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Have you ever wondered how iconic Hollywood actors wear perfect sunglasses?

Those didn’t happen by accident. Each pair of shades were carefully chosen based on its shape and style.

The costume designer knew exactly how to send the right message based on which style of sunglasses they added.

You, too, can learn how to craft the perfect image with sunglasses.

Choose Sunglasses by Face Shape

Knowing your face’s shape and size is the basic factor in determining the best sunglasses type.

different men's face types for sunglasses Rather than trying on millions of pairs of frames at random, let your face shape help narrow down what looks good.

You can avoid much of the guesswork in picking the ideal sunglasses for yourself by matching frames to your face shape.

If you don’t know what shape to consider your face, ask a friend to help you decide.

Round

A round face is all curves and has no angles. Wide cheekbones are one definitive trademark of a round face.

round face shape

You will want frames that minimize, not accentuate, your cheekbones. Your sunglasses should add some angle to our face, rather than contributing more curves.

You can slim and elongate your face with frames that are large and sit high on your temples.

Round faces are best complimented by square, rectangle, or D-shape frames.

Oval

Oval shaped faces are curvy like round faces though not quite as pronounced. They are a softer, longer version of a round face.

oval face shape

You don’t want lenses that will hang low; this would only accentuate an already long face.

Frames that are too large will hide an oval face’s facial symmetry, so stick to smaller frames. They should cover the face from the eyebrows to the cheekbones.

Aviator or D-frame sunglasses work best for this face shape.

Square

A square face is defined by a strong jawline, with a wide forehead and cheekbones. The perimeters are very defined.

square face shape

Square faces want to include come curves in their sunglasses to add balance to their features.

It is probably best to stick to smaller frames to not overwhelm the wearer’s characteristics.

Aviators, round, or D-shape frames are the best bets for a square-shaped face.

Heart

If you have a narrow jaw with a broader forehead, you have a heart-shaped face.

heart face shape

It is best to avoid large frames, stick with small or even medium frames.

You want frames that will elongate your face. Lenses with high arms, such as D-shape or medium-sized aviators, will accomplish this.

Be sure you don’t pick ones that extend past your face; conversely, make sure they aren’t too far in. The frames should stop right around your temples.

Rectangle

Rectangle faces are long and slim without many angles. Because of the long outline of this face, it is best to gravitate toward shorter lenses.

rectangle face shape

You can add some width to your face with wayfarer or rectangular lenses.

Square shaped frames are all right if the frames are not too sharp; there should be a slight curve. Avoid small frames at all costs; they will look lost on your face.

Rectangle faces are best represented with round or aviator frames.

Diamond

A chiseled chin and wide cheekbones are the hallmarks of a diamond-shaped face.

diamond face shape

Keep the edges of your lenses soft but structured to balance your broad cheekbones. You should avoid round frames. Rounded bottoms, however, will soften your narrow chin.

A D-shape lens or rimless sunglasses would qualify for this. These offer softness on the bottom half and more concrete shaping at the top.

Again, work to complement your cheekbones by avoiding wide frames.

Best Sunglasses Types for Men in Suits

Sunglasses often signal “fun in the sun” even though they are more than that. They are an important tool for comfort and for protecting your eyes. 

There are a lot of sunglasses types produced out there, but not every type looks good with a suit. Don’t detract from your professional look with poorly chosen sunglasses.

Here are some of the most popular styles and how to find the right shape for your face.

Wayfarers

This classic shape is among the most iconic sunglasses. They speak to a universal cool factor and simply seem effortless. They are instantly recognizable as shorthand for chic.

wayfarer sunglasses

Persol sunglasses are the most popular wayfarers out there. They are the tops in elegance.

You might recognize these as Steve McQueen’s choice of eyewear in The Thomas Crown Affair. And nobody does cool like Steve McQueen.

Tom Ford also has perfected the wayfarer frame. These are a bit pricy but very durable. Not to mention very cool and fashionable.

Wayfarers come in a wide array of colors and customization. It is incredibly easy to match any one of these babies to your look.

A simple black or tortoiseshell frame is the most popular and probably the best choice with most outfits.

Wayfarers are most flattering on oval and rectangular shaped faces.

Aviators

It should be no surprise to learn that these frames were originally designed for U.S. fighter pilots.

aviator sunglasses

Fortunately, you don’t need to enlist in the Air Force to rock a pair of aviator sunglasses.

They have become so mainstream that most people can instantly recognize this shape, making it one of the most popular styles.

These metal frames are sleek and minimal. They create a clean and simple line, resulting in a style that is both classic and classy.

Aviator sunglasses are versatile, completing nearly any look.

Aviators are best suited for square, oval, and heart-shaped faces.

Retro-Square Sunglasses

These cool cat sunglasses have a box-like lens shape. They are recognizable by their very thick frames and arms.

retro-square sunglasses

Retro-square sunglasses come in a wide variety of designs and prints and are flattering for most face shapes.

This style is very fashion-forward and will dramatically increase your hip quotient.

Retro-square sunglasses are flattering on most faces but are best on oblong or rectangular shapes.

Browline

These sunglasses offer a very retro option. With a thick frame across the top of the lenses but a thin rim around the bottom, they really stand out.

browline sunglasses

Browline sunglasses create a powerful, masculine look. Just like the name implies, the thick top frame imitates the eyebrow, so they need to sit just right.

If too much eyebrow is exposed above the frame, then that pair is too small on your face. You should have only the tops of your eyebrow arches showing for a good fit.

Browline sunglasses are an excellent fit for oval and diamond shape faces.

Clubmaster

Clubmasters are a variation of the Browline style. They are designed with a bolder upper frame, usually made of plastic, and a bridge between the two lenses, usually made of metal.

clubmaster sunglasses

A pair of clubmasters are always stylish, contemporary, and noticeable. Although they might look good with a casual wardrobe, a suit can be the perfect addition to a nice pair of clubmasters.

Clubmaster sunglasses are best for oval, round, and rectangle face shapes.

Semi-Rimless / Round

Semi-rimless round sunglasses are another retro throwback.

semi-rimless sunglasses

They appear as a combination of round, browline, and aviator frames, creating something trendy and fashionable.

Semi-rimless sunglasses manage to look both stylish and professional at the same tie. These offer the durability of a strong frame together with the lightweight of frameless.

Semi-rimless sunglasses suit people with square, diamond, or heart-shaped faces best.

Round

Quick – who do you picture when you hear round sunglasses mentioned? Yeah, me too. But we don’t need to leave such funky lenses to history and John Lennon.

round sunglasses

If you are looking for a little something to help you stand out, round sunglasses are a super-easy way to do that.

There are many varieties of round sunglasses. The name only describes the lens; the frame can take a variety of shapes.

Round sunglasses are well suited for oval or square faces.

Things to Consider When Matching Your Sunglasses with Your Suit

You now have the most critical aspects of picking the right pair of shades.

There are still a few things that are key to making sure you have the right pair. Here are a few final thoughts on sunglasses.

Fit Your Suit Correctly

No amount of accessorizing in the world will save an ill-fitting suit. A poor choice in sunglasses can ruin a great suit.

30 suit basics on how to fit your suit

But did you know a poor choice in a suit can ruin great sunglasses? Bring your A-game; make sure your suit sits just right on you.

Choose Sunglasses Types That Fit Your Face Shape

Determine your face shape to determine the shape your sunglasses should be.

jake gyllenhaal matches semi-rimless sunglasses

A poor fit of sunglasses will have a comical effect. Opt for the opposite shape of your face as a general rule to find the most flattering look for you.

Opt for High-Quality Frames and Lens Material Sunglasses

Frame shapes aren’t the only importance of eyewear. Well-made frames go a long way toward comfort and durability.

Bruce Willis wears a pair of clubmasters

Plus, good quality versus poor quality is easy to spot. Quality lenses also offer better eye protection.

Sunglasses Color Should Match/Look Good with Your Suit

Think of matching your sunglasses to your suit color the same way you do your tie. They don’t need to be the same color, but they should complement it.

James Bond (Daniel Craig) in a light-grey suit and black wayfarers

Stick to neutral colors for the safest bet. Are you going with metal frames? Be sure it matches any other metal accessories you are wearing.

Sunglasses NOT to Wear with a Suit

For the love of God, please no sports glasses, wraparounds, or glasses with logos. And save the bright-colored frames for the beach.

Alexander Stoicoff

Author: Alexander Stoicoff

Hi, I’m Alex, and I’ve studied and specialized in styling in Rome. Through my writing, I want to help men dress well and learn the purpose and significance of suits and other formal attire. My final goal is to make men more confident in their wardrobe choice and life in general.