Quick Tip: To determine your face shape, pull your hair back, look in a mirror, and trace the outline of your face on the mirror with lipstick or a washable marker. Step back and observe the shape you have drawn.
## Earrings for Round Face Shapes
Round faces are characterised by soft, curved lines with the width and length being approximately equal. The cheeks are typically the widest part of the face, and the chin is rounded rather than pointed. Famous examples include Kirsten Dunst, Chrissy Teigen, and Ginnifer Goodwin.
### Recommended Styles
The goal for round faces is to add length and angles to create the illusion of a more oval shape. Long, dangling earrings work wonderfully because they draw the eye downward and elongate the face. Angular geometric shapes—squares, rectangles, and triangles—add definition that contrasts beautifully with soft facial curves.
Drop earrings that fall below the jawline are particularly flattering. Narrow, elongated designs create vertical lines that lengthen the face. Teardrop shapes with pointed ends help elongate while remaining elegant.
### Styles to Approach with Caution
Small button studs can make a round face appear wider because they sit at the widest point of the face without adding length. Large, circular hoops echo the round shape of the face, potentially making it appear rounder. Very wide earrings add horizontal emphasis, which is counterproductive for round faces.
## Earrings for Oval Face Shapes
Oval faces are considered the most versatile face shape, with balanced proportions and gently curved lines. The face is slightly longer than it is wide, the forehead is slightly wider than the chin, and the cheekbones are the widest part of the face. Examples include Beyoncé, Jessica Alba, and Charlize Theron.
### Recommended Styles
The wonderful news for oval faces is that virtually any earring style works well. This balanced face shape can carry everything from tiny studs to dramatic chandeliers. Take advantage of this versatility to express your personal style freely.
That said, some styles are particularly striking on oval faces. Teardrop earrings complement the natural symmetry beautifully. Oval-shaped earrings echo the face shape for a harmonious look. Medium-sized hoops of any style sit perfectly on oval faces.
### Maximising Your Options
Since oval faces suit most styles, focus on choosing earrings that match your outfit, the occasion, and your personal aesthetic rather than worrying about face shape rules. Experiment boldly with trends and statement pieces.
## Earrings for Square Face Shapes
Square faces feature a strong, angular jawline with the forehead, cheekbones, and jaw being approximately the same width. The face shape appears structured and symmetrical with defined angles. Famous square-faced beauties include Angelina Jolie, Keira Knightley, and Olivia Wilde.
### Recommended Styles
The objective for square faces is to soften the angular jawline and add length. Curved and rounded earring shapes contrast beautifully with the face's natural angles. Long, dangly earrings draw attention away from the strong jaw and create a lengthening effect.
Hoop earrings of medium to large size work exceptionally well. Circular and oval shapes soften the face's angular lines. Teardrop and pear-shaped earrings add curves while elongating. Chandelier earrings with rounded elements are stunning on square faces.
### Styles to Approach with Caution
Square and rectangular earrings echo the angular jaw, potentially making the face appear more boxy. Earrings that sit at the jawline can emphasise its width. Small studs may look out of proportion with a strong jaw.
Key Insight: The contrast principle works both ways—sometimes deliberately matching your face shape with similar earring shapes creates a powerful, intentional look. Rules are meant to be understood, then broken creatively.
## Earrings for Heart Face Shapes
Heart-shaped faces feature a wider forehead and cheekbones that taper down to a narrow, sometimes pointed chin. This romantic face shape is exemplified by Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, and Taylor Swift.
### Recommended Styles
For heart faces, the goal is to add width at the jawline and draw attention away from the wider forehead. Earrings that are wider at the bottom than the top help balance the face shape beautifully.
Teardrop earrings worn with the wider end at the bottom are ideal. Chandelier earrings that fan out toward the bottom add width where needed. Medium to large hoop earrings add fullness around the jaw area. Fan-shaped or triangular earrings pointing downward create balance.
### Styles to Approach with Caution
Earrings that are wider at the top can exaggerate forehead width. Very short earrings that sit high on the ear draw attention upward to the wider part of the face. Pointed earrings can echo the pointed chin too strongly.
## Earrings for Oblong Face Shapes
Oblong or rectangular faces are longer than they are wide, with a long, straight cheek line. The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are similar in width. Examples include Sarah Jessica Parker, Liv Tyler, and Hilary Swank.
### Recommended Styles
For oblong faces, the goal is to add width and create the illusion of a shorter face. Short, wide earrings are your best friends. Styles that add horizontal emphasis help balance the face's natural length.
Button studs and cluster earrings add width at the cheekbone area. Short dangles that do not extend past the jaw work well. Wide hoop earrings and huggies are excellent choices. Circular and square shapes add width without adding length.
### Styles to Approach with Caution
Long, dangling earrings can make an already long face appear longer. Narrow, vertical designs emphasise length. Very small studs may look lost on a longer face.
## Putting It All Together
Remember that these are guidelines, not rules etched in stone. Your personal style, the occasion, your outfit, and your mood all play important roles in choosing earrings. Use face shape knowledge as a starting point, then experiment to discover what makes you feel most confident and beautiful.
Consider building a versatile earring collection that includes styles suited to your face shape for everyday wear, alongside a few statement pieces that break the rules for special occasions when you want to make an impact. Fashion is about self-expression, and understanding the principles simply gives you more tools to express yourself effectively.