Oval vs Oblong Face Shape: How to Tell the Difference
An oval face is about 1.5× longer than it is wide and tapers gently from cheekbones to a rounded chin. An oblong face is longer, about 1.7× or more, with straighter sides and less taper. If your face looks long and the sides run fairly parallel, you're oblong.
Quick comparison
| Oval | Oblong | |
|---|---|---|
| Length vs width | ~1.5× | ~1.7×+ |
| Widest point | Cheekbones | Even |
| Sides | Curve inward toward the chin | Fairly straight |
| Forehead | Slightly wider than jaw | Similar to jaw, often tall |
The 30-second test
- Pull your hair back and look straight into a mirror.
- Hold a ruler or your phone horizontally across your cheekbones and note the width.
- Compare with the length from hairline to chin.
- If length ÷ width is about 1.5, you're oval. If it's 1.7 or more, oblong.
- Then check the sides: if they taper noticeably toward your chin, you're oval.
Or let the face shape detector do the measuring.
Does it matter?
Yes, a little. Oval faces suit almost anything, including height on top. Oblong faces look best with width at the sides and less height. If you're borderline, follow oblong advice when a style makes you look long.
Frequently asked questions
Is oblong the same as oval?
No. Oblong is longer with straighter sides; oval is shorter and tapers toward a rounded chin.
Which is more attractive, oval or oblong?
Neither. Both are common among models and actors.
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