How Do I Know if I Have an Oblong Face Shape ?

An oblong face shape creates a sleek, statuesque appearance. The face length exceeds the width by about 1.5 times. Sides run straight from temples to jaw. The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline have similar widths.

This guide covers identification methods, styling techniques, and confidence-building approaches. You'll learn professional strategies to create visual balance and enhance your natural proportions.

For a quick comparison with all other types, see our guide comparing all face shapes.

Understanding Oblong Face Shape: Features and Definition

An oblong face shape has distinct characteristics. Face length significantly exceeds width. The sides appear straight rather than curved. Width remains consistent across the forehead, cheeks, and jaw.

Think of a rectangle standing upright. Your face follows this elongated vertical line. The proportions create elegant, model-like features.

For differences between soft and structured shapes, compare with the oval face shape if your features feel more curved.

Key Features of Oblong Faces

• Greater length than width: Face length measures 1.5 times the face width or more

• Straight cheek lines: Sides run vertically from temple to jaw

• Tall forehead: Forehead height contributes to overall length

• Similar widths: Forehead, cheekbones, and jaw measure approximately equal

• Angular chin: Chin may be slightly pointed or squared

Note on Elegance: Oblong faces are often described as sophisticated and statuesque. Your elongated proportions create naturally elegant lines that photograph beautifully.

If your cheekbones appear dramatically wider than your forehead and jaw, you may fit the diamond face shape instead.

Oblong vs Oval vs Rectangle: What's the Difference?

These three face shapes share similarities but have distinct differences

The terms "oblong" and "rectangular" are often used interchangeably. Oval faces have more curves. Oblong faces have straighter sides and typically greater length

If you're comparing oval vs oblong, check the oval face shape guide for clearer differences.

How to Determine if You Have an Oblong Face Shape

You can identify your face shape using measurement and visual observation. Both methods provide confirmation.

The Measurement Method

Use a flexible measuring tape. Record measurements in centimeters for precision.

Step 1: Measure face length
Start at center of hairline. Measure straight down to bottom of chin. Record this number.

Step 2: Measure face width
Measure across your face at its widest point, typically across cheekbones. Record this measurement.

Step 3: Calculate ratio
Divide length by width. If the result is 1.5 or higher, you have an oblong face shape.

If you want to compare measurement ratios visually, check the face shape comparison guide.

Example calculation:
Face length: 22 cm (8.7 inches)
Face width: 14 cm (5.5 inches)
Ratio: 22 ÷ 14 = 1.57 (oblong face shape)

Quick Reference Tool

Use a standard playing card (3.5 × 2.5 inches or 8.9 × 6.4 cm) as a rough guide. Hold it vertically against your face. If your face appears noticeably longer, you likely have an oblong shape

The Visual Observation Test

Stand in front of a mirror with good lighting. Pull hair completely back from face. Look straight ahead.

Observe these features:

1. Check your face sides. They should appear relatively straight from temples to jaw.

2. Compare forehead width to jaw width. These measurements should look similar.

3. Notice your face length. It should appear noticeably longer than it is wide.

4. Examine your forehead. Oblong faces typically have tall foreheads.

If you see these characteristics, you have an oblong face shape

If your forehead appears significantly wider than your jaw, compare with the heart face shape

The Profile View Test

Turn sideways to the mirror. Observe your profile. Oblong faces show balanced features in profile. Your chin projects forward naturally. The forehead may slope back slightly.

Check the distance from your nose to your chin. In oblong faces, this vertical distance appears considerable

If your chin looks more pointed and cheekbones widest, you may relate more to the diamond face shape.

Common Identification Mistakes

Many people confuse oval and oblong face shapes. Both have similar proportions. The key difference is curve versus straightness.

Oval faces have:

• Gently rounded jawlines

• Curved sides that taper toward chin

• Softer transitions between features

Oblong faces have:

• Straighter jawlines

• Parallel sides from temple to jaw

• More angular transitions

If your jawline looks broad or strongly angular, compare your structure with the square face shape guide

Professional Insight

If you're uncertain between oval and oblong, measure your face width at three points: forehead, cheekbones, and jaw. If all three measurements are nearly identical, you have an oblong face. If cheekbones are wider, you likely have an oval face

For more clarity, compare with the round face shape if fullness makes you unsure.

If your jaw is wider than your forehead, review the triangle (pear) face shape instead.

The Best Haircuts for Oblong Face Shape

The right haircut creates width and reduces perceived length. Choose styles that add volume at sides rather than crown. Focus on horizontal lines.

Hairstyles That Flatter a Long Face

Width-adding styles balance your proportions. Layers and texture create visual interest at sides of face.

Best hairstyle choices:

• Shoulder-length cuts with layers: Creates width at cheek level

• Textured waves or curls: Adds horizontal volume

• Side-swept styles: Breaks up vertical lines

• Blunt bobs at chin or shoulder: Creates strong horizontal line

• Layered pixie cuts: Volume at sides, not excessive height on top

Styling Principle

Add width, not height. Volume at the sides of your head balances face length. Avoid styles that add significant height at crown, as this elongates your face further

Bangs for Oblong Faces

Bangs shorten face length visually. They create a horizontal line across forehead. This reduces perceived height.

Flattering bang styles:

• Curtain bangs: Part in center, frame face on sides

• Eyebrow-grazing fringe: Covers portion of forehead

• Side-swept bangs: Creates diagonal line that softens length

• Blunt straight bangs: Strong horizontal line shortens face dramatically

Bangs work exceptionally well for oblong faces. They're one of the most effective styling tools for balancing proportions.

Hairstyles to Avoid

Certain styles emphasize length rather than balance it

Limit These Styles

• Long, straight hair with center part: Creates vertical lines that add length

• High top knots or buns: Adds height, elongates face

• Slicked-back styles: Exposes full face length without softening

• Very short crops with no fringe: Reveals tall forehead, adds length

• Excessive volume on top: Creates vertical emphasis

Celebrity Examples: Oblong Face Hairstyles

Study how celebrities with oblong faces style their hair:

• Sarah Jessica Parker: Often wears textured layers with volume at sides

• Liv Tyler: Favors shoulder-length cuts with soft waves

• Adam Levine: Keeps hair with side volume, avoids extreme height

• Ben Affleck: Short styles with side texture, not slicked back

Makeup Techniques for Oblong Face Shape

Makeup creates the illusion of different proportions. Strategic application shortens face length and adds width.

Contouring for Long Face Shape

Contour reduces perceived length. Apply shadow to areas you want to recede visually.

Contour placement for oblong faces:

1. Top of forehead: Apply contour along hairline to reduce forehead height

2. Under chin: Shade jawline bottom to shorten lower face

3. Sides of face (optional): Light contour if needed for definition

Use a matte bronzer or contour product two shades darker than your skin. Blend thoroughly to create natural shadows.

Highlighting Strategy

Highlight draws attention to specific areas. For oblong faces, focus on mid-face rather than forehead or chin.

Apply highlighter to:

• Top of cheekbones (adds width)

• Bridge of nose (center focus)

• Cupid's bow (horizontal emphasis)

Avoid highlighting:

• Center of forehead (adds height)

• Chin tip (adds length)

Blush Placement for Oblong Faces

Blush application creates width. Apply horizontally across apples of cheeks. Extend outward toward temples.

Use a wider application area than you would for other face shapes. This creates horizontal emphasis that balances vertical length

Blush Technique

Smile naturally. Apply blush to apples of cheeks. Blend horizontally toward ears in a sweeping motion. Avoid blending upward toward temples, as this creates vertical lines

Eye Makeup for Balance

Eye makeup draws attention to mid-face. This creates visual interest away from face length.

Effective techniques:

• Extend eyeshadow slightly outward at outer corners

• Use horizontal application rather than vertical

• Line upper and lower lash lines for width

• Keep brow tails slightly extended

Lip Color Choices

Bold lip colors draw attention inward. This reduces focus on face length.

Choose vibrant shades in reds, berries, or bright pinks. These create a focal point at mid-to-lower face without emphasizing vertical length

Accessories for Oblong Face Shape

Accessories add width and break up vertical lines. Choose pieces that create horizontal emphasis.

Glasses for Oblong Faces

Eyeglasses change face proportions immediately. Select frames that add width and visual weight.

Best frame styles:

• Round or oval frames: Curved shapes soften angular lines

• Oversized frames: Large lenses add width across face

• Deep frames: Vertical depth creates horizontal emphasis

• Decorative temples: Detail at sides adds visual interest

• Cat-eye frames (moderate): Upswept corners add width without height

Frame height matters more than for other face shapes. Choose frames with good vertical depth to break up face length

Frame Selection Rule

Choose frames that are at least one-third the height of your face from forehead to chin. This creates proper proportion and balance

Frames to avoid:

• Narrow rectangular frames (emphasize length)

• Small frames (make face look longer)

• Aviators with extreme drop (add vertical lines)

Earrings for Oblong Faces

Earrings should add width, not length. Choose styles that extend horizontally.

Flattering earring styles:

• Stud earrings: Create focal points without adding length

• Clustered designs: Multiple elements add visual width

• Wide chandelier styles: Horizontal spread balances face

• Button or disc earrings: Round shapes soften angular features

• Short drop earrings: Minimal vertical extension

Avoid:

• Long, linear drop earrings

• Thin vertical dangles

• Overly elongated styles

Hats and Headwear

Hats can balance or emphasize face length. Choose styles with medium crowns and wider brims.

Recommended hat styles:

• Wide-brimmed hats (add horizontal lines)

• Berets (sit low, don't add height)

• Cloche hats (rounded, not tall)

• Beanies worn low on forehead

• Fedoras with medium crowns

Avoid very tall hats or styles with high crowns. These add vertical dimension that emphasizes length

Necklaces and Scarves

Necklaces create horizontal lines across your chest and neck. Choose shorter lengths that sit high.

Best necklace styles:

• Chokers (16 to 18 inches)

• Princess length (18 to 20 inches)

• Layered necklaces at similar heights

• Wide collar necklaces

• Statement pieces with horizontal spread

Skip very long necklaces that hang below bust line. These create vertical lines that add length.

Scarf styling:

• Wrap horizontally around neck

• Use wider scarves for more coverage

• Avoid long, thin scarves that hang straight down

Clothing and Necklines for Oblong Face Shape

Clothing necklines frame your face. Choose styles that create horizontal lines and add visual width.

Necklines to Choose

Horizontal necklines shorten perceived face length. They create strong lines across your upper body.

Best neckline styles:

• Crew neck: Round neckline sits at base of neck

• Boat neck: Wide, horizontal opening across collarbone

• Square neck: Angular horizontal line

• Off-shoulder: Exposes shoulders horizontally

• Turtleneck: High coverage shortens neck appearance

• Sabrina neckline: Wide, elegant horizontal opening

Neckline Principle

Choose necklines that run horizontally across your body. These create visual breaks that reduce perceived face length

Necklines to Limit

Deep V-necks and plunging necklines add vertical lines. These emphasize face length.

Use sparingly:

• Deep V-necks

• Scoop necks (very deep)

• Plunging necklines

• Long pendant necklaces with these styles

If you wear these necklines, add a horizontal necklace or scarf to create balance

Patterns and Accessories

Patterns affect proportions. Horizontal patterns add width. Vertical patterns add length.

Choose:

• Horizontal stripes

• Wide geometric patterns

• Paisley or circular designs

• Color blocking (horizontal sections)

Avoid:

• Vertical stripes

• Narrow pinstripes

• Vertical color blocking

Jewelry and Collar Styles

Collars frame your face. Choose styles that sit high and wide.

Recommended collar styles:

• Peter Pan collars

• Wide spread collars

• Mandarin collars

• Ruffled or bow collars

Fashion Balance: Your clothing creates context for your face. Horizontal lines and width-adding elements bring your elegant features into balanced proportion

1. How do I identify if I have an oblong face shape?

You have an oblong face shape if your face length is at least 1.5 times your face width, your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline share similar widths, and the sides of your face appear straight from temple to jaw. These traits distinguish oblong faces from oval or round shapes.

2. What is the difference between an oblong and oval face shape?

Oblong faces have straight sides and a taller vertical appearance, while oval faces feature curved sides, softer jawlines, and slightly wider cheekbones. If your face looks long and straight from top to bottom, you most likely have an oblong shape.

3. How is an oblong face different from a rectangular face?

Oblong faces have balanced widths and softer jawlines. Rectangular faces also run long, but feature a more angular, squared jaw. Both shapes share length, but the jawline defines the difference.

4. What measurements confirm an oblong face shape?

If your face length divided by your face width equals 1.5 or higher, you have an oblong shape. Equal forehead, cheekbone, and jaw widths further reinforce this face type.

5. What hairstyles are best for an oblong face?

The best hairstyles for oblong faces add width and reduce vertical length. Styles like shoulder-length cuts, soft waves, chin-length bobs, layered pixies, and side-swept looks create balanced proportions.

6. Which hairstyles should people with oblong faces avoid?

Avoid hairstyles that add height or vertical lines, such as high buns, slicked-back looks, long straight hair with a center part, and very short cuts without bangs. These emphasize facial length.

7. Do bangs suit an oblong face shape?

Yes. Bangs are one of the most effective ways to visually shorten an oblong face. Curtain bangs, blunt bangs, eyebrow-length fringe, and side-swept bangs all work well.

8. How should I contour an oblong face?

Contour along the top of your forehead and the underside of your chin to visually reduce length. Light contouring along the sides can add subtle definition without elongating the face.

9. Where should I apply highlighter for an oblong face?

Highlight the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid’s bow. Avoid highlighting the center of your forehead or chin, as this enhances length.

10. What is the best blush placement for an oblong face shape?

Apply blush horizontally across the apples of your cheeks and blend outward. This technique adds width and balances the face visually.

11. Which glasses look best on oblong faces?

Round, oval, oversized, deep-set, and moderately cat-eye frames add width and break up length. Avoid narrow rectangular frames, which make the face appear longer.

12. What earrings flatter an oblong face?

Studs, clusters, discs, wide chandelier earrings, and short drops add width without emphasizing vertical lines. Avoid long dangle earrings that elongate the face.

13. What hats suit an oblong face shape?

Wide-brimmed hats, berets, cloche hats, medium-crown fedoras, and low-sitting beanies complement oblong faces. Avoid tall crowns or high-profile hats that add height.

14. What necklines are best for an oblong face?

Crew, boat, square, off-shoulder, and Sabrina necklines create horizontal balance. Turtlenecks also shorten the neck area, visually balancing facial length.

15. Which clothing patterns work best for an oblong face shape?

Horizontal stripes, wide geometric patterns, circular prints, and horizontal color-blocking add width. Avoid vertical stripes or long pendant necklaces that elongate your frame.