Choosing glasses is, above all, a matter of balance. Face-shape styling (visagism) relies on a simple principle: your glasses should contrast with the shape of your face to create natural harmony. A round face? A frame with angles will balance it out. A square face? A softer shape will soften it.
But these rules are starting points, not certainties. Style, personality, hairstyle—all of these count too. And that is precisely why trying them on with human advice remains irreplaceable.
Identify your face shape
No special equipment is needed. Tie your hair back, look in a mirror in good lighting, and observe the main lines of your face.
Round or oval face
The contours are soft, with no sharp angles. A round face is wide and short, while an oval face is more elongated—but in both cases, the shapes are harmonious and work well with many frame styles.
What works well:
- Rectangular or geometric frames (they add structure)
- Oversized horizontal shapes (they visually lengthen the face)
- High bridges and wide temples
What to avoid:
- Very round frames that accentuate the roundness
- Small frames that may look disproportionate
Square or rectangular face
The jaw is defined, the forehead is wide, and the angles are pronounced. A rectangular face is simply more elongated than a square one, but the same advice applies.
What works well:
- Round or oval frames (they soften the angles)
- Butterfly shapes that are slightly flared upwards
- Rimless or semi-rimless frames
What to avoid:
- Overly angular frames that reinforce the geometry of the face
- Shapes that are too square or rectangular
Elongated oval face
This is the morphology considered the most versatile: the proportions are balanced, with no dominant features. Almost all frame shapes work.
What works well:
- Just about everything! It's time to explore
- Round, cat-eye, aviator, or geometric frames
- Original and bold shapes
Tip: Take advantage of this freedom to look for what suits you rather than what is "recommended."
What visagism doesn't tell you
Visagism rules provide a framework. But they don't take into account several elements that change everything:
- The size of the frame in relation to your face
- The position of your eyebrows—a frame that hides your brows completely changes your expression
- Your personal style—a "technically perfect" frame that doesn't feel like "you" will never be the right one
This is why Ekla opticians don't just apply a visagism grid. They take the time to analyze your morphology, your habits, and your style—and have you try on as many frames as necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are visagism rules absolute?
No. They are useful benchmarks to guide your choice, not obligations. If you like a "non-recommended" frame and it suits you, it's the right frame.
How do I know if a frame is the right size for me?
The frame should not exceed the width of your face. The temples should sit horizontally without pressing on your temples. And your eye should be centered in the lens—neither too high nor too low.
Can we test several styles before choosing at Ekla?
Yes, fittings are unlimited and pressure-free. The Ekla team is here to guide you until we find THE pair that suits you!
Do I need an appointment for a styling consultation?
You can walk into the store directly. An appointment simply guarantees you dedicated time with an optician.
In summary: good advice requires trying them on in-store
Visagism offers valuable leads. But finding the frame that really suits you happens in front of a mirror, with someone who takes the time to look at you and advise you.
At Ekla Paris, our opticians provide personalized styling advice: analysis of your morphology, unlimited fittings among over 500 independent designer frames, and support from start to finish—no pressure to buy, no upfront costs thanks to third-party payment accepted by all health insurance providers.
Choose Ekla if you are looking for:
- An original frame you won't see anywhere else
- Human, personalized advice without feeling rushed
- Zero upfront costs, with reimbursements managed from A to Z
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