It can be hard to find a pair of glasses that complements your face shape. Whether you’re into sleek, minimal frames or statement-making aviator glasses, there’s a perfect style for everyone — you just have to find it.
Choosing the right aviator glasses for your face shape is key. After all, this style of sunnies has been popular for decades and isn’t going anywhere soon. Here’s the thing, though: Not all aviators will look great on all face shapes. That’s why we recommend that you take a few factors into account before investing in a pair of shades.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the right aviator glasses for your face shape. From figuring out which face shaping you have to selecting frames that suit your features best, we’ve got you covered!
What is the History of Aviator Glasses?
Aviator glasses have been around for decades. They were first developed in 1936 by Bausch & Lomb for pilots to protect their eyes while flying. However, the earliest form of aviator glasses was made by the American Optical Company (c. 1876). The first aviator style of glasses was the U.S. Army Air Corps D, otherwise known as the Top Gun aviators, which became popularized in the 1980s.
Today, aviator glasses remain an incredibly popular eyewear style despite their long history of military roots and association with vintage fashion. They are beloved for their versatile look and classic design — and they’re not just for pilots anymore! Whether you’re looking to add a touch of heritage to your look or want to make a statement with your eyewear, aviators can be an excellent choice to suit any face shape and style aesthetic.
Different Types of Aviator Glasses
Now that you’ve decided that a pair of aviator glasses is the right look for you, it’s time to think about what shape and style will look best on your face. Popular brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Lensmart and Tom Ford offer aviator glasses in various shapes and styles. From the classic teardrop shape to the more modern squared-off version, there is a multitude of options available.
When choosing from among the variety of aviator glasses available, consider your face shape. Square faces tend to look great with classic teardrop-shaped frames, while heart shapes should opt for larger lenses and thin frames for contrast. Oval faces will also benefit from larger lenses but can also pull off a more rounded shape.
Finding the Right Aviator Glasses for Your Face Shape
It’s important to find aviator glasses that work with your face shape. They should highlight the features you want to bring attention to, balance out disproportionate features, and be comfortable on your face.
Rounder Faces
Aviator glasses look great on round faces, as they add angles and structure that can make the face look thinner and sharper. Oblong frames are particularly flattering for round faces since they can make them look narrower. You just have to take into account the size — larger frames help balance out a round face while smaller ones might do the opposite.
Square Faces
People with square faces should try to keep everything in balance — square frames should emphasize those square angles while curving at the sides to create an oval shape. You could also pick smaller lenses for a gentler look. The point is not to take away from any angles but rather harmonize them with oval or circular lenses that are wider than they are tall.
Heart-Shaped Faces
Aviator glasses and cat-eye frames complement the outline of a heart-shaped face well, as they usually taper towards the chin area, detracting from its pointiness. If you’re looking for more drama, you could also go for larger aviators with a double bridge design for an eye-catching accessory!
The Benefits & Drawbacks of Wearing Aviator Glasses
When it comes to aviator glasses, there are lots of benefits and a few drawbacks to be aware of. On the plus side, these glasses provide excellent coverage and block out most of the harmful UV rays, making them a great style for sunny days. They also come in a variety of shades and styles, so you should be able to find something that suits your face shape no matter what. Plus, due to their large lenses, they can reduce eye fatigue and glare from the sun — which is great news for all of us who spend too much time staring at screens!
On the other hand, aviators do have some drawbacks. For one thing, because they draw attention to your eyes and face shape, they can highlight any imperfections in your features if you’re not careful with sizing. And while they’re lightweight enough not to cause any long-term damage to your ears or nose bridge with extended wear, they can be a little uncomfortable if you plan on wearing them for long periods of time.
Tips for Selecting the Right Frame Size
Finding the right aviator glasses for your face shape doesn’t have to feel daunting. Some simple sizing tips can help you find a frame that fits your face perfectly:
Width
Your frame should not be wider than the width of your face at your temples. And if you have a rounder face, opt for a rectangular frame — it’ll help elongate it!
Height
The top of your frames should be no higher than the line of your eyebrows and any metal detailing should be kept in proportion to your features. Plus, you’ll want to make sure that the lower edge of the frames doesn’t sit on your cheeks. That’s what we call an “eyebrow sweep” and it can be flattering and slimming for any face shape.
When in doubt, shop around for options or consult an optician before you buy anything. An expert can give you personalized advice that’ll help you pick out frames that are easy on the eyes — literally!
How to Care for Your Aviator Glasses
Taking good care of your aviator glasses is important, both from a style standpoint and from a practical one. Keeping your glasses clean and in good condition will help them last longer, so here are a few easy tips to keep in mind:
Cleaning and Wiping Down Lenses
To wipe down lenses, use a microfiber cleaning cloth. These can be found at any optical shop, or if you don’t have one handy, use a soft cloth made from cotton or another natural fibre. Never use paper towels or tissues — they could scratch the lenses.
Regularly Cleaning with Soap
For heavier dirt and grime, apply just a dab of dish soap (not dish detergent) or other mild soap to the lenses and gently rub it in with your fingers. Then rinse off the soap with warm water. This should be done daily for optimal results.
Keeping Your Aviator Glasses Protected
When not wearing your glasses, keep them in a storage case to protect them from damage. If you need to clean off grit or oil which has settled on the lenses, simply rinse them with warm water—this will also help protect the finish of your glasses over time.
Aviator glasses are a classic and stylish way to protect your eyes from the sun. Finding the perfect pair for you should consider the shape of your face and your personal style. If you’re looking for a timeless look, go for aviators with a classic double bridge, or for a more modern look, try aviators with a bold bridge and matte finish.
No matter what style you choose, make sure you’re choosing a pair that suits your face shape and complements your features. Invest in a good pair of quality glasses, and you’ll have a timeless pair of aviators you can enjoy for years.