An oblong face shape is characterized by length, where the face is longer than it is wide. This shape has relatively straight sides and a more angular appearance. If you have an oblong face, your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are typically similar in width, with the length being the defining feature. Whether you are looking to enhance your features with the right hairstyle, makeup, or accessories, it’s important to embrace the natural proportions of your face and learn how to style it effectively.
In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the oblong face shape. From the best hairstyles to makeup tips and even accessories that suit this face shape, we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you find the right ways to balance your facial features and highlight your best attributes.
Key Points to Remember:
- An oblong face is longer than it is wide, with similar width across the forehead, cheekbones, and jawline.
- The right hairstyles can help balance out the length of an oblong face by adding width and volume.
- Makeup techniques such as contouring and blush placement are ideal for shortening the face and adding dimension.
What Is an Oblong Face Shape?
An oblong face shape is one of the less common shapes, but it’s also one of the most easily recognizable. If you have an oblong face, your face is noticeably longer than it is wide. The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are typically around the same width, but your face will appear longer due to its proportions. Often, people with an oblong face shape have a slightly rounded or squared chin.
Many individuals with an oblong face shape feel that their face looks too long or narrow, but the key is in the way you style your face. By using the right techniques, you can create a look that is more balanced, bringing focus to the right parts of your face while reducing the emphasis on its length. Understanding your face shape is the first step toward knowing how to flatter it with the right hairstyle, makeup, and accessories.
What Are the Best Hairstyles for an Oblong Face Shape?
When choosing the right hairstyle for an oblong face, the goal is to add volume and width, creating the illusion of a more proportional face. The right haircut can break up the length of your face, making it appear more balanced. Here are some of the best hairstyle options for an oblong face:
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Soft Waves or Curls
Soft waves or curls create volume on the sides of the face. This adds width and gives the illusion of a shorter face. For a more natural look, you can use a curling iron or wand to create loose waves that frame your face without drawing attention to its length. -
Bangs
One of the most popular options for an oblong face shape is bangs. Soft, side-swept bangs or blunt bangs can add width to the forehead and cover a part of the face, reducing its length. Avoid long, straight bangs, which can elongate the face even further. -
Chin-Length Bob
A chin-length bob can work wonders for an oblong face. This cut sits at the chin and adds volume, creating the illusion of a shorter face. A bob with layers can also help add texture and width, further balancing the face shape. -
Layered Cuts
Layers that add volume to the sides of your head will help create fullness around the face. By focusing the layers around the cheekbones and jawline, you can prevent your face from looking too long. This adds a balanced shape to your face while giving it some movement and body.
Here’s a comparison table of different hairstyles and how they affect an oblong face shape:
| Hairstyle | Benefit for Oblong Faces | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Waves/Curls | Adds volume and width | Loose, soft curls that frame the face |
| Bangs | Reduces face length visually | Side-swept or blunt bangs |
| Chin-Length Bob | Shortens face and adds width | Ends at the chin, creating balance |
| Layered Cuts | Adds fullness and width to face | Layers around the cheekbones and jawline |
Note: The key to flattering an oblong face shape is to add width and balance, which can be achieved through volume at the sides of the face.
How to Apply Makeup for an Oblong Face Shape?
Makeup can be an effective way to balance out an oblong face shape. With the right techniques, you can create the illusion of a more rounded and balanced face. Here are some makeup tips to consider for an oblong face:
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Contouring
Contouring is one of the best makeup techniques for shortening the appearance of an oblong face. Use a contouring powder or cream to define the sides of your forehead, the edges of your jawline, and underneath your cheekbones. This adds depth to the face and helps create the illusion of width. -
Highlighting
Highlighting the high points of your face, like the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow, will draw attention to the center of your face. This technique brings attention to the middle part of your face and away from the length of the face, creating a more proportional look. -
Blush Placement
Apply blush on the apples of your cheeks and sweep it slightly toward your temples. This adds roundness to your face and reduces the elongation of your features. Be sure to blend it well so it doesn’t create harsh lines. -
Eyebrow Shape
Eyebrows can greatly influence the shape of your face. For oblong faces, avoid very thin or overly angular brows. Instead, aim for a soft arch or natural shape that complements your face’s proportions. A more rounded or gently arched eyebrow can balance the face and prevent it from looking too elongated.
Here’s a table comparing makeup techniques and their benefits for an oblong face:
| Makeup Technique | Benefit for Oblong Faces | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Contouring | Shortens face length visually | Contour the forehead, jawline, and cheekbones |
| Highlighting | Draws attention to the center | Highlight cheekbones and forehead |
| Blush Placement | Adds fullness to the face | Apply to apples of the cheeks, blend to temples |
| Eyebrow Shape | Softens face shape | Go for a soft arch or rounded shape |
Reminder: Make sure to blend all makeup products well to create a seamless, natural look that balances your facial features.
What Accessories Suit an Oblong Face Shape?
Accessories can also play a big role in complementing an oblong face shape. The right jewelry, scarves, and eyewear can help to soften the angles and add balance. Here are some accessories that work best for oblong faces:
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Earrings
Choose earrings that add width to your face. Round or hoop earrings are great choices, as they draw attention to the sides of your face and create a more balanced look. Avoid long, dangling earrings that can elongate the face further. -
Scarves and Headbands
A scarf worn loosely around the neck or a headband can add volume around the face. A headband that sits across the forehead can reduce the appearance of length, while scarves can help to break up the lines of your face and add a touch of style. -
Glasses
Opt for round or oval-shaped glasses to soften the angles of your oblong face. These shapes can add width to your face and create the illusion of balance. Avoid long, rectangular glasses that will only emphasize the length of your face.
Here’s a comparison of different accessories and their impact on an oblong face:
| Accessory | Benefit for Oblong Faces | Ideal Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Earrings | Adds width to the face | Round or hoop earrings |
| Scarves/Headbands | Adds volume and balance | Wide headbands or scarves around neck |
| Glasses | Softens angular features | Round or oval glasses |
Conclusion
An oblong face shape may seem challenging to style, but with the right techniques, you can bring balance and harmony to your look. By choosing the right hairstyles, makeup, and accessories, you can highlight your best features and reduce the appearance of length in your face. Remember, the goal is to create the illusion of width and softness, so your face appears more balanced and proportional.
With these styling tips, you can enhance your natural beauty and feel confident about your oblong face shape. Embrace your face shape and experiment with different looks to find what works best for you!
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 or square chin. The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are typically the same width.
2. What are the best hairstyles for an oblong face shape?
Hairstyles that add volume to the sides of the face, such as soft waves, bangs, chin-length bobs, and layered cuts, are great for oblong faces.
3. How can I make my oblong face look shorter?
Contouring, highlighting, and applying blush to the apples of your cheeks can help reduce the appearance of a longer face. Choose hairstyles and accessories that add width and balance.
4. What type of earrings are best for an oblong face shape?
Round or hoop earrings are ideal for oblong faces, as they add width and prevent the face from looking too elongated.
5. Can accessories help with an oblong face shape?
Yes! Accessories like scarves, headbands, and round glasses can add volume and balance, making your oblong face appear more proportional.
