Face shapes it suits
Which face shapes stylists say a style flatters. A guide, not a rule: wear what you like.
Oval faces
An oval face is longer than it is wide, widest at the cheekbones, with a jaw that narrows to a softly rounded chin. Stylists say most frames, beards and brow shapes sit easily on it, so advice is usually about taste rather than balance
Round faces
A round face is about as wide as it is long, with full cheeks, a soft jawline and few angles. Round faces are common in children everywhere, and many people keep the shape as adults
Square faces
A square face has a broad forehead, wide cheekbones and a strong jaw with clear corners, all of similar width. Stylists who want to soften the angles suggest round or oval frames and rounded beard lines; those who like the structure keep lines crisp
Heart-shaped faces
A heart-shaped face is widest at the forehead and cheekbones and narrows to a slim or pointed chin, often with a widow's peak. Opticians suggest frames that balance the broad brow, and barbers a beard that adds width low on the face
Diamond faces
A diamond face is widest at high cheekbones, with a narrower forehead and a narrow, often pointed chin. It is the least common shape in most stylists' counts
Oblong faces
An oblong face is long and narrow, with forehead, cheekbones and jaw close in width, so the sides run fairly straight. When the jaw is angular, some guides call it rectangular
Triangle faces
A triangle face, sometimes called pear-shaped, is narrowest at the forehead and widest at the jaw: the reverse of a heart shape. Opticians suggest frames with a strong upper rim to add width at the top, and barbers keep beards close at the jaw
Most faces
Some styles are said to suit most faces: they are balanced enough, light enough or simply adaptable enough to sit on any shape. Stubble, a well-kept moustache, rimless frames and kohl-lined eyes are common examples