When you think of sunglasses, style comes to mind first. But in a city like Dubai, where the sun is blazing nearly every day of the year, sunglasses are about more than just fashion. They’re a must-have for comfort, UV protection and daily function. The real key? Finding a pair that suits your face shape perfectly.
The right sunglasses can accentuate your best features, balance your proportions and help you stand out or blend in depending on the look you want. In this guide we’ll walk you through how to match your sunglasses to your face shape, give you local style advice for Dubai’s fashion crowd and share where to shop for the perfect pair.
Why Face Shape Matters When Choosing Sunglasses
Choosing the right pair of sunglasses isn’t just about following trends; it’s about balance, comfort and bringing out the best in you. Your face shape plays a big role in how well a pair of sunglasses will look and feel on you.
Here’s why face shape matters when picking the perfect shades:
1. Flattering Fit = Instant Style Upgrade
The wrong frames can overpower your face or make your features look unbalanced. But the right pair? It enhances your natural structure, sharpens angles, softens curves or brings harmony to your look. For example:
- A square face looks good with rounded or oval frames that soften sharp angles.
- A round face is complemented by rectangular or angular styles that add definition.
- Heart shaped faces look great with bottom heavy or cat eye frames that balance a broader forehead.
When the proportions are right your sunglasses don’t just protect your eyes; they upgrade your whole look.
2. Comfort That Lasts All Day
Frames that don’t match your face shape often pinch, slide or sit unevenly. This can lead to headaches, pressure marks or constant readjusting especially in hot or active environments. The right shape ensures the sunglasses rest comfortably on your nose bridge and hug your temples without feeling too tight or too loose.
3. Better UV and Glare Protection
A good fit, influenced by your face shape, also affects how much sun protection you get. Sunglasses that match your contours can shield your eyes and the delicate skin around them more effectively, reducing exposure to harsh UV rays, wind and glare from different angles.
4. Everywhere You Go
Beach, driving, meeting friends for lunch on the roof, wearing sunglasses that match your face shape makes you feel more together. Confidence shows and it starts with wearing something that’s you.
How to Determine Your Face Shape
Pull your hair back and look in the mirror. You can:
- Draw your face shape on the mirror with a washable marker.
- Use a measuring tape to measure the width of your forehead, cheekbones and jawline and the length of your face.
- Or, try one of several free apps that will tell you your face shape with a selfie.
Once you’ve done that, compare your face to the most common shapes below:
- Oval: Balanced proportions, narrower jawline than forehead
- Round: Full cheeks, same width and length, soft jawline
- Square: Strong jaw, broad forehead, same length and width
- Heart: Broad forehead, high cheekbones, narrow chin
- Diamond: Narrow forehead and jaw, broad cheekbones
- Oblong: Longer than wide, straight cheek lines
Best Sunglasses for Each Face Shape
Now that you know your face shape, here’s what works best for each:
Oval Face
- Good for: Almost everything! Oval faces are the most versatile.
- Try: Aviators, cat-eye, wayfarers, oversized
- Avoid: Big frames that overwhelm your face
Round Face
- Good for: Angular frames add definition and structure
- Try: Square, rectangular, wayfarer
- Avoid: Round frames that mirror your face and make you look rounder
Square Face
- Good for: Frames that soften your jawline and forehead
- Try: Round, oval, aviator
- Avoid: Boxey or thick angular frames that make you look square
Heart-Shaped Face
- Good for: Styles that balance your wide forehead and narrow chin
- Try: Cat-eye, browline, rimless
- Avoid: Top heavy or big frames that make your forehead look even wider
Diamond Face
- Good for: Frames that soften your cheekbones and add width to your forehead and jaw
- Try: Oval, rimless, wraparound
- Avoid: Narrow, boxy frames that make your cheekbones look wider
Oblong or Rectangular Face
- Good for: Sunglasses that add width and break up your face
- Try: Oversized, wraparound, square
- Avoid: Small or short frames that make your face look longer
Dubai Style Tips: Fashion Meets Function
In Dubai, sunglasses are not just a necessity; they’re part of the fashion code. Whether you’re brunching at a rooftop lounge, exploring Alserkal Avenue or relaxing at Kite Beach, your shades say a lot about your personal style.
Here are some Dubai-specific tips:
Trendy but you: Fashion changes fast here, but pick a style that feels like you. The best sunglasses complement your vibe, not just your outfit.
Go Big: Oversized frames, geometric shapes and statement colours are in. Mirrored lenses and gold details are still favourites.
Think Practical: Polarized lenses to cut glare from roads, water and sand. Full UV protection is a must.
Material Matters: Look for lightweight and breathable materials like acetate or titanium. Nose pads should be adjustable and non-slip to stay comfortable in Dubai’s heat.
Where to Buy Sunglasses in Dubai
Dubai is full of world-class shopping destinations for every style and budget. Whether you’re after designer brands or niche boutique styles, you’ll find it here.
Major Malls
- Dubai Mall: Flagship stores for Ray-Ban, Prada, Oakley and more
- Mall of the Emirates: Luxury to affordable options across multiple retailers
- City Centre Mirdif / Deira / Al Zahia: Great selection and frequent promotions
Top Retailers
- Sunglass Hut
- Magrabi
- Rivoli EyeZone
- Optivision
Boutique Stores
- City Walk: Great for curated, fashion-forward collections
- Jumeirah Beach Road: High-end, independent opticians with exclusive pieces
Online Options
- Eyewa
- Amazon.ae
- Lens.me
- Namshi
Most platforms offer virtual try-on tools and easy return policies, so you can shop online.
Final Tips for Choosing the Right Sunglasses
- Always Check for UV Protection: Look for labels that say 100% UVA and UVB protection.
- Comfort is key: Make sure your sunglasses sit well on your nose and ears. Light and snug (but not tight) is the way to go for long wear.
- Try Before You Buy: Whether in-store or using a virtual app, try how frames look on your face.
- Balance is everything: Choose frames that complement your features. If your frames are too bold or too minimal, they will detract from your face.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What sunglasses are best for a round face?
Angular frames like rectangle, square, and wayfarers are best for round faces. They add structure and help slim the overall appearance of the face. Avoid round or overly curved frames, which can make the face appear fuller.
Are oversized sunglasses suitable for every face shape?
Oversized sunglasses work best for oblong or oval face shapes, but they can overwhelm smaller or more angular faces. It’s important to ensure the frames are proportional to your face, offering coverage without looking too large.
What should I look for in sunglasses for the Dubai climate?
In Dubai’s hot and sunny climate, choose sunglasses with 100% UV protection, polarized lenses for glare reduction, and lightweight, breathable materials. Non-slip nose pads are also useful for long wear in high temperatures.
Can I wear mirrored sunglasses with any face shape?
Yes, mirrored lenses are a style choice that can be worn by any face shape. Just make sure the frame style suits your face, whether it’s aviators, cat-eye, or square. Mirrored lenses are also great for Dubai’s intense sunlight.
Where can I buy quality sunglasses in Dubai?
Dubai offers many options, including popular retail stores like Sunglass Hut, Magrabi, Rivoli EyeZone, and Optivision. Malls such as Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates carry both luxury and affordable brands. Boutique opticians also offer exclusive styles.
Is UV protection really necessary in sunglasses?
Yes, UV protection is essential. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can damage your eyes and increase the risk of conditions like cataracts. Always look for sunglasses labeled with 100% UVA and UVB protection.
Do virtual try-on apps really help in choosing sunglasses?
Yes, virtual try-on apps can be very helpful. They let you see how different styles look on your face before purchasing, especially if you’re shopping online or unsure about what suits your features best.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sunglasses isn’t just about being on trend; it’s about finding frames that fit your face, your lifestyle and your environment. In Dubai that means balancing high fashion with high functionality.
Know your face shape, try different styles and invest in a pair that’s comfortable and protective. Whether you’re poolside, on a desert drive or just strolling downtown, the right sunglasses will elevate your look and protect your eyes all year round.
Take your time, try things out and most importantly choose the pair that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
