Have you ever heard someone describe someone’s face as “Teletubby-shaped” and wondered what that even means?
You’re not alone!
In recent years, the term “Teletubby face shape” has become a trending phrase on social media, memes, and beauty forums. While it may sound like just another internet joke, there’s actually more to it than you might think.
In this post, we’ll explore what the Teletubby face shape really is, where it originated, why it’s going viral, and how people are reacting to it in the beauty and fashion world.
Let’s dive into this delightfully odd topic.
What Are Teletubbies?
To understand the “Teletubby face shape,” we first need to go back to the origin of the Teletubbies themselves.
Teletubbies is a British children’s TV show that debuted in 1997. It features four colorful characters—Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa, and Po—who live in a magical land filled with sunshine, laughter, and baby-faced TVs in their bellies.
But what stands out most?
Their adorably chubby, round, smooth faces with minimal definition and childlike features.
These baby-like facial traits are what inspired the nickname.
What Is a Teletubby Face Shape?
The “Teletubby face shape” refers to a round, full, and soft facial appearance that resembles the faces of the characters from the show.
Here are some of the defining features:
- Round overall shape with no strong jawlines
- Chubby cheeks that stand out even when not smiling
- Minimal facial contours (like cheek hollows or visible jaw definition)
- A baby-like or cartoonish aesthetic
- Often described as cute, soft, or plushy-looking
It’s not an official face shape like oval, square, or heart-shaped. But it’s a pop-culture-inspired term people now use to describe this particular look.
Why Is the Teletubby Face Shape Trending?
There are a few reasons this face shape has become so popular (and polarizing) online.
1. Social Media Beauty Trends
Platforms like TikTok and Instagram love catchy, visual trends. The Teletubby face shape went viral thanks to creators comparing their faces to the characters and poking fun at themselves in a lighthearted way.
Some use filters that exaggerate roundness or soften features, making them look more like a Teletubby. Others proudly show off their naturally round features.
The phrase became both a meme and a compliment.
2. Shift in Beauty Standards
For years, sharp cheekbones and sculpted jaws dominated beauty ideals—think Kardashian-level contouring.
Now, a new wave is embracing natural softness, plump cheeks, and rounder facial features.
People are celebrating baby-faced looks and natural charm over heavy makeup and angles.
Enter: The Teletubby face.
3. Body Positivity and Facial Diversity
The term has also been embraced in body positivity movements, especially in communities that uplift chubby and fat faces.
People with fuller faces have long been underrepresented in fashion and beauty. By rebranding their look as “Teletubby face shape,” many are taking back the narrative in a fun, self-loving way.
Is It an Insult or a Compliment?
This one’s tricky.
For some, being told they have a “Teletubby face” is cute and affectionate—like being called cuddly or adorable.
For others, it may feel like a jab about weight or lack of definition.
It really depends on the tone and intent behind the comment.
Here’s how people typically take it:
| Situation | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Said in a playful or self-deprecating way | Funny or charming |
| Used by a stranger as a judgment | Rude or body-shaming |
| Celebrated in a fashion or makeup post | Trendy and positive |
| Mocking someone’s looks online | Offensive |
Like many internet trends, context is everything.
Celebrities with Teletubby Face Shape
Some celebrities are often praised for their soft and round facial features, which fit the Teletubby-style aesthetic.
Here are a few:
- Selena Gomez – Known for her round cheeks and youthful face
- Ariana Grande (pre-contour era) – Big eyes and soft jawline
- Millie Bobby Brown – Baby-face appeal and symmetrical roundness
- Dove Cameron – Full cheeks and minimal angles
These stars prove that the look can be elegant, beautiful, and on-trend.
Makeup Tips for Teletubby Face Shapes
If you’ve got a naturally round or full face, you can either embrace it or add definition with makeup—your choice!
If You Want to Embrace the Look:
- Go for blush-heavy styles to highlight your cheeks
- Try doll-like lashes and soft eyeshadow shades
- Use dewy foundations to enhance the plump skin effect
- Lean into glossy lips and sweet, innocent vibes
If You Want to Add Some Contour:
- Light contour under the cheekbones helps add dimension
- Highlight the center of the forehead and chin to elongate
- Use a bronzer along the jawline for a bit more shape
- Avoid heavy contouring that makes the face look unnatural
The best part about makeup? You can switch it up daily.
Fashion Tips for Teletubby Face Shapes
Styling around your face shape is a game-changer. Here’s how to complement a Teletubby-style round face.
Necklines That Flatter:
- V-necks elongate the neck and balance roundness
- Scoop necks soften the transition from face to shoulders
- Collars (like polo shirts) add structure
Hairstyles That Add Definition:
- Long layers frame the face without adding bulk
- Side parts create asymmetry and shape
- Top buns or high ponytails add vertical height
Avoid haircuts that end at your chin—they may exaggerate roundness unless layered well.
Can You Change a Teletubby Face Shape?
This is a hot topic, especially with the rise of fillers, buccal fat removal, and facial contouring.
Here’s the truth:
- Your face shape is mostly genetic.
- You can enhance or define it with makeup, hairstyles, and healthy lifestyle habits.
- Drastic changes involve cosmetic procedures, which should be carefully considered.
But honestly, many people are now learning to love and accept their natural face shape. The Teletubby label is becoming more of a celebration than a critique.
Teletubby Face Shape vs. Other Face Shapes
Let’s quickly compare the Teletubby face shape with classic face shapes:
| Face Shape | Traits | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Oval | Balanced and long | More defined than Teletubby |
| Round | Wide cheeks, soft edges | Closest match |
| Square | Strong jawline | Opposite of Teletubby shape |
| Heart | Pointy chin, wide forehead | More angular |
| Teletubby | Full cheeks, minimal angles | Roundest and softest |
It’s fair to say that the Teletubby shape is a subcategory of the round face, but with even more emphasis on fullness and cuteness.
Teletubby Face Shape Memes
One reason the phrase exploded online? The memes.
Some popular formats include:
- “Me after one cheat meal: Teletubby mode activated”
- Side-by-side comparisons of Teletubbies and selfies
- TikTok filters giving users Teletubby-like cheeks
While some of it is satire, much of it is done in good humor and self-love.
If you want to join in, just search #TeletubbyFace on TikTok or Instagram for laughs.
Final Thoughts
The “Teletubby face shape” might have started as a meme, but it’s grown into a real beauty trend.
It reflects a shift in how we see attractiveness—not everything has to be sharp, sculpted, or filtered.
Round, soft, plushy faces are cute, lovable, and unique. And like all face shapes, they deserve to be celebrated.
So whether you’re rocking a Teletubby face shape naturally or just love the aesthetic, own it with pride!
TL;DR: What Is the Teletubby Face Shape?
- Round, full, and soft facial features
- Inspired by the children’s TV show Teletubbies
- Popular on TikTok and social media
- Can be embraced naturally or enhanced with makeup
- Celebrated as part of changing beauty trends