Oblong face shape: measurements and style guide
An oblong face is noticeably longer than it is wide, with a forehead, cheekbones and jaw of similar width.
Also called: long, rectangle.
How to spot the oblong face shape
- The face is at least one and a half times as long as the cheekbone width
- The forehead, cheekbones and jaw are similar in width
- The forehead and chin can both be tall
Calculator rule: Face length at least 1.45 times the cheekbone width, and not a heart or diamond shape. The four measurements are taken as described on the calculator page.
How to style it
For an oblong face, the aim is to shorten the length and add width. Fringes, volume at the sides and frames that are deeper than they are wide all reduce the sense of length. Styles that add height on top make the face look longer, so avoid them.
What works
- Fringes and bangs that shorten the forehead
- Waves, curls and volume at the sides that add width
- Oversized, round, or deep frames with a strong top bar
- Wide, rounded earrings and beards that are fuller at the sides than the chin
Balance out
- High volume on top and slicked-back styles that add height
- Long, straight, flat hair that hangs down the sides of the face
- Narrow frames that stretch the face further
- Long, pointed beards and long drop earrings that add more length
Style guides for the oblong face shape
- Best Hairstyles for oblongShorten the length and add width with fringes, waves and volume at the sides.
- Best Glasses for oblongFrames that are wide and deep balance a long face, so go bigger than you might think.
- Best Earrings for oblongWide earrings add width and make the face look shorter.
- Best Beard Styles for oblongA beard that is fuller at the sides than at the chin adds width and shortens the face.
Common questions
Should I avoid long hair if I have an oblong face?
Not if you add width. Long layers, waves or curls with volume at the sides balance the length. It is long, straight and flat hair that adds to it.
Do fringes always suit an oblong face?
Often, yes, because they cover part of the forehead and visually shorten the face. A straight or curtain fringe both work; choose whichever fits your hair type.