Square Face Shape: Softening Strong Features
Styling tips and techniques to balance and soften strong jawlines and angular features. Makeup, hair, and accessory recommendations.
Square Face Shape: Softening Strong Features
Square faces are characterized by strong, angular features and equal width across the forehead, cheeks, and jawline. The goal isn't to hide these powerful features but to create balance and add softness while celebrating your natural strength and definition.
Understanding Square Face Characteristics
Key Features
- •Equal proportions: Forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are similar in width
- •Strong jawline: Well-defined, angular jaw
- •Broad forehead: Wide, often straight hairline
- •Minimal curves: Geometric, angular overall shape
- •Short face length: Width and length are approximately equal
Celebrities with Square Faces
- •Olivia Wilde
- •Keira Knightley
- •Sandra Bullock
- •Demi Moore
- •Gwyneth Paltrow
Hairstyling for Square Faces
Most Flattering Cuts
Long Layers
- •Soft, flowing layers: Add movement and curves
- •Side-swept bangs: Soften the forehead
- •Beach waves: Create natural, soft texture
Shoulder-Length Styles
- •Long bob with layers: Ends just below the jawline
- •Face-framing layers: Draw attention to the center of the face
- •Soft, textured waves: Add feminine curves
Short Styles with Volume
- •Textured pixie: Add height and movement on top
- •Asymmetrical cuts: Create visual interest and softness
- •Soft, wispy bangs: Avoid harsh, straight lines
Styling Techniques
- •Add volume at the crown: Creates length and balance
- •Soft, side-parted styles: Avoid severe center parts
- •Loose curls and waves: Soften angular features
- •Face-framing highlights: Draw attention inward
Styles to Avoid
- •Blunt cuts: Emphasize geometric shape
- •Straight, harsh bangs: Make forehead appear wider
- •Severe, slicked-back styles: Highlight angular features
- •Chin-length bobs: Cut at the widest part of the jaw
Makeup Techniques
Contouring for Square Faces
Softening the Jawline
- •Contour along the jaw edges: Use a soft brown shade
- •Blend upward: Create a softer transition
- •Highlight the chin center: Add dimension
Forehead Contouring
- •Soften corners: Contour the outer edges of the forehead
- •Round out the hairline: Blend foundation slightly above the natural hairline
- •Central highlighting: Draw attention to the center
Eye Makeup
- •Soft, rounded shapes: Avoid harsh geometric lines
- •Winged eyeliner: Create upward lift and softness
- •Curved eyebrow shapes: Soften with gentle arches
- •Warm, blended shadows: Avoid stark color blocks
Lip Techniques
- •Rounded lip shapes: Avoid sharp, angular lines
- •Soft, natural colors: Enhance without overpowering
- •Slight overlining: Create fuller, rounder lips
- •Glossy finishes: Add dimension and softness
Blush Application
- •Circular motions: Apply blush in round patterns
- •Soft, peachy tones: Complement strong features
- •Blend toward temples: Create lift and softness
Eyewear Selection
Flattering Frame Styles
- •Round or oval frames: Contrast angular features
- •Cat-eye shapes: Add upward lift
- •Soft, curved lines: Avoid geometric frames
- •Medium to large sizes: Balance strong features
Frame Details
- •Thin to medium thickness: Avoid overwhelming frames
- •Soft colors: Complement rather than compete
- •Curved temple designs: Echo the softening theme
Accessory Choices
Jewelry
- •Curved designs: Soft, flowing lines
- •Round or oval shapes: Contrast angular features
- •Drop earrings: Add length and movement
- •Delicate pieces: Balance strong bone structure
Scarves and Neckwear
- •Soft, flowing fabrics: Add texture and movement
- •Curved draping: Avoid sharp, geometric folds
- •Vertical lines: Create length and balance
Color Recommendations
Hair Colors
- •Warm tones: Golden browns, honey blondes
- •Multi-dimensional color: Highlights and lowlights add softness
- •Avoid harsh contrasts: Gradual color transitions
Makeup Colors
- •Warm, earthy tones: Complement strong features
- •Soft, muted shades: Avoid harsh, bold colors
- •Peachy and coral tones: Add warmth and femininity
Professional Styling Tips
Working with Stylists
- •Communicate your goals: Emphasize desire for softness
- •Bring inspiration photos: Show examples of soft styling
- •Discuss daily routine: Choose manageable styles
Gradual Changes
- •Start subtle: Make small adjustments before dramatic changes
- •Test techniques: Try new makeup methods gradually
- •Professional guidance: Consult experts for major changes
Building Your Beauty Routine
Daily Essentials
- •Soft styling products: Mousses and light-hold gels
- •Blending brushes: Essential for soft makeup application
- •Quality hair tools: Invest in tools that create smooth, soft styles
Special Occasion Looks
- •Romantic updos: Soft, loose styles with face-framing pieces
- •Elegant waves: Old Hollywood glamour with modern softness
- •Bold lips with soft eyes: Balance strong features thoughtfully
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Hair Styling Errors
- •Over-straightening: Can emphasize angular features
- •Tight, severe styles: Highlight rather than soften
- •Matching hairline exactly: Miss opportunities to create curves
Makeup Missteps
- •Harsh contouring: Can make features appear more angular
- •Geometric eyeshadow: Emphasizes square shape
- •Over-defined features: Too much definition can be overwhelming
Remember, the goal is enhancement, not transformation. Square faces possess natural strength and definition that many find enviable. The key is finding the right balance between your natural power and added softness to create a harmonious, beautiful look that feels authentically you.
Lisa Park
Expert Author
Beauty and styling expert with over 10 years of experience in the industry. Passionate about helping people discover their unique beauty through personalized recommendations.