Having an oblong face shape means your face is longer than it is wide, with straight sides and a slightly rounded chin. The oblong face is often mistaken for an oval face shape, but they differ in proportions. If you have an oblong face shape, you can enhance your features with the right hairstyles, makeup techniques, and accessories that bring balance and harmony to your overall appearance.
In this guide, we will dive into the details of the oblong face shape, what it means, and how you can work with it. Whether you’re looking for the perfect hairstyle or makeup techniques, we’ll give you all the tips you need to flatter your face shape. Let’s get started!
Key Points to Remember:
- An oblong face shape is longer than it is wide, with straight sides and a slightly rounded chin.
- The right hairstyle can help shorten the appearance of the face and add width.
- Makeup techniques, such as contouring, can balance out the length of an oblong face.
What is an Oblong Face Shape?
An oblong face shape is one of the more distinct face shapes and is characterized by its elongated proportions. If your face has this shape, your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are typically similar in width, and your face appears longer than it is wide. The chin might be rounded, and the sides of the face are usually straight.
It is important to note that an oblong face shape is often confused with an oval face. However, while both are longer than they are wide, an oblong face typically has more angular or straight sides, whereas an oval face tends to have softer, rounded sides.
The goal with styling an oblong face shape is to add balance and width to the face, making it appear more proportional. The right haircuts, makeup techniques, and accessories can achieve this effect by drawing attention to the features that will help reduce the length of the face.
What Are the Best Hairstyles for an Oblong Face Shape?
When choosing the right hairstyle for an oblong face shape, the key is to add volume to the sides of the face while minimizing the length. Here are a few hairstyles that work well with an oblong face:
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Soft Waves or Curls
Soft waves or curls help create volume around the sides of the face, which can make the face appear wider and shorter. These types of hairstyles add dimension and frame the face nicely, avoiding any extra emphasis on length. -
Bangs
If you want to break up the length of your face, bangs are an excellent option. Soft, side-swept bangs or blunt bangs can cover part of your forehead and make your face appear more balanced. Avoid overly long bangs that can elongate your face further. -
Chin-Length Bob
A chin-length bob works wonders for oblong faces because it cuts off the length and adds volume at the sides. This hairstyle creates a wider silhouette, making the face look more proportionate. -
Layered Cuts
Layered haircuts with volume at the sides of the head can also complement an oblong face. Layers around the cheekbones and jawline will add width to the face and soften its overall appearance.
Here’s a comparison chart of different hairstyles and how they work for an oblong face shape:
| Hairstyle Type | Benefits for Oblong Faces | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Waves/Curls | Adds volume to the sides | Soft, natural waves that create width |
| Bangs | Reduces face length visually | Side-swept or blunt bangs work best |
| Chin-Length Bob | Shortens face length | Ends at the chin, creating balance |
| Layered Cuts | Adds width to the face | Layers around the face’s edges create fullness |
Note: The goal with hairstyles for oblong faces is to create balance and prevent your face from looking too elongated.
How to Apply Makeup for an Oblong Face Shape?
Makeup can be a game-changer when it comes to balancing out the features of an oblong face. Here are a few makeup tips and techniques to help you achieve a more harmonious look:
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Contouring
Contouring is one of the most effective ways to create the illusion of a shorter face. Focus on contouring the sides of the forehead, under the cheekbones, and along the jawline. This technique will help to add width and dimension to the face, making it appear more proportional. -
Highlighting
Use highlighter along your cheekbones, the center of your forehead, and the bridge of your nose to bring attention to these areas. This will draw the eyes upward and away from the length of the face. -
Blush Placement
Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend it slightly toward your temples. This gives the illusion of a rounder face and adds width to the cheeks, which balances out the length of the face. -
Eyebrow Shape
A well-groomed eyebrow can help define your face shape. For oblong faces, aim for soft, slightly arched eyebrows that don’t draw too much attention to the length of the face. Avoid overly thin or angular brows, which can elongate the face further. -
Lipstick
For the lips, go for a fuller look with bold lip colors. Matte lipsticks in deep reds or berries create the illusion of fullness, which can balance out the longer face. Avoid overlining the lips too much, as this can make the face appear even longer.
Here’s a table comparing makeup techniques and their benefits for oblong face shapes:
| Makeup Technique | Benefit for Oblong Faces | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Contouring | Shortens face, adds width | Contour sides of forehead and jawline |
| Highlighting | Draws attention to the center | Apply on cheekbones, center of forehead |
| Blush Placement | Adds fullness to the face | Apply on cheeks and blend toward temples |
| Eyebrow Shape | Defines face without elongating | Go for soft, arched brows |
| Lipstick | Adds fullness to lips | Use bold shades for a fuller lip look |
Reminder: A well-balanced makeup look should complement your hairstyle and overall appearance.
Can Accessories Enhance the Look of an Oblong Face?
Accessories can make a significant difference when styling an oblong face. They can help soften your features and add balance to your overall look. Here are some accessory ideas that can complement your oblong face shape:
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Earrings
Choose round or dangling earrings to add width to your face. Avoid long, narrow earrings as they will elongate the appearance of the face. Hoop earrings or studded earrings work particularly well for balancing oblong faces. -
Scarves and Headbands
A scarf or headband can draw attention to the upper part of the face and add volume. Try a scarf tied around your neck or a wide headband that sits across your forehead. This will reduce the length of the face and add a soft touch to your overall appearance. -
Glasses
When it comes to eyewear, look for frames that are wider than they are tall. Rounded or oval glasses can help soften the angles of an oblong face, whereas long, rectangular frames may accentuate the length of the face.
Here’s a comparison of different accessories and how they complement an oblong face:
| Accessory | Benefit for Oblong Faces | Ideal Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Earrings | Adds width to the face | Round, dangling, or hoop earrings |
| Scarves/Headbands | Adds volume and balance | Wide headbands or scarves around neck |
| Glasses | Softens angular features | Rounded or oval glasses |
Conclusion
Having an oblong face shape doesn’t mean you can’t rock stunning hairstyles and makeup. With the right techniques, you can balance the proportions of your face and enhance your natural beauty. Whether it’s by choosing the right haircut, applying makeup strategically, or using accessories, you can create a flattering look that highlights your features.
Remember to embrace your oblong face shape and experiment with different styles to find what works best for you. Confidence is key, and with these tips, you can feel great while styling your oblong face shape with ease!
FAQ’s
1. What is an oblong face shape?
An oblong face shape is longer than it is wide, with straight sides and a rounded chin. It appears more elongated compared to other face shapes.
2. What are the best hairstyles for an oblong face shape?
Hairstyles like soft waves, chin-length bobs, and layered cuts work well for oblong faces as they add width and balance out the length.
3. How can makeup help with an oblong face shape?
Makeup techniques like contouring, highlighting, and blush placement can shorten the appearance of the face and create a more balanced look.
4. What type of earrings are best for an oblong face shape?
Round or dangling earrings are ideal for an oblong face, as they add width and help balance the proportions of the face.
5. Can I wear glasses with an oblong face?
Yes! Rounded or oval glasses work well for oblong faces as they soften the angles and add balance to the overall look.
