Glasses Frame Shapes Guide: From Classics to Unique Picks

There are many factors to consider when choosing your next type of glasses, but deciding on which frames to get is often the most fun part of the process. In addition to their functional purpose, a new pair of glasses can tie together an outfit, enhance your facial features, or even help express your personality.

When it comes to frame shape, you may opt to choose one that matches your preferences or style. But glasses frame shapes also have their own history and personality, and understanding your options can help you make the best decision for your needs.

Common Frame Shapes

Before we get into how to choose the right frames, let’s take a closer look at some of the common options you’ll encounter while browsing.

Round

Round frames can be a major statement. They are notoriously difficult to pull off, but for those bold enough to try, they exude confidence, sophistication, and intellectual spirit. Simple, round wire frames carry a certain classic charm and have made a comeback in recent years. Thicker, round plastic frames really capture the shape’s boldness, especially when they feature a pop of color.

If you’re looking to wear your confidence with style, consider our Kepler frames. Available in several exciting colors like Emerald Crystal and Soft Slate, these round frames perfectly blend together vintage appeal with contemporary design.

Square

Square frames are another option with old-school vibes, but one that’s a bit more forgiving than their round counterparts. Certain square frames can be brash and youthful—the classic thick, black square design is a great example of this. On the other hand, tortoise-shell brown square frames may suggest a more mature, academic lifestyle.

Our Ariel frames are the best of both worlds. Featuring sleek design, Ariel is available in dark Eclipse and vibrant Burnt Caramel Tortoise, as well as other colors to help you capture the exact aesthetic you’re looking for.

Rectangular

Where round and square frames can have added gravitas baked in, rectangular frames are a popular, safer choice. Rectangle frames work well for most people; therefore, most providers offer a wide selection of rectangle frames, allowing you to find a style that suits your needs and personality.

If the modern, professional design of simple  rectangular frames is your style, our Lee frames are a great fit. If an unapologetic, individualistic design is more your speed, try the Michel frames which come in exciting color choices like Midnight Blue Tortoise.

Oval

Oval frames have similar characteristics to rectangular frames—they’re conservative and sleek while still offering some design freedom. They’re also a great compromise between the boldness of round frames and the sharpness of square frames.

If you’re looking for the versatility of oval frames with a timeless design, try our Miro frames. Featuring the classic, wayfarer style, these frames come in a variety of colors to help you refine your look.

Browline

Browline frames are inspired by mid-20th century fashion, and it’s not hard to spot the classic charm in the design. Within this comes notes of stoicism and nostalgia—two qualities that have led to this throwback style making a resurgence in recent years.

For the quintessential browline design, look no further than our Dewey frames. For a bit of a play on the traditional browline design, our Theo frames are also a great choice.

Aviators

Aviator frames are an iconic design that has stood the test of time. Traditionally thought of as sunglasses, Aviator frames have also made a comeback as everyday eyeglasses as well. These frames can help express your adventurous side while providing classic, vintage appeal. And because of their nearly universal fit, they’re a great way for anyone to make a statement with their glasses.

Our Crosby frames beautifully capture the roots of the design while also adding a bit of contemporary flair—the frames come in several unique colors including blush and sky blue.

Cat-eye

If you’re really looking to make a statement, cat-eye frames may be the fit for you. These frames are synonymous with flair and mystique. Categorized by their elongated, flattened top arch and larger, pronounced areas at each of the top edges, cat-eye glasses come in a variety of styles for both men and women.

Geometric

For a truly individualistic design, you may opt for geometric frames. This classification includes unique shapes such as hexagons as well as other, non-traditional designs. Geometric frames are for the truly bold and fearless—their against-the-grain design perfectly captures the free-spirited nature of the one wearing them.

What to Consider When Choosing Frame Shape

After taking a look at some of the common frame shapes, it’s clear that each shape has its own history, personality, and functionality. So how do you choose the right one?

Let’s take a look at a couple of the top areas to consider.

Style & Personality

First and foremost, your style and personality can guide which frame shape you choose. This can be as simple as choosing a frame that you think looks nice, but it can also mean going with a shape that captures your essence. As seen above, each shape has its own qualities that extend to the wearer, so choosing a style based on these traits can help you express yourself.

For example, if you’re bold and daring, you may choose to express this with brightly colored cat-eye frames. On the other hand, if you’re calm and pragmatic, a more neutral, sleek frame shape would suit you best—consider a simple, rectangle design.

Face Shape

Face shape also plays a huge role in deciding which frame shape to go with. Certain frames pair better with certain shapes—generally, this comes down to how the frames contrast your features. For example, if you have a round face, then an angular shape such as square or rectangular may be best for you.

Get the Best Frames From Hubble

Choosing your frame shape is one of the best parts about getting new glasses. It’s the perfect opportunity to express yourself through your glasses—and Hubble is here to help. Our extensive lineup of frames come in a variety of shapes, colors, and styles, ensuring you get the exact pair that you’ve been searching for.

And when it comes to glasses, getting the best lenses is critical. With Hubble, you get high-quality lenses featuring a variety of coatings—including anti-scratch and anti-reflective—so that you know your glasses will perform as good as they look.

Getting new glasses is fun—so getting started today by checking out Hubble’s men’s and women’s glasses.