Oval Face Shape: Characteristics, Hairstyles & Makeup Tips

The oval face shape is often considered the most versatile and balanced of all face shapes. With its harmonious proportions and gentle curves, oval faces can pull off a wide variety of styles with ease. If you have an oval face shape, you're in luck - this guide will show you how to make the most of your naturally balanced features.

Oval Face Shape Characteristics

Key identifying features of oval faces:

• Face length is about 1.5 times the width
• Forehead is slightly wider than the jawline
• Gently rounded jawline without sharp angles
• Cheekbones are the widest part of the face
• Balanced proportions throughout
• Soft, curved hairline

Best Hairstyles for Oval Faces

Oval faces can wear almost any hairstyle, but these options are particularly flattering:

Short Haircuts

• Pixie Cut: Highlights facial features beautifully
• Bob Cut: Classic and versatile, works at any length
• Layered Bob: Adds movement and texture

Medium Length Styles

• Shoulder-Length Layers: Perfect for showing off balance
• Blunt Cut: Creates clean lines that complement oval shapes
• Beach Waves: Soft texture enhances natural curves

Long Hair Options

• Long Layers: Maintains the face's natural balance
• Center Part: Emphasizes symmetry
• Side-Swept Bangs: Adds interest without overwhelming

Makeup Tips for Oval Faces

Enhance your natural features with these makeup techniques:

Contouring

While oval faces don't need much contouring, subtle techniques can enhance your features:

• Light contour along the hairline to minimize forehead width
• Soft shading under cheekbones for definition
• Highlight the center of forehead, chin, and under eyes

Blush Placement

Apply blush on the apples of your cheeks and blend upward toward your temples. This technique:

• Adds warmth and dimension
• Follows the natural curve of your cheekbones
• Creates a youthful, lifted appearance

Eyewear and Accessories

Choose accessories that maintain your face's natural balance:

Eyeglasses

• Rectangular Frames: Add structure to soft features
• Cat-Eye Frames: Complement the oval shape
• Aviator Styles: Work well with balanced proportions

Jewelry

• Statement Earrings: Draw attention to balanced features
• Delicate Necklaces: Don't overwhelm natural proportions
• Geometric Shapes: Add interesting angles to soft curves

Celebrities with Oval Face Shapes

Look to these celebrities for oval face shape inspiration:

• Beyoncé
• Jessica Alba
• Kate Middleton
• Rihanna
• Jennifer Aniston

Common Styling Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a versatile face shape, some styles can be less flattering:

• Heavy, straight-across bangs: Can make the face appear shorter
• Extremely voluminous hair: May overwhelm balanced features
• Over-contouring: Unnecessary and can look unnatural
• Oversized accessories: Can disrupt natural proportions