We’ve all been there: you spot a gorgeous pair of earrings at a shop that ends up looking somewhat off-kilter or less appealing once you put them on. Oftentimes, this is because they don’t suit the shape of your face. Choosing earrings that flatter your face shape can take an outfit from zero to hero. Doing so, however, is easier said than done.
Every face is slightly different, and not everyone will fall neatly into a face shape category. Still, there are common facial features − such as a strong jawline, large forehead or pointy chin − that can affect the overall look when you put on a particular style of earrings. Knowing which of your facial features are most prominent is important when trying to highlight the best parts of your face, or soften the areas you’re less fond of.
Here are some tips and tricks for selecting earrings that flatter your face shape!
Oval Face Shape
Neither too long nor too wide, an oval face shape is fairly easy to style. Though virtually every type of jewelry will suit an oval face shape, studs, hoops and drop earrings are particularly flattering. Lengthier pieces accentuate the neckline, while dainty designs bring attention to the softness of the face shape.
Alternatively, adding sharp edges, such as triangle-shaped earrings, can dramatically offset the face’s natural curves. An oval face shape is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment!
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Round Face Shape
A round face is circular in appearance and completely symmetrical. Full cheeks and a rounded chin are some of the common characteristics associated with the face shape. Some accessories better suit a round face shape than others.
For those with shorter faces, long earrings that dangle help to elongate the appearance of your face. Angular and geometric jewelry also provide some contrast to the roundness of the face.
Avoid earrings with horizontal lines as they may make the face appear wider than normal. Likewise, hoops and round earrings draw eyes across your face in a horizontal direction. Instead, opt for straight, vertical lines and sharp edges to mitigate this effect.
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Square Face Shape
Like the round face shape, the square face shape tends to be symmetrical, albeit with a boxier appearance. A square face shape typically features an angular jawline, sharp cheekbones and/or a pronounced forehead.
These facial features can be softened with rounded, curved lines – circular studs, hoops and huggies will do the trick. Long and slim dangly earrings may also help soften a square jaw and elongate the face. Avoid chunky, angular jewelry that can make a square face appear too boxy.
Those with a particularly angular jawline may wish to avoid busy earrings that draw attention to the jawline. Opt instead for simple, minimalist chains.
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Heart Face Shape
A heart-shaped face is characterized by a wide forehead and cheeks, as well as a strong jawline and narrow chin. People with a heart-shaped face may try wider earrings that draw attention towards the neckline, balancing out the upper face area. Hoop earrings also flatter the heart-shaped face, as they add width to the lower part of the face. Triangular and teardrop-shaped earrings, which are wider at the bottom than the top, are also particularly effective at adding more fullness to the lower part of the face. Small studs should be avoided, as they may make the face appear top-heavy.
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Diamond Face Shape
A diamond-shaped face is narrow at the forehead and wide at the cheeks before tapering again at the chin. This face shape benefits from accessories that draw attention towards the eyes and forehead, or the narrow chin.
Teardrop or chandelier earrings that are wider at the bottom than the top are great options, as they counter the narrower areas of the face while creating the illusion of fullness. Hoop and drop earrings are also flattering for the diamond face shape, as they add width to the forehead and accentuate the cheekbones. Stud earrings with a wider base also work well to create the illusion of a wider face.
Avoid earrings that are wider at the top than the bottom, as they emphasize the narrower forehead and may make the face appear out of balance. Long, thin earrings won’t work either, as they elongate the face even more.
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Long Face Shape
A long face is typically longer than it is wide, with a narrow chin and forehead. To balance out a long face, wear earrings that add width to the lower half of the face.
Bold and large earring shapes help to disguise face length by adding width. Dangly designs, studs with a wide base, drop earrings and hoops are all perfect for the long face shape as they help create the illusion of a wider face and balance out the length. Ear cuffs and climbers are also effective at adding volume.
Avoid long, thin earrings, as they elongate the face even more. Instead, opt for wider, shorter earrings that add width to the lower part of the face.
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