Aesthetics and spectacle wear: investigating perceived harmony between face shape and spectacle frame shape

Background

Several factors could contribute to the dislike of spectacle wear and aesthetics may be one of them. It is hypothesised that a mismatch between the shape of the face and the shape of the frame worn may have a negative impact on the perception of spectacle frame suitability. Currently, patients are being provided with contradicting advice, which if resolved, could improve spectacle wear acceptance.

Methods

Four studies were carried out. First, an internet review of unsolicited reasons, from internet users, for the dislike of spectacle wear was carried out, followed by an offline paper-based survey seeking open-ended reasons for dislike of spectacle wear from 150 participants (Age: 18 to 40 years). Thereafter, a study of facial shape classification of individuals from three racial backgrounds through objective measurements (Models: N=15) and subjective classification (Judges: N=150; Age: 18 to 40 years), was done. This was preceded by a preliminary study. Finally, a frame shape-face shape suitability study was carried out, whereby 27 photographs (Participants of 3 different face shapes, from 3 racial backgrounds, wearing 3 frame shapes) were rated (5-point Likert scale) by real-life participants (N=150). These observers were also of different gender and racial backgrounds.

Results and Conclusion

Inconvenience and Aesthetics were major categories of concern for the dislike of spectacle wear, both online and offline. Female subjects felt more negatively towards Aesthetics factors. In the third study, a facial shape classification algorithm was proposed, and findings indicated that round faces exhibit equivalence in height and width while square and oval faces have more angular facial outlines at the jawline and chin. Lastly, square frames were perceived as most suitable for square and oval faces, and both square and round frames were perceived as most suitable for oval faces. It was concluded that angular frames do not necessarily complement rounder features, and vice-versa. Racial background has an impact on the perception of frame-face shape suitability.