If your face is longer than it is wide, with a forehead, cheekbones, and jawline that could stand in for a ruler, congratulations—you’re sporting a rectangle face shape. Think Josh Duhamel or Henry Cavill; you’re in good company.
But why does face shape matter? It’s your style foundation. Understanding it is like having a personal stylist guiding your grooming choices. From selecting the most flattering haircut to choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses, your face shape informs it all.
Ready to make the most of your angular assets? Let’s start enhancing your rectangle face shape, turning heads for all the right reasons. Grab a mirror, gents—class is in session.
In This Article
Rectangle Face Shape Cheat Codes
For those short on time but big on style, here’s your quick guide to mastering the rectangle face shape.
Opt for hairstyles that add volume on top and sides, like a textured quiff or side-swept cut, to balance your face’s length. When it comes to facial hair, keep it fuller on the chin to offset your elongated features. For eyewear, round or oval frames are your best bet, softening your angular lines.
Remember, your rectangle face shape is versatile—these tips are just the starting point for your style journey.
Quick Tips for Rectangular Radiance
- Experiment with side parts to break up the symmetry.
- Beard it up, but keep it shorter on the sides and fuller on the chin.
- Round-neck tees are your sartorial soulmates.
- Accessorize with abandon—scarves and necklaces draw the eye vertically.
What Is a Rectangle Face Shape? (Spoiler: It’s Not a Minecraft Character)
A rectangle face shape is characterized by a face length that’s noticeably longer than its width, with your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline of similar widths. Imagine your face as a sophisticated, elongated rectangle—it’s all about balanced proportions with a touch of extra length. It works for actor Adam Driver and NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo, and it will work for you, too.
Remember this gem from math class? “All squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares.” You, having a rectangle face shape, are not a square. Unlike your square-faced counterparts, you’ve got a bit more vertical real estate to work with. Your forehead, cheeks, and jaw tend to form straight lines rather than curves, giving you those enviable chiseled features. (Take that, squares!) It’s a face shape that’s both striking and versatile, providing an excellent canvas for various styles.
How to Tell If You’ve Got a Rectangle Face
To determine whether you have a rectangle face shape, grab a flexible tape measure and a mirror. Here’s what to measure:
- Face length: From the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin.
- Forehead width: Across the widest part, usually about halfway between your eyebrows and hairline.
- Cheekbone width: The distance across your upper cheeks, typically just below the outer corner of each eye.
- Jawline width: From the tip of your chin to below your ear (where your jaw angles upward), then multiply by two.
If your face length is the largest measurement, and the other three measurements are similar to one another, you’re likely sporting a rectangle face shape. The key is that your face is noticeably longer than it is wide, with relatively straight sides and minimal curves at the corners – all the more real estate to play with in terms of crafting a winning presentation.
Remember, these are guidelines, not strict rules. Face shapes can be subtle, and you might have characteristics of more than one shape. The goal is to understand your features so that you can make informed style choices, not just fit into a rigid category.
Rectangle Face Shape Quick Style Guide
| Category | Recommended Styles | Not Recommended Styles |
|---|---|---|
| Hairstyles | Textured Crop, Side-swept Styles, Classic Short Back and Sides, Messy Tousled Looks, Fringe Styles | Pompadour, Flat Top, Long Straight Hair, Slicked Back Hair |
| Mustache | Chevron, Walrus, Handlebar, Beardstache, Hungarian | Pencil Thin, Thin Handlebar |
| Beard | Full Beard with Rounded Bottom, Circle Beard, Short Stubble, Bandholz, Ducktail | Chinstrap, Goatee with Sharp Edges |
| Sunglasses | Round Frames, Aviators, Wayfarers, Oversized Square Frames, Cat-Eye Shapes | Rectangle Frames, Narrow Frames |
Hairstyles for Rectangle Face Shapes: Creating Balance
When styling hair for a rectangle face shape, the goal is to add width while avoiding excessive height or length. Let’s explore some widely recommended styles:
Textured Crop: Adding Width Without Height
A textured crop can soften the angles of a rectangular face while adding perceived width. David Beckham, in one of his many incarnations, rocked a textured crop.
Why it works: This style adds volume at the sides without increasing face length.
Styling tips:
- Keep the top textured but relatively short.
- Allow for some fullness on the sides.
- Use a matte product for a natural, effortless look.
Side-swept Styles: Breaking Up Length
Side-swept styles can help break up the length of a rectangle face. Prime examples in the public eye include Ryan Gosling and Leonardo DiCaprio.
Benefits: It creates asymmetry and adds width to the sides of your face.
How to style:
- Part hair to one side.
- Keep volume low on top.
- Allow for some fullness on the sides.
Classic Short Back and Sides: A Versatile Option
When done right, a short back and sides can work well for rectangle faces.
Why it’s great: Maintains some fullness on the sides while keeping the top neat.
Styling steps:
- Ask your barber not to take the sides too short.
- Keep some length on top, but avoid excessive height.
- Style with a side part for added dimension.
Messy, Tousled Looks: Softening Angular Features
Messy, tousled styles can help soften the sharp angles of a rectangle face. If Sam Claflin doesn’t mind the tousled look, then you shouldn’t, either.
Perfect for: Adding texture and dimension without emphasizing length.
How to achieve:
- Keep hair at a medium length all over.
- Use texturizing products for a piece-y, undone look.
- Avoid slicking hair back or creating too much height on top.
Fringe Styles: Shortening Face Length
A fringe can effectively shorten the appearance of a long face. Witness Rami Malek.
Why it works: It breaks up the length of the face by partially covering the forehead.
Styling tips:
- Opt for a textured fringe rather than a blunt cut.
- Keep the sides full to balance the overall look.
Remember, the key for rectangle face shapes is to avoid styles that add too much height on top or take the sides too short. The goal is to create the illusion of width while softening angular features. Always consult with your hairstylist to find the best variation of these styles for your specific face shape and hair type.
Beard Styles for Rectangle Face Shapes: Facial Hair or Face Architect?
When it comes to facial hair for rectangle face shapes, the goal is to add width and soften your angular jawline. Let’s explore some beard styles that will complement your facial structure and how to maintain them.
The Full Beard with Rounded Bottom: Softening Your Angles
A full beard with a rounded bottom is an excellent choice for rectangle face shapes. The key is to avoid trimming the sides too short. You want to maintain width while controlling length.
Why it works: The fullness adds dimension to your face, and the rounded bottom softens your strong jawline.
Grooming tips:
- Allow your beard to grow for 4–6 weeks before shaping.
- Keep the sides full but trim them regularly to maintain shape.
- Round the bottom of your beard, avoiding a pointed or square finish.
- Use beard oil daily to keep hair soft and manageable.
The Circle Beard: Focusing Attention
Also known as the “corporate beard,” the circle beard combines a mustache and a rounded goatee. You could even let the circle beard grow slightly fuller. This adds more dimension to the face without overpowering your features. Will Smith is fond of this beard style.
Benefits: Adds focus to the center of your face, breaking up its length without emphasizing width.
How to achieve and maintain:
- Grow out your beard for about two weeks.
- Connect your mustache to a rounded goatee.
- Keep the cheeks clean-shaven.
- Trim regularly to maintain a neat, defined shape.
Short Stubble: The Low-Maintenance Option
Short stubble can add texture and definition to your face without dramatically altering its shape.
Perfect for: Guys who want a rugged look without the commitment of a full beard.
How to maintain:
- Use a beard trimmer with adjustable settings.
- Aim for a length between 2 and 4 mm.
- Trim every 2–3 days to maintain the perfect stubble length.
- Keep your neckline and cheeklines tidy for a deliberate, stylish look.
The Bandholz: For Maximum Impact
If you can grow substantial facial hair, then the Bandholz beard can be a statement-making choice for rectangle face shapes. Just ensure that you keep the sides full to maximize the widening effect.
Why it works: This full beard style can dramatically reshape your face, masking the rectangular structure and creating a more oval appearance.
Grooming requirements:
- Allow your beard to grow for at least 4–6 months.
- Use beard oil and balm daily to keep hair healthy and manageable.
- Brush your beard regularly to train the hair and evenly distribute oils.
- Trim occasionally to maintain shape, but resist the urge to over-groom.
The Ducktail: Elongating with Style
The Ducktail beard, fuller on the chin and tapered on the cheeks, can be an excellent choice for rectangle face shapes.
Benefits: Adds length to the bottom of your face while maintaining width, creating a more balanced appearance.
How to achieve:
- Grow your beard for at least two months.
- Keep the cheeks trimmed and tapered.
- Allow the chin area to grow longer, shaping it to a point.
- Use beard balm or wax to control and shape the longer hairs.
Remember, the key to any beard style is regular maintenance and good grooming habits. Invest in quality beard care products and tools, and don’t be afraid to visit a professional barber for initial shaping or occasional tune-ups. Your beard should enhance your natural features, not overpower them.
Mustache Styles: Because Your Upper Lip Deserves the Spotlight
For rectangle face shapes, the goal is to add width to the face while avoiding styles that emphasize length. Let’s explore some mustache styles that work well for your face shape:
The Chevron: Classic and Balanced
Why it works: The Chevron adds width to your mid-face, helping to balance out the length of a rectangle shape. It did wonders for Tom Selleck back in the day – heck, for his whole career.
Grooming tips:
- Allow 4–6 weeks of growth for full coverage.
- Keep the edges aligned with the corners of your mouth for optimal width.
- Trim along your lip line daily to maintain neatness.
Product suggestion: Try a quality mustache wax (like Death Grip Mustache Wax) to keep those hairs in line without the dreaded ‘crunch’ effect.
The Walrus: Bold and Face-Filling
Benefits: This big, bold style adds significant width to your face, helping to balance your rectangular proportions.
How to style:
- Allow for at least 6 months of growth.
- Comb the hair straight down, avoiding curled edges.
- Let it cover the top lip and potentially flow onto the bottom lip.
Maintenance tip: Regular conditioning is key to avoid the “Steel Wool” look.
The Handlebar: Adding Width with Style
Why it suits: The Handlebar adds playful width to your upper face, helping to break up the length of a rectangle shape.
Styling steps:
- Grow your mustache for several months to achieve the necessary length.
- Use a strong-hold wax to train the ends upward.
- Comb through daily to distribute natural oils and maintain shape.
Pro tip: For rectangle faces, aim for a wider handlebar to help visually broaden your face.
The Beardstache: Balancing Act
Perfect for: Adding bulk to the center and lower part of your face, balancing out the length of a rectangle shape.
How to achieve:
- Grow a full beard, then trim it down to heavy stubble.
- Keep the mustache full and prominent.
- Maintain the stubble at a consistent length with regular trimming.
Must-have tool: Invest in a good-quality beard trimmer with multiple length settings like the BaBylissPRO FX.
The Hungarian: Go Big or Go Home
Why it works: This prominent style adds significant width to your face, perfect for balancing a rectangular shape.
Styling tips:
- Grow for at least 4 months to achieve the necessary length.
- Allow for natural, swooping handles that sit lower on the cheeks.
- Use mustache wax to shape, but aim for a more natural look than the classic handlebar.
Sunglasses for Rectangle Face Shapes: Frame Your Face Like a Pro
Gents, let’s talk about throwing some serious shade—the stylish way. When it comes to sunglasses for rectangle face shapes, it’s all about balance and proportion. The right frames can soften your angular features, add width where you need it, and turn your geometric blessing into a fashion statement. Let’s dive into the styles that’ll have you looking sharp enough to make even your reflection do a double-take.
Round Frames: Softening Angles Since Forever
Why they work: Round frames are the yin to your facial yang. They contrast beautifully with your strong angles, creating a harmonious balance that’ll have people wondering if you’ve got a cousin in the fashion business.
Style tip: Go for metal frames for a classic look or chunky acetate for a more fashion-forward vibe. Check out the Meller Siara.
“Round frames can instantly soften a strong jawline,” says eyewear designer Tom Ford. “They’re like the Swiss Army knife of sunglasses for rectangle faces.”
Aviators: Because Top Gun Never Goes Out of Style
Benefits: Wide frames balance your face length, and the teardrop shape adds a subtle curve to your angular features. Plus, they make you look like you could land a fighter jet, even if you struggle with parallel parking.
Fashion forward: Try colored or mirrored lenses to add a contemporary twist to this classic style. Start with Ray-Bans.
Remember, as style guru Nick Wooster says, “Aviators are like pizza—even when they’re bad, they’re still pretty good.”
Wayfarer-Inspired Shapes: Retro Cool Meets Modern You
Why wayfarers are great: The slightly angular shape adds width to your face, and the chunky frame balances your strong features. It’s like a face lift (minus the surgeon’s bill).
Style it up: Pair these with a crisp white tee and dark jeans for an effortlessly cool look that screams “off-duty celebrity.”
Oversized Square Frames: Go Big or Go Home
Perfect for: Making a statement while balancing your proportions. These frames add width to your face and can make it appear shorter—it’s optical illusion meets high fashion.
Pro tip: Keep the rest of your accessories minimal when rocking these statement pieces. Let your shades do the talking. Have a peek at these from Gtand.
Cat-Eye Shapes: A Little Feline Flair
Why not: Add some curves and draw attention upward. The upswept shape can create the illusion of higher cheekbones—who needs contour when you’ve got the right shades? Like these, from Dollger.
Style suggestion: Embrace the retro vibe with a modern twist. Pair these with a sleek, fitted suit for a look that says, “I time-traveled from the ’50s, but make it modern.”
Product Recommendations: Your Face Shape’s New Best Friends
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BabylissPro
Trimmer and Shaver
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- Hair: Hanz de Fuko Claymation—for texture that defies gravity (and expectations).
- Beard: Jack Black Beard Oil—because your facial hair deserves a spa day, too.
- Skin: Kiehl’s Facial Fuel—energizing moisture for your angular canvas.
- Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Round Metal—curve appeal for your linear lines.
- Grooming Tool: BaBylissPRO FX—precision for your facial topiary.
- Mustache: Death Grip Mustache Wax—For when you want that mustache to keep its shape.
What’s Next? Beyond the Rectangle
Congratulations! You’re ready to make your rectangle face shape stand out.
But why stop there? Apply these geometric insights to your whole wardrobe. Experiment with collar shapes and tie widths, and hey, maybe even dabble in the wild world of lapel pins. Your rectangle face is your own personal style weapon—now go forth and conquer the style world, you walking work of art!
FAQ
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Is water wet? Is the sky blue? Of course, it’s attractive! With a lineup including Josh Duhamel, Henry Cavill, and basically half of Hollywood’s elite, the rectangle face shape is practically the VIP section of facial geometry.
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The main differences are:
- Length: Rectangle faces are noticeably longer than oval faces.
- Width: Oval faces have gently curved sides; rectangle faces have straighter, more parallel sides.
- Jawline: Rectangle faces typically have a more angular jawline; oval faces have a softer, more rounded jawline.
- Forehead: Both shapes often have similar forehead widths, but the rectangle’s forehead corners may be more angular.
- Overall Shape: Oval faces are about 1.5 times longer than wide, with a curved silhouette; rectangle faces are longer, with more parallel sides and defined angles.
These differences impact styling choices significantly. Think Henry Cavill (rectangle) vs. Ryan Gosling (oval). Rectangle faces often benefit from styles that add width, whereas oval faces can carry a wider variety of looks because of their balanced proportions.
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Absolutely! It’s like the supermodel version of the rectangle—a little longer, a little leaner, but still part of the club. Embrace it, work it, own it. After all, many of the world’s top models rock this elongated look!
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Joe Niehaus 
Dan Hughes