In the world of face shapes, the diamond face shape is a rare and striking gem. Defined by its dramatic, high cheekbones—the widest point of the face—flanked by a narrower forehead and a tapered chin, this diamond face shape represents supermodel angles and sculptural beauty. If you've identified this as your own, congratulations. You don't have a "problem" face shape; you have an architectural diamond face shape.
Forget the one-size-fits-all advice. This guide is dedicated to the art of styling a diamond face shape. We'll explore how to soften where needed, celebrate your killer diamond face shape bone structure, and choose styles with the precision of a couture designer for diamond face shape features.
Is It Diamond Face Shape? The Definitive Checklist
The diamond face shape is often confused with heart or oval shapes. Here's how to know for sure—this is about geometry and prominence.
- Cheekbones are the Star: This is the most critical checkpoint. Are your cheekbones the widest part of your face? Measure across your cheekbones and compare it to the width of your forehead and jaw. The cheekbone measurement should be noticeably larger.
- Narrower Top & Bottom: Both your hairline/forehead and your jawline are narrower than your cheekbones, creating a distinct diamond-like silhouette.
- Tapered Chin: Your chin is typically narrow and may come to a soft point, creating the bottom apex of the diamond.
The core styling philosophy for a diamond face shape is twofold: 1) add softness and volume to the narrower forehead and jawline, and 2) showcase—don't hide—those magnificent cheekbones. For a precise identification of your facial structure, our Face Shape Detect AI provides professional-grade analysis in seconds.
Sculptural Haircuts for a Diamond Face Shape
Your haircut should act as the perfect frame for your facial structure. We want to build softness in the right places without obscuring your best features.
Mid-Length Cuts & Lobs with a Side Part
A deep side part is a powerful tool. It sweeps across the forehead, creating the illusion of width and softness.
- Tousled Lob: A collarbone-length cut with soft waves adds volume around the chin, balancing the narrowness of your jaw. This is arguably the most flattering cut for a diamond face shape.
- Chin-Length Bob: A soft, chin-length bob that curls inward can beautifully cup the jawline, adding width and a feminine feel.
The Art of Layers and Bangs
Layers and bangs can soften the angles and add fullness to the forehead.
- Face-Framing Layers: Ask your stylist for soft, flowing layers that begin around the chin. This draws the eye downward and adds movement to the lower half of your face.
- Curtain or Side-Swept Bangs: A long, wispy fringe that can be swept to the side is ideal. It softens the forehead without creating a hard, horizontal line, allowing your cheekbones to remain the focal point. Avoid a heavy, full blunt bang, which can make the top of your face feel boxed-in.
Playing with Length
If you love long hair, the key is incorporating layers and movement. One-length, flat hair will only emphasize the narrowness of your chin and forehead. For shorter styles, a textured pixie cut with some volume on top and softer sideburns can look incredibly chic.
Diamond Face Shape Makeup: Highlighting vs. Contouring
For a diamond face shape, makeup is less about dramatic reshaping and more about strategic light play.
- Contour with a Light Hand: The one place to contour is just beneath your cheekbones, but blend it carefully. Your cheekbones are already prominent; the goal is to define, not hollow. Avoid contouring the sides of your forehead, as this will make it appear narrower.
- Highlight for Width: This is your secret weapon. Apply a luminous highlighter to the center of your forehead and the center of your chin. This brings these areas forward, creating the illusion of more width and balancing the face. Of course, a touch on the high points of the cheekbones will make them pop beautifully.
- Brows are Key: A gently curved or arched brow helps to soften the angularity of the diamond face shape and can help to lift and widen the appearance of the forehead.
Diamond Face Shape Glasses: Choosing Frames that Complement
Glasses can be a stunning accessory if you choose shapes that work with your bone structure.
- Browline and Cat-Eye Frames: These are your best options. Frames that have detailing, color, or thickness on the top half (like a browline or semi-rimless style) help to visually widen the forehead. A gentle upswept cat-eye shape also works beautifully to lift the face and balance the cheekbones.
- Oval and Round Shapes: To add softness to your angular features, consider frames with rounded edges. Oval frames are a particularly harmonious choice for a diamond face shape.
- Avoid Narrow Frames: Steer clear of frames that are narrower than your cheekbones, as they will exaggerate the width of your mid-face.
By understanding the unique architecture of your diamond face shape, you can move beyond generic beauty rules and curate a look that is both balanced and breathtakingly unique.