6 Best Sunglasses for Small Faces in 2023 (Men & Women)

Finding the best pair of sunglasses for small faces can be daunting. Your face size is smaller than others, so it takes a few tries to find the perfect pair.

Several styles that look good on another face shape can overwhelm your features. Some frames won’t even stay on your face without slipping down your nose.

However, don’t worry. With a bit of help, you’ll be able to find the right sunglasses for your face. This guide covers technical details to help you understand what to look for in sunglasses for small faces. Then we'll list some of the best options for your face shape.

Recommended Sunglasses Frames for Small Faces

When choosing sunglasses for small faces, here's what you should find and avoid:

Recommended Frames

If you have a narrow face, you'll look good in the following:

Square frames. These frames are a classic option for sunglasses for small faces.
Round sunglasses. Round sunglasses also work for small faces because they won't overshadow your features.
Rimless and semi-rimless frames. These are also great, non-obtrusive options.
Small sunglasses. Small sunglasses are great for smaller faces because they complement your features. They also won't slide down your face as often.

Frames to Avoid

Avoid the following frame shapes if you have a small face:

Tall lenses. These lenses make your face seem even smaller.
Oversized sunglasses. Just like tall lenses, wearing large sunglasses can drown your features.
Aviator sunglasses. Sometimes, aviator sunglasses are too oversized for small faces.
Thick frames. Thicker frames can cover up too much of your face.

Click here for more information on the best sunglasses for your face shape.

Different Styles and Trends

Current fashion trends offer different sunglasses for small faces. However, there’s no reason you can’t experiment with these shapes and sizes.

Cat-eye frames are perfect for those looking to add a bit of edge to their look. Small rectangular frames are perfect for an effortlessly chic look, and round- or oval-shaped lenses can add a retro vibe to any ensemble.

Ultimately, sunglasses are a great way to express your style. So, choose a pair that reflects your unique character and personality.

And while you're at it, pick up sunglasses that complement your facial features without overpowering them.

It’s all about finding a pair that fits you perfectly and offers maximum protection. So, take your time to choose wisely.

Top Women’s Sunglasses for Small Faces

Here are our top choices for women's sunglasses for small faces:

Warby Parker Corwin

Made from mixed metals (monel, bronze, and stainless steel) and cellulose acetate
Prescription sunglasses are made with polarized polycarbonate lenses
100% UV protection
Anti-scratch coating included
Eligible for Home Try-On Program

View on Warby Parker

Warby Parker Wright

Made from hand-polished cellulose acetate
Premium polarized lenses made with CR-39
Prescription sunglasses are made with polarized polycarbonate lenses
Includes scratch-resistant lenses that block 100% of UV rays
Eligible for Home Try-On Program

View on Warby Parker

Warby Parker Durand

Made from hand-polished cellulose acetate
Premium polarized lenses made with CR-39
Prescription sunglasses are made with polarized polycarbonate lenses
Includes scratch-resistant lenses that block 100% of UV rays
Eligible for Home Try-On Program

View on Warby Parker

View all sunglasses for women with small faces on Warby Parker

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Top Men’s Sunglasses for Small Faces

Here are our top sunglasses choices for men with small faces:

Warby Parker Barkley

Made from hand-polished cellulose acetate
Premium polarized lenses made with CR-39
Prescription sunglasses are made with polarized polycarbonate lenses
Includes scratch-resistant lenses that block 100% of UV rays
Eligible for Home Try-On Program

View on Warby Parker

Warby Parker Durand

Made from hand-polished cellulose acetate and stainless steel
Adorned with wraparound hinges in polished metal
Eligible for Home Try-On Program

View on Warby Parker

Warby Parker Merrick

Premium polarized lenses made with CR-39
Prescription sunglasses are made with polarized polycarbonate lenses
Made from stainless steel and custom cellulose acetate
Offers UV protection from UVA and UVB rays
Anti-scratch coating included
Eligible for Home Try-On Program

View on Warby Parker

Ideal Sunglasses Size for Petite Faces

Use these numbers as a guideline to find sunglasses that fit petite faces better:

Frame Width: 123 to 131 mm

Lens Width: 47 to 52 mm (Round frames: 45 to 48 mm)

Bridge Width: 16 to 20 mm (Round frames: 16 to 22 mm)

Lens Height: Rectangular: 28 to 32 mm; Square: 32 to 39 mm; Oval: 30 to 32 mm; Round: 35 to 41 mm

Temple Length: 130 to 145 mm

How to Choose Sunglasses for Different Face Shapes

When selecting the right sunglasses for face shapes, there are a few things to consider.

Frame size. Ensure the size is proportionate to your face shape and does not overwhelm your features.
Frame shape and design. The best design will depend on your face shape and size⁠—angular frames work best for long faces, while rounded ones work for square faces.
Fit of the frame. Sunglasses that fit snugly will provide the most comfort as they will not slide down your nose.

Besides these factors, remember to look for a comfortable and durable pair. One with 100% UVA/UVB protection and polarized lenses will also give the best defense against the sun's harmful rays.

Sunglasses for Unique Facial Features

Unique facial features can also influence the sunglasses you choose.

If you have chubby cheeks, go for wider frames with a thicker bridge to balance out the fullness.
High cheekbones often look best with square-shaped frames to bring out the natural contours.
Narrow faces work well with aviator-style sunglasses as they provide a sense of width. These frames also work well with most other facial features.

How to Measure Your Face

Measuring your face will give you a better idea of what size sunglasses fit will work for you. A small face may have a shorter vertical dimension.

The most critical measurements will be your face width and pupillary distance. These will help you find frames that fit perfectly with your face measurements.

It’s a simple process. All you’ll need is a flexible tape measure. Then take these five measurements (be sure to write them down in millimeters):

1. Forehead Width. Measure the widest part of your forehead, from hairline to hairline.

2. Cheekbone Width. Measure the width of your cheekbones. Start from your hairline above your cheekbone to the same point on the opposite side.

3. Jawline Width. Start measuring just underneath your ears at the base of your jaw. Run the tape measure along the edge of your jaw until it reaches the middle of your chin. Multiply this number by two for the complete measurement.

4. Face Length. Hold the tape measure at the center of your hairline and stretch it to the tip of your chin.

5. Pupillary Distance. Find a stiff ruler for this one and stand about 8 inches from a mirror. Hold the ruler across the bridge of your nose. With your right eye closed, line up the 0 to the center of your left pupil.

Then, open your right eye and close your left eye. Without moving the ruler, check for the line that falls directly over the center of your right pupil. Most people will have a pupillary distance (PD) of 54-74 mm.

The widest part of your face will determine your face shape as well as your face size. Narrow faces typically range between 110 mm and 125 mm in their measurements.