When it comes to face shapes, the oblong face is one that often gets overlooked. However, this face shape has its own set of unique features that can be highlighted with the right styling choices. If you have an oblong face shape, you’re likely to have a longer face with balanced width across the cheeks, forehead, and jawline. It’s crucial to understand how to enhance your face shape with the right cuts, hairstyles, and makeup to create a harmonious look.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what an oblong face shape is, how to identify it, and what you can do to accentuate your features. Whether you’re choosing the right haircut, makeup, or accessories, we’ll cover everything you need to know to flatter an oblong face shape.
Key Points to Know:
- An oblong face shape is longer than it is wide.
- The goal is to add width and soften the angular features of the face.
- With the right choices, you can balance the proportions and create a more oval appearance.
What Is an Oblong Face Shape?
An oblong face shape is often confused with a rectangle face shape, but the key difference lies in the length of the face. An oblong face is longer than it is wide, with a length that is noticeably greater than the width of the cheeks or forehead. People with this face shape usually have a slightly narrower jawline, and their cheeks and forehead are about the same width.
Characteristics of an Oblong Face
- Longer Length: The most prominent feature of an oblong face shape is the length. The face tends to appear longer vertically than horizontally.
- Balanced Width: The forehead, cheeks, and jawline have a similar width, unlike other face shapes that may have more dramatic differences.
- Narrow Jawline: The jawline is usually narrow, with more rounded corners compared to square or heart-shaped faces.
Understanding these characteristics is crucial for choosing the right style that complements the oblong face shape. It’s all about adding balance and creating a softer, more symmetrical appearance.
What Hairstyles Suit an Oblong Face Shape?
When selecting a hairstyle for an oblong face, the goal is to add width and volume to the sides of the face to make it appear more balanced. Here are some of the best hairstyle options for those with an oblong face shape:
1. Curly and Wavy Styles
Curly and wavy hairstyles work well for oblong faces because they add volume on the sides, which helps to shorten the appearance of the face. Soft curls or waves add dimension and balance out the length of the face.
Example: A shoulder-length curly bob or soft waves can add width to the sides of the face, reducing the elongated look.
2. Blunt Bangs
Blunt bangs are a great choice for people with an oblong face. By covering the forehead, blunt bangs can visually shorten the face, making it appear more proportional. Additionally, bangs can add texture and a youthful look.
Example: A straight-across fringe or curtain bangs are popular styles that work wonders for an oblong face.
3. Layered Haircuts
Layered haircuts with volume at the sides help add width to the face and make it appear less long. A layered style works well because it softens the angular features and creates an overall balanced look.
Example: A layered bob or long, flowing layers with side-swept bangs will balance out the proportions of your face.
4. Side Parted Hairstyles
Side parts are ideal for oblong faces as they break up the length and add some asymmetry to the face. This helps to create the illusion of a more oval face.
Example: A side part with loose waves or curls creates volume on the sides of the face, making it appear more balanced.
How to Choose the Best Makeup for an Oblong Face?
Makeup can do wonders for accentuating the best features of an oblong face shape. With the right makeup techniques, you can add depth and dimension to the face, making it look more symmetrical and proportionate. Here are some makeup tips:
1. Contouring for the Jawline
Since oblong faces often have a narrow jawline, contouring is a great way to create the illusion of a fuller, more defined jaw. By applying a contour shade just beneath the jawline, you can create the appearance of a more rounded and shorter jaw.
Example: Use a contour powder or cream a few shades darker than your skin tone and apply it along the jawline, blending it toward the ears.
2. Highlighting the Cheeks
Highlighter should be applied to the cheeks and the center of the forehead to draw attention to the center of the face, shortening the appearance of length. This adds width and dimension to the face, balancing out the long features.
Example: Apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones and along the center of your forehead, blending well for a natural glow.
3. Eye Makeup for Focus
Bold eye makeup, like smoky eyes or winged eyeliner, can draw attention upward, away from the length of the face. This helps to balance the proportions and create a more oval shape.
Example: Opt for dramatic eye makeup with thick lashes or winged eyeliner to emphasize your eyes and balance the face’s length.
What Accessories Suit an Oblong Face Shape?
When it comes to accessories, there are a few items that can help complement the features of an oblong face shape. By choosing the right accessories, you can add balance and create harmony in your overall look.
1. Statement Earrings
Statement earrings, such as large hoops or drop earrings, work well to add width to the face. By drawing attention to the sides of the face, earrings can visually shorten the face’s length and make it appear more balanced.
Example: Choose bold, rounded earrings or chandelier earrings to add volume to the sides of the face.
2. Scarves and Headbands
Scarves and headbands that add volume around the face can also help balance out an oblong face. Look for wide headbands or scarves that wrap around the head to add width and create a more oval shape.
Example: A wide headband worn across the forehead adds volume and creates the illusion of a shorter face.
3. Glasses for Oblong Faces
The right pair of glasses can make a huge difference when styling an oblong face shape. Oval or round frames are ideal for adding width to the face. Avoid narrow, rectangular frames, as they will only accentuate the length of the face.
Example: Choose glasses with rounded edges or oversized frames for a balanced and flattering look.
Conclusion: Embracing Your Oblong Face Shape
An oblong face shape may seem challenging to style at first, but with the right haircuts, makeup, and accessories, you can enhance your natural beauty and create a balanced, harmonious look. The key is to focus on adding width and dimension to the sides of your face while using makeup techniques to shorten the length.
Reminder: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques to see what works best for your unique face shape.
Note: Embrace your oblong face and make it your own by choosing the right features that accentuate your personality and style.
FAQ’s
1. What is the best haircut for an oblong face?
The best haircuts for an oblong face include soft curls, layered cuts, and blunt bangs, as they add volume to the sides and balance the length of the face.
2. Can I wear bangs if I have an oblong face?
Yes, bangs are a great way to shorten the appearance of an oblong face. Blunt bangs or side-swept bangs work well for this face shape.
3. What makeup techniques are best for an oblong face?
Contouring the jawline, highlighting the cheeks, and focusing on bold eye makeup will help balance the length of the face and add dimension.
4. What types of accessories should I wear with an oblong face shape?
Round or statement earrings, wide headbands, and rounded glasses are great accessories for oblong faces as they add width and create balance.
5. How can I make my oblong face appear shorter?
To make your oblong face appear shorter, focus on adding volume to the sides with hairstyles like waves, curls, and layered cuts, and use makeup to highlight the center of the face.
