Oblong Face Shape vs. Oval Face Shape — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 19, 2023
An Oblong Face Shape is longer than it is wide, often with a straight cheek line, while an Oval Face Shape has balanced proportions with a slightly longer length than width.
Difference Between Oblong Face Shape and Oval Face Shape
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An Oblong Face Shape is characterized by its elongated appearance, where the face length is the most pronounced feature. On the other hand, an Oval Face Shape is known for its harmonious balance, being slightly longer than it is wide.
Those with an Oblong Face Shape might notice that their forehead, cheeks, and jawline are of almost the same width. In contrast, the Oval Face Shape boasts a broader forehead and narrower jawline, creating a more symmetrical appearance.
The Oblong Face Shape usually has a straight cheek line, which may give a stretched-out impression. The Oval Face Shape, conversely, doesn't have pronounced angles, leading many to consider it the ideal face shape due to its versatility.
Hairstylists often suggest that those with an Oblong Face Shape opt for styles that add width to balance the face's length. Meanwhile, those with an Oval Face Shape have the flexibility to try a wide range of hairstyles, given its balanced proportions.
One might say that an Oblong Face Shape is an extended version of the Oval Face Shape. The main difference lies in the ratio of length to width, with oblong being more elongated.
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Comparison Chart
Length to Width Ratio
Significantly longer than wide
Slightly longer than wide
Forehead Width
Similar to cheek and jaw width
Broadest part of face
Jawline
Almost the same width as forehead and cheeks
Narrower than forehead
Cheek Line
Straighter
Gently rounded
Ideal Hairstyles
Styles that add width
Versatile; can suit many styles
Compare with Definitions
Oblong Face Shape
Extended version of an oval face.
For an Oblong Face Shape, width-adding hairstyles are often recommended.
Oval Face Shape
Considered the ideal face shape due to its balance.
With her Oval Face Shape, she could pull off both short and long hair.
Oblong Face Shape
An elongated facial structure with nearly even width throughout.
The width of his forehead, cheeks, and jaw were quite similar due to his Oblong Face Shape.
Oval Face Shape
A face slightly longer than it's wide.
His Oval Face Shape allowed him to experiment with various hairstyles.
Oblong Face Shape
A facial shape with a noticeable length.
She chose round earrings to complement her Oblong Face Shape.
Oval Face Shape
A face shape with a gently rounded jaw and cheekbones.
A center parting often complements an Oval Face Shape.
Oblong Face Shape
A face significantly longer than it's wide.
With her Oblong Face Shape, she preferred bangs to break the length.
Oval Face Shape
A symmetrical face with even proportions.
Sunglasses with angular designs typically suit an Oval Face Shape.
Oblong Face Shape
Face shape with straight cheek lines.
Side-parted hair often suits those with an Oblong Face Shape.
Oval Face Shape
Harmonious facial proportions with a broader forehead.
Her Oval Face Shape was accented beautifully with a high bun.
Common Curiosities
What's the main characteristic of an Oblong Face Shape?
An Oblong Face Shape is significantly longer than it's wide.
Which face shape is longer, Oblong or Oval?
The Oblong Face Shape is more elongated than the Oval Face Shape.
How can one determine their face shape?
Measuring the width of the forehead, cheekbones, jaw, and the face's length can help determine if one has an Oblong Face Shape or Oval Face Shape.
Is the Oval Face Shape considered versatile for hairstyles?
Yes, an Oval Face Shape is often considered versatile for various hairstyles due to its balanced proportions.
Are there any hairstyles to avoid for an Oblong Face Shape?
For an Oblong Face Shape, extremely long or volume-lacking hairstyles might further elongate the appearance.
Can bangs benefit an Oblong Face Shape?
Yes, bangs can break the length and benefit an Oblong Face Shape.
Is the Oval Face Shape the most common?
Not necessarily. While the Oval Face Shape is often deemed ideal due to its balanced proportions, its prevalence varies among populations.
What's the difference in jawline between Oblong and Oval Face Shapes?
An Oblong Face Shape has a jawline almost the same width as its forehead and cheeks, while an Oval Face Shape has a narrower jawline than its forehead.
Do face shapes change with age?
Yes, face shapes, be it Oblong Face Shape or Oval Face Shape, can change due to factors like weight fluctuation and aging.
Which face shape has a straighter cheek line?
The Oblong Face Shape typically has a straighter cheek line compared to the Oval Face Shape.
How can one minimize the elongated appearance of an Oblong Face Shape?
Adding width through hairstyles or makeup techniques can minimize the elongated look of an Oblong Face Shape.
Can makeup techniques accentuate an Oval Face Shape?
Yes, contouring and highlighting can further accentuate the symmetrical features of an Oval Face Shape.
Are there accessories to avoid for an Oblong Face Shape?
Long, dangling earrings might elongate an Oblong Face Shape further; opting for round or shorter earrings can be more flattering.
Is there a face shape that suits aviator glasses best?
Aviator glasses typically complement those with an Oval Face Shape due to their balanced proportions.
Do hair partings affect the appearance of face shape?
Yes, for instance, a center parting might enhance the symmetry of an Oval Face Shape, while a side parting might add width to an Oblong Face Shape.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
