Oblong Face Shape
An oblong face shape (also called a long face) is noticeably longer than it is wide, usually 1.7× or more. The forehead, cheekbones and jaw are similar widths, the sides are fairly straight, and the jawline is gently rounded rather than sharp.
Check if you have an oblong face
Oblong face shape measurements
| Face length vs width | About 1.7× or more |
|---|---|
| Widest point | Even, no single widest point |
| Forehead | Often tall |
| Jawline | Rounded, similar width to forehead |
| Chin | Can be long |
How to tell if you have an oblong face
- Your face looks clearly long in photos, even when your hair is down.
- There's no obvious widest point; your face is fairly straight on both sides.
- Your jaw is rounded, not sharply angular (a sharp jaw suggests rectangle).
Oblong, long and rectangle: what's the difference?
"Long face" and "oblong face" mean the same thing. A rectangle face is a long face with a strong, angular jaw; an oblong face has a softer, rounded jaw. Both benefit from the same strategy: add width at the sides and avoid extra height.
Styling goal
Create the illusion of width. Fringes shorten a tall forehead, volume at the sides (waves, curls, layered bobs) adds width, and wide or deep glasses frames break up the length.
Oval vs oblong
If you're unsure whether you're oval or oblong, compare length to width. Oval is around 1.5×; oblong is closer to 1.7× or more with straighter sides. Read the full oval vs oblong comparison.
Best hairstyles for oblong faces (women)
- Blunt or curtain bangs: Bangs shorten a tall forehead and make the face look less long.
- Shoulder-length waves: Volume at the sides adds width where an oblong face needs it.
- Chin-length bob: A bob ending at the jaw creates a horizontal line that balances length.
- Layered shag: Choppy layers through the sides add width and movement.
- Voluminous curls: Curls spread outward rather than downward.
Best haircuts for oblong faces (men)
- Fringe or forward crop: Hair brushed forward shortens the forehead.
- Side part with fuller sides: Avoid skin fades; keeping some length at the sides adds width.
- Medium-length textured hair: Volume at the sides balances length.
- Classic short back and sides (not too tight): Neat but not stark.
- Caesar cut: A short horizontal fringe cuts the length of the face.
Beard styles for oblong faces
- Full beard, fuller on the sides: Width at the cheeks and jaw balances length.
- Mutton chops or wide stubble: Horizontal emphasis broadens the face.
- Avoid long chin beards: A long goatee or pointed beard adds even more length.
Best glasses for oblong faces
- Oversized frames: Large frames cover more of the face's length.
- Deep, tall lenses: Taller lenses break up vertical space.
- Decorative or contrasting temples: Add width at the sides.
- Round or square frames: Both work as long as they're deep enough.
Frames to avoid
- Small, narrow frames.
- Shallow rectangular frames that emphasize length.
Makeup and contouring for oblong faces
Apply bronzer along the hairline at the top of the forehead and under the chin to visually shorten the face. Sweep blush horizontally across the cheeks rather than up toward the temples.
Celebrities with oblong faces
- Sarah Jessica Parker
- Liv Tyler
- Gisele Bündchen
- Gwyneth Paltrow
- Kristen Stewart
- Adam Levine
- Benedict Cumberbatch
- Adrien Brody
Oblong vs similar face shapes
Oblong vs OvalAn oval face is shorter (about 1.5×) and tapers more toward the chin.
Oblong vs RectangleA rectangle face is just as long but has a sharp, angular jaw.
Oblong vs DiamondA diamond face has a narrow forehead and chin with wide cheekbones.
Frequently asked questions
What is an oblong face shape?
An oblong face is noticeably longer than it is wide, with forehead, cheekbones and jaw of similar width and a rounded jawline. It's also called a long face.
Is oblong the same as a long face?
Yes. Oblong and long face describe the same shape. A long face with a sharp, square jaw is called rectangle.
What haircut is best for an oblong face?
Bangs, shoulder-length waves, bobs and layered shags that add width. Men should keep some length at the sides and avoid tall styles.
What glasses suit an oblong face?
Oversized, deep frames that cover more of the face, plus frames with decorative temples to add width.
Is an oblong face attractive?
Yes. Long faces are common among models and actors, and they photograph well. The right styling balances length with width.