by Yve Goodwin

Created on: March 03, 2011

The characteristics of a square shaped face include; a broad jaw-line and forehead with wide, angular cheekbones and chin.  In general, its overall shape and natural characteristics are angular.   Jewellery pieces can be worn to help balance your features, and soften your facial angles.  This will help to provide the illusion of added length, while camouflaging the broadness of your face. To help create a polished and well-balanced look, the choices in jewellery that you choose to wear should reflect these elements in their shapes and styles, (especially with pieces that are worn close to the face).

A necklace is one of the most expressive pieces of jewellery worn.  It can frame the face; draw attention to specific features (depending upon the length, size and style chosen), and accentuate personal style.  With a wide range of styles, shapes, sizes, materials and colours available, wearing a necklace is a great way to complete a look.

Wearing long t-style necklaces compliment a square face nicely; while at the same time create the illusion of length. Opera length necklaces (28” to 32”) are also flattering choices. Necklace styles that are in the shape of a “U” can create the illusion of a longer, leaner line; while softening an angular jaw-line.

It’s best to avoid wearing any chokers, collars, or short necklaces of any style (especially if you have a short neck).  Large pearls, stones and bulky/angular pieces tend to add visual weight to the neck area.  This can visually shorten the appearance of height, and accentuate a square facial shape (especially if you have a short neck).  However if it is necessary to wear a shorter style necklace, delicate styles and patterns tend to have a more relaxed style.

With so many different shapes and styles of earrings available: ovals, buttons, drop chandeliers, hoops, studs, posts, squares, diamonds, triangles, and hearts (just to name a few) the choices seem to be endless! That’s why it’s important to choose styles, shapes and sizes that both compliment your facial shape and accentuate your personal style. 

Wearing soft, round and circular shapes that are long and dangling will soften angular features (e.g. soft teardrop, or combination of curved and straight angles).  If you have a short neck, try wearing medium length styles instead.  Make sure to select shapes that are longer than they are wide.  Hoop earrings are fine, as long as they are long and narrow with a thin frame (if you have a short neck wear medium length styles).  Avoid small studded, flat or delicate styles; as well as any style of earrings that are angular (squares, diamonds, triangles, rectangles, etc.).  Long, dangling earrings that are narrow and straight, or angular will also appear insignificant around a square face.

Finally, the most important thing to remember when choosing jewellery for yourself is that you must feel comfortable.  Style is important, but do not put it above your own personal comfort. Always keep in mind that if you don’t feel comfortable with yourself, nothing else really matters.

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