wayfarers. Designed by Ray-Ban in the 1950s, these shades (which are also a good shape for prescription lenses) have been iconic on faces of all kinds of decades.

• A bold, recognisable, trapezoidal frame
• Confident but understated
• Slightly rounded edges for balance
• Suitable for various face shapes

Wayfarers are versatile for all sorts of occasions, ideal for a simple retro beach fit or adding a cooler edge to some formalwear.

The Aviator

They might be a man movie mainstay, but Aviators can be stylish unisex spectacles, whether in their traditional reflective style or used as frames for clear lenses.

• The signature teardrop-lens shape softens angular features
• Thin metal frames add a sense of sophistication to the somewhat casual shape
• Great coverage with oversized lenses that suit many face shapes (heart & oval best)

These are another banger pair of Ray-Ban unisex sunglasses, perfect for men and women alike, whether on a sunny holiday or on a winter drive.

The round frame

Round frames have been a staple of unisex glasses since the swinging 1960s, with the rise of hippie and mod culture. Sometimes small, sometimes oversized, the round-framed lens has made its way onto the faces of men, women and everything in between for years.

• A soft, circular shape is ideal for contrasting with angular features
• It can be used to elicit more artistic, relaxed or intellectual aesthetic

Round glasses have some association with creativity and intellect – just think of John Lennon’s iconic look – and can be adapted with chunkier and thinner frames.

The rectangular frame

Rectangular games are popular for men and women alike, becoming a modern classic in sophisticated office settings. They’re a highly versatile shape with clean lines that fit with a wide variety of different outfits.

• Rectangular frames work to elongate round faces and add structure
• Horizontal emphasis helps to balance faces to look more defined

Thicker frames and bold colours can be used to make rectangular frames a more “friendly”

Style: Rectangular frames are often seen as professional and serious, making them a top choice for office and business wear. However, with thicker frames and bold colours, they can also be a fashionable and trendy accessory.

Tips for picking unisex glasses frames

As you can see, there are plenty of different options for frames that fit seamlessly with both male and female faces. Beyond understanding these iconic shapes, there are a few principles to keep in mind:

• Face shape should contrast frames, e.g., round faces benefit from rectangular frames, while square faces benefit from round frames
• Thickness in the frame will define the look – thinner frames are more subtle, while thicker acetate frames make bolder statements
• Colour and material should be selected to complement your eye colour and skin tone, with clear and bright coloured frames considered more eccentric choices

Now you’ve got this guidance, get out there and start shopping!