Embracing Your Elongated Canvas: A Guide to Enhancing the Oblong Face

Understanding the Oblong Face Shape

An oblong face is characterized by its elongated, rectangular shape with a slightly wider forehead than chin. It typically has straight sides, a narrow jawline, and a high cheekbone line.

Defining Features of an Oblong Face

• Length: Oblong faces are significantly longer than they are wide, with a length-to-width ratio of approximately 1.5:1 or greater.
• Shape: The overall shape is rectangular, with parallel sides and a slightly wider forehead than chin.
• Forehead: Oblong faces often have a high, prominent forehead that gradually narrows towards the chin.
• Cheekbones: The cheekbones are typically high and slightly angled, creating a natural contour on the sides of the face.
• Jawline: The jawline is typically narrow and defined, with a slightly rounded or square shape.

Hairstyles for Oblong Faces

When choosing hairstyles for an oblong face, the goal is to create width and balance.

Flattering Hairstyles:

• Layers: Long or medium-length layers can add volume and width to the sides of the face, balancing the elongated shape.
• Bangs: Side-swept or wispy bangs can soften the forehead and draw attention to the eyes.
• Curls: Loose curls or waves can create fullness and movement, adding width to the face.

Avoid These Hairstyles:

• Straight, center-parted hair: This can emphasize the length of the face and make it appear even more narrow.
• Slicked-back hair: This can make the forehead appear longer and the face less balanced.
• Long, thin ponytails: High or tight ponytails can further elongate the face and should be avoided.

Makeup for Oblong Faces

Makeup can be used to create balance and highlight the best features of an oblong face.

Highlighting Cheekbones:

• Apply blush to the apples of the cheeks and blend upwards towards the temples.
• Use a light shade on the highest point of the cheekbones to create lift.

Contouring:

• Use a matte bronzer or contour powder to create subtle definition along the hairline and jawline.
• This can help minimize the forehead's length and create a more oval shape.

Eyebrows:

• Shape eyebrows with a soft arch to balance the elongated face shape.
• Avoid overly angular or thin eyebrows, as these can further narrow the face.

Accessories for Oblong Faces

Accessories can be used to add interest and draw attention to flattering areas of the face.

Earrings:

• Opt for earrings that hang slightly below the jawline, such as chandeliers or hoops.
• This can visually widen the face and create the illusion of a shorter length.

Necklaces:

• Choose necklaces that are shorter in length, as longer chains can elongate the face.
• Pendants with width can add balance and draw attention to the neckline.

Fashion Tips for Oblong Faces

Clothing can also be used to create a more balanced look.

Necklines:

• Boat necks and V-necks help widen the face and shorten the appearance of the neck.
• Avoid high necklines or turtlenecks, as these can make the face appear even longer.

Patterns and Prints:

• Horizontal stripes or bold prints on clothing can add width to the face.
• Avoid vertical stripes or small, intricate patterns that can emphasize the length of the face.

Headwear:

• Wide-brimmed hats or beanies can create a sense of fullness at the top of the face, balancing the elongated shape.

Celebrity Inspirations with Oblong Faces

Several celebrities have oblong face shapes and have mastered the art of enhancing their features.

• Jessica Alba: Known for her side-swept bangs, layers, and soft makeup that accentuates her high cheekbones.
• Liv Tyler: Embraces her elongated face with long, loose curls and a subtle contour that defines her jawline.
• Victoria Beckham: Sports a sleek, angled bob with side bangs that create width at the sides of her face.

Stories of Transformation

Story 1: Emily had always been self-conscious about her oblong face. After experimenting with different hairstyles and makeup techniques, she discovered the power of layers and side-swept bangs. These changes instantly created a more balanced and flattering appearance.

Story 2: John noticed that his narrow jawline made his face appear even longer. By incorporating a subtle contour along his hairline and chin, he was able to create the illusion of a more oval shape, boosting his confidence.

Story 3: Sarah realized that her long, straight hair was emphasizing the length of her face. After cutting her hair into a medium-length bob with layers, she gained volume and width on the sides, transforming her look completely.

Key Takeaways

• Oblong faces have a rectangular shape with a length-to-width ratio of 1.5:1 or greater.
• Flattering hairstyles include layers, bangs, and curls that create width and balance.
• Makeup can be used to highlight cheekbones, contour the face, and shape eyebrows.
• Accessories like earrings and necklaces can draw attention to the desired areas.
• Clothing choices should include boat necks, horizontal stripes, and wide-brimmed hats to enhance the face's width.

Tips and Tricks for Oblong Faces

• Use a hair dryer and round brush: This can add volume and shape to the hair, creating width.
• Experiment with different parting positions: A side part or deep side part can create the illusion of a shorter face.
• Avoid wearing heavy makeup: This can emphasize the face's narrowness.
• Consider lip injections: This can add fullness to the lips and balance the elongated shape.
• Choose glasses with wider frames: This can help widen the face and minimize the length.

How to Step-by-Step Approach

1. Determine Your Face Shape: Measure the length and width of your face. If the length is significantly greater than the width, you likely have an oblong face shape.

2. Experiment with Hairstyles: Try different hairstyles to see which ones flatter your face the best. Consider using layers, bangs, or curls to add width and balance.

3. Enhance Your Makeup: Focus on highlighting your cheekbones, contouring the face, and shaping your eyebrows to create a more oval shape.

4. Accessorize Wisely: Choose earrings, necklaces, and headwear that add width to your face and minimize its length.

5. Opt for Flattering Clothing: Select clothing with necklines, patterns, and headwear that help create a balanced and harmonious look.

Call to Action

If you have an oblong face shape, don't be afraid to embrace it. By following these tips and tricks, you can enhance your natural beauty and create a look that is both flattering and confident. Experiment with different hairstyles, makeup techniques, and accessories to find what works best for you. Remember, beauty is not a one-size-fits-all concept, and your oblong face is a unique and beautiful feature that can be accentuated with the right approach.

Additional Resources

All About Face Shapes: A Comprehensive Guide to Flattering Your Features