By Diva Dressing 
Finding your face shape is an essential step in choosing flattering hairstyles, makeup techniques, and accessories. Here’s a guide to help you determine your face shape and tips on how to use it to your advantage:
Measure Key Features
You can figure out your face shape by measuring certain areas of your face. Grab a flexible measuring tape or a ruler and note these key measurements:
- Forehead Width: Measure across the widest part of your forehead.
- Cheekbones: Measure from the highest point of one cheekbone to the other.
- Jawline: Measure from the base of your jaw (below your ear) to the tip of your chin. Multiply this by two for the full jawline measurement.
- Face Length: Measure from the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin.
Identify the Shape
Based on your measurements, compare them to the following common face shapes:
- Oval: The length of your face is about one and a half times the width. Your forehead is slightly wider than your chin, and your jawline is softly rounded.
- Round: Your face is as wide as it is long, with soft, rounded edges and full cheeks.
- Square: All your measurements are fairly equal, with a strong, angular jawline and square forehead.
- Rectangle (or Oblong): Your face is longer than it is wide, with a straight jawline and forehead about the same width as your jaw.
- Heart: Your forehead is wider than your jawline, with high cheekbones and a pointed chin.
- Diamond: Your face length is the longest, with wide cheekbones and a narrower forehead and jawline.
Tricks to Figure Out Your Face Shape
- Use a Mirror: Stand in front of a mirror and, using a lipstick or washable marker, trace the outline of your face. Step back to observe the shape you’ve drawn and see which category it falls into.
- Selfie Method: Take a straight-on photo of your face, print it, and outline the edges of your face on the photo. Compare it to the descriptions above.
- Apps: Some apps analyze photos and help determine your face shape. This is a quick and fun way to double-check your own findings.
How to Use Your Face Shape to Your Advantage
Each face shape can be enhanced with different hairstyles, makeup, and accessories:
- Oval: Almost every hairstyle flatters an oval face, but soft layers that frame your face will enhance its natural shape.
- Round: To elongate the face, opt for hairstyles with volume at the crown or long, straight layers. Avoid overly rounded styles.
- Square: Soften your strong jawline with wavy, layered hairstyles. Side parts and soft curls work wonders.
- Rectangle: To balance a long face, go for cuts with volume at the sides and soft bangs. Avoid hairstyles that add height.
- Heart: Highlight your cheekbones with soft waves or a chin-length bob. Avoid heavy, blunt bangs that emphasize the width of your forehead.
- Diamond: Balance narrow features with chin-length bobs and side-swept bangs. Avoid overly short or high-volume styles that emphasize the cheekbones.
