The Ultimate Guide to Styling Oblong Face Shapes

Oblong Face Shapes can be stunning to look at whenever they are highlighted the right way with the help of hairstyles, outfits and accessories that play well on their strengths. However, with the wrong choices, this face shape can appear longer, narrower, and flatter than desired. In this article, we explore the unique characteristics of oblong face shapes, and provide expert styling advice to help you accentuate your best features.

Understanding the Basics of Oblong Face Shapes

Face shapes are primarily classified based on their length and width. Oblong face shapes are longer than they are wide, with a narrow forehead, a longer jawline, and cheekbones that are not as pronounced. They can also have a slightly pointed chin.

Styling Tips and Tricks for Oblong Face Shapes

When styling an oblong face shape, the goal is to create balance and width to the face. Here are some effective strategies:

• Hairstyles: Opt for hairstyles that add volume and width to the sides of the face, such as layered bobs, side-swept bangs, or loose curls. Avoid styles that are too short or that pull the hair back tightly. Source: American Academy of Dermatology

  

• Eyebrows: Brows that are slightly arched and extended outward can help to widen the forehead and create a more balanced look. Avoid thin or overly plucked brows. Source: Harvard Health Publishing

• Makeup: Use contouring and highlighting techniques to create the illusion of a wider face. Apply a darker shade of foundation or bronzer to the sides of the face and a lighter shade to the center. Highlight the cheekbones and temples to draw attention to the widest parts of the face. Source: The Cut

- Accessories: Statement earrings, wide-brimmed hats, and scarves can add width to the face. Avoid long, narrow jewelry or accessories that will emphasize the length of the face.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Oblong Face Shapes

• Hairstyles: Avoid hairstyles that add height to the crown of the head, such as high ponytails or buns. This will only make the face appear longer.

• Eyebrows: Over-plucking or thinning the eyebrows can make the forehead appear narrower and the face longer.

  

• Makeup: Applying blush too low on the cheeks can emphasize the length of the face. Instead, apply blush to the apples of the cheeks and blend upward.

  

Success Stories

• Jennifer Aniston: Aniston's signature hairstyle, a layered bob with side-swept bangs, perfectly complements her oblong face shape. The layers add volume and width to the sides of her face, while the bangs help to balance out the length.

• Julia Roberts: Roberts' long, loose curls and arched eyebrows help to create a wider, more balanced look. Her makeup is always applied in a way that draws attention to her cheekbones and temples, further accentuating the width of her face.

- Diane Kruger: Kruger's pixie cut adds volume to the sides of her face, while her bold eyebrows help to define her forehead. She often wears statement earrings to further widen her face.

Challenges and Limitations

While styling an oblong face shape can be flattering, there are some challenges to consider:

• Length: Oblong face shapes can appear longer than desired, especially when not styled correctly.

• Narrowness: The narrowness of the face can make it difficult to create balance and width.

• Chin Shape: A slightly pointed chin can accentuate the length of the face.

Mitigating Risks

To mitigate the risks associated with styling an oblong face shape, it's important to:

• Focus on balance: Choose hairstyles, makeup, and accessories that create width and balance to the face.

• Use optical illusions: Use contouring and highlighting techniques to create the illusion of a wider face.

• Avoid extremes: Avoid hairstyles or makeup that emphasize the length or narrowness of the face.