Beard styles guide

Your Comprehensive Guide to Beard Styles (and Current Trends)

Welcome to the wonderful world of beard styles! You've stumbled upon this treasure trove of information because you understand that beard styles are not just a frivolous addition to your daily grooming routine. Oh no, they're so much more than that! Beards have the magical power to transform your look, boost your confidence, and provide a unique way for you to express yourself. In this article, we'll explore the myriad of beard styles available and help you choose the perfect one for your face shape. So, buckle up, folks! It's time to embark on a hairy journey.

In this article, we'll cover:

Importance of Beard Styles

Let's start by diving into why beard styles are such an essential part of personal grooming. First and foremost, a well-groomed beard can give you a confidence boost that rivals even the finest cup of coffee. You'll strut down the street feeling like the king of the world, knowing that you've chosen a style that speaks to your individuality. And when it comes to self-expression, your best beard style can be your ultimate canvas, allowing you to showcase your personality through the careful sculpting of your facial fuzz.

Not only do the best beard styles serve as a means of self-expression, but they can also work wonders in enhancing your facial features. Just as an interior designer strategically places furniture to create a balanced and harmonious space, you too can use your favorite beard styles to bring out the best in your face. It's like feng shui for your visage!

Let's not forget the rich history and cultural significance of beards. From ancient civilizations to modern-day hipsters, beards have been a symbol of wisdom, strength, and style throughout the ages. So, when you're rocking your beard, you're not just making a fashion statement – you're participating in a time-honored tradition.

The Role of Face Shape

Now that we've covered the importance of beard styles in personal grooming, it's time to tackle the task of choosing the right one for your face shape. To do this, you'll need to get acquainted with the different face shape categories: oval, round, square, rectangle, diamond, triangle, and heart. Picture yourself as an artist, and your face shape is the canvas upon which you'll create your bearded masterpiece.

Different shapes of your face

To determine your face shape, grab a flexible measuring tape and measure your forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and face length. Then, compare these measurements to find out which category you belong to. There are also numerous online tools and apps that can help you in this quest.

General Guidelines for Selecting Beard Styles

Once you've identified your face shape, it's time to follow a few general guidelines for selecting the perfect beard style. Think of these guidelines as the ultimate cheat sheet to achieving facial hair nirvana. For example, if you have a round face, your goal is to create the illusion of length and angles. On the other hand, if you have a square face, you'll want to soften those strong jawlines and chisel your way to a more balanced appearance.

Now that we've laid the groundwork for your beard style exploration, it's time for the fun part – experimenting with different styles and finding the one that makes you feel like a million bucks. So, go forth, brave beardsmith, and let your facial hair grow and flourish!

Exploring Popular Beard Styles

As we continue on this hairy adventure, let's take a closer look at some popular beard styles. We've divided them into four categories to make your life easier: stubble, short beard styles, medium beard styles, and long/full beard styles. So, grab your comb and trimmer, and let's begin our journey through the land of various facial hair styles.

Stubble "Beard" Styles

Ah, the classic stubble! The perfect starting point for any beard enthusiast. Stubble can range from a barely-there 5 o'clock shadow to a more rugged, heavy stubble that gives off those irresistible "I just spent a weekend in the wilderness" vibes. Stubble is a low-maintenance option for those who want a subtle but stylish look that says, "I'm effortlessly cool, and I didn't even try."

Short Beard Styles

Now, let's venture into the realm of short beard styles. These are perfect for those who want to make a statement without going full-on lumberjack.

Short Boxed Beard:

Boxed Beard


This well-groomed beard style covers the chin, jawline, and mustache area, keeping your facial hair looking neat and clean. Think of it as the "business casual" of beard styles.

Beardstache:

Beardstache


The beardstache is the lovechild of a beard and a mustache, with the mustache being the star of the show. It's a versatile option that can look rugged or sophisticated, depending on how you style it.

Goatee Variations:

Goatee


The goatee is a classic style that focuses on the chin and mustache areas, leaving your cheeks as smooth as a baby's bottom. With so many variations available, from the classic goatee to the extended goatee and the Van Dyke beard, you'll never run out of options to play with.

Chin Strap:

Chin Strap
The chin strap beard follows the jawline from one sideburn to the other, creating a "strap" of hair along the chin. It's a neat and stylish option for those who want to emphasize their jawline without committing to a full beard.

Chin Curtain:

Chin Curtain
The chin curtain is similar to the chin strap but extends up to the sideburns, creating a "curtain" of hair that frames the lower part of your face. This style can give you a more distinguished look, suitable for those who want to maintain a professional appearance.

Mutton Chops:

Mutton Chops
Mutton chops are an old-school beard style that features thick sideburns that extend down the cheeks, stopping just short of the chin. Think of them as the rebellious cousin of the short beard styles – perfect for those looking to add a dash of vintage charm to their look.

Friendly Mutton Chops:

Friendly Mutton Chops
Similar to the regular mutton chops, friendly mutton chops connect the sideburns to the mustache, forming a continuous line of hair across the cheeks. This style adds a touch of friendliness to the classic mutton chops, hence the name.

Anchor Beard:

Anchor Beard
The anchor beard style is a combination of a goatee and a chin strap, resembling the shape of an anchor. This nautical-inspired, beard hair style is perfect for those who want a distinct and unique look that sets them apart from the crowd.

Hollywoodian:

Hollywoodian
The Hollywoodian beard features a disconnected mustache and a beard that covers the chin and jawline, leaving the cheeks clean-shaven. This style exudes an air of classic Hollywood glamour, perfect for those who want to channel their inner movie star.

With this expanded list of short beard styles, you'll have no shortage of options to find the perfect style that complements your face shape and personal preferences. Remember, the key to rocking any beard style is confidence and proper grooming, so keep your short beard style well-maintained and wear it with pride!

Medium Beard Styles

For those ready to take their beard game to the next level, medium beard styles offer a balance between length and manageability. These styles will require a bit more grooming, but the payoff is worth it.

Full Beard:

Full Beard
The full beard is a timeless classic that covers the entire lower portion of the face. It's perfect for those who want to make a bold statement and exude an aura of rugged masculinity.

Corporate Beard:

Corporate Beard
The corporate beard is a well-groomed, medium-length beard that's perfect for the professional setting. It's like the full beard's sophisticated older brother who's climbed the corporate ladder and now wears a suit to work.

Balbo:

Balbo Beard
The Balbo is a stylish beard style that combines a mustache, chin hair, and soul patch but doesn't connect to the sideburns. It's perfect for those who want a distinguished look that's still unique and trendy.

Verdi Beard:

Verdi Beard
Named after the famous Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi, this beard style combines a full beard with a stylishly groomed mustache. The Verdi beard style is perfect for those who want a sophisticated and artistic look.

Circle Beard:

Circle Beard
The circle beard, also known as the standard beard, is a combination of a short rounded beard, goatee and a mustache. It's an excellent choice for those who want a clean, well-groomed beard style that can easily transition from the office to a night out on the town.

Napoleon III Imperial:

Napoleon Beard
This medium beard style features a bushy mustache and a chin beard that extends slightly beyond the chin, creating an "imperial" look. The Napoleon III Imperial is ideal for those who want to make a regal statement with their facial hair.

Sparrow:

Sparrow Beard
The Sparrow beard hair style is inspired by Johnny Depp's character Captain Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. This style consists of a mustache, a soul patch, and two braided chin straps. It's perfect for those who want to add a touch of swashbuckling charm to their appearance.

French Fork:

French Fork
The French fork beard is a distinguished medium-length beard style that showcases a prominent split down the middle of the chin, resulting in a "forked" appearance. This particular style, which incorporates the French fork not once, not twice, but thrice, exudes a sense of European sophistication that sets it apart from other bushy beard options. With its elegant flair, the French fork beard is the perfect way to elevate your facial hair game and make a refined statement.

Klingon Beard:

Klingon Beard
Inspired by the iconic Star Trek characters, the Klingon beard features a full, thick beard that's trimmed to create a distinct V-shape along the jawline. This style is perfect for sci-fi fans who want to boldly go where no beard has gone before.

With this extended list of medium beard styles, you're sure to find a look that fits your personality and face shape. As always, remember that proper grooming and maintenance are key to keeping your beard looking its best, no matter which style you choose.

Long Beard Styles

Finally, we've arrived at the pièce de résistance: long and full beard styles. These styles are for the true beard connoisseurs who aren't afraid to let their facial hair flourish.

Garibaldi:

Garibaldi


The Garibaldi is a full, bushy beard that's rounded at the bottom. With this beard, you'll look like you've just stepped off a ship after months at sea – in the best way possible.

Ducktail:

Ducktail Beard
The ducktail beard style is a long beard, tapered and resembling the tail of a duck. It's perfect for those who want a refined and distinguished look that still exudes a sense of adventure.

The Yeard:

Yeard
The Yeard is a long beard that's been grown out for a full year, resulting in a long, natural, and untamed look. It's perfect for those who want to channel their inner wild man and embrace the power of the beard.

The Wizard:

Wizard Beard
The Wizard beard is a long, flowing beard that exudes an air of wisdom and mystery. Perfect for those who want to channel their inner Gandalf or Dumbledore, this long beard style is sure to make a magical impression.

Viking Beard:

Viking Beard
The Viking beard is a long, full beard often adorned with beads or braids, reminiscent of the beard worn by the fierce Norse warriors of old. This style is perfect for those who want to showcase their inner warrior and embrace a rugged, adventurous look.

Bandholz Beard:

Bandholtz Beard

Named after beard aficionado Eric Bandholz, this beard style features a full, thick beard and a well-groomed mustache. The Bandholz beard, a long beard style, is perfect for those who want a stylish, well-maintained look that still showcases the full glory of their facial hair.

Natural Full Beard:

Natural Full Beard
The natural full beard is an untrimmed, long beard that grows freely, showcasing its true, untamed nature. This style is ideal for those who want to embrace a laid-back, low-maintenance look that still exudes confidence and masculinity.

The Old Dutch:

Old Dutch Beard
The Old Dutch beard style features a full, long beard that's squared off at the bottom and accompanied by a clean-shaven upper lip. This style is perfect for those who want a distinctive, vintage look that harkens back to the days of old.

The Rap Industry Standard:

Rap industry beard
The Rap Industry Standard beard is a versatile and effortlessly facial hair style, often characterized by a well-maintained slim beard paired with a sleek mustache. This iconic look conveys a sense of confidence and individuality, making it a popular choice among hip-hop artists and fans alike.

With this expanded list of long and full beard styles, you have even more options to choose from as you embark on your beard-growing journey. Remember that patience, proper grooming, and maintenance are key to achieving your desired look, no matter which long beard style or short beard style you choose. May your beard grow long and prosper!

The Mustache

Now that you've immersed yourself in the world of beards, it's time to pay homage to their equally impressive counterpart – the mustache. Mustaches can add a dash of character and sophistication to your facial hair game, whether you're rocking a full beard or going solo with a 'stache. Let's dive into some classic mustache styles, as well as some creative and unique options that are sure to turn heads.

Classic Mustache Styles

These timeless mustache styles have stood the test of time and continue to be popular choices for facial hair enthusiasts:

Chevron:

Chevron Mustache
The Chevron is a thick, full mustache that covers the entire upper lip. It's the Tom Selleck of mustaches, perfect for those who want a no-nonsense, manly look.

Handlebar:

Handlebar Mustache
The Handlebar mustache features long, curved ends that twist upward, resembling the handlebars of a bicycle. This dapper style is perfect for those who want to add a touch of vintage charm and whimsy to their appearance.

Horseshoe:

Horseshoe Mustache
The Horseshoe mustache is a full mustache that extends down the sides of the mouth, creating a U-shape similar to a horseshoe. It's the Hulk Hogan of mustaches, perfect for those who want to project strength and assertiveness.

Pencil:

Pencil Mustache
The Pencil mustache is a thin, neatly trimmed line of hair just above the upper lip. It's the Clark Gable of mustaches, exuding an air of sophistication and classic Hollywood glamour.

Walrus:

Walrus Mustache
The Walrus mustache is a thick, bushy mustache that hangs over the upper lip, much like the whiskers of its namesake animal. It's perfect for those who want a bold, distinctive look that commands attention.

Creative and Unique Mustache Styles

For those who want to step outside the box and experiment with more unconventional mustache styles, these options offer a truly unique look:

Dali:

Dali Mustache
Named after the eccentric artist Salvador Dali, this mustache features long, thin ends that curve dramatically upward. It's perfect for those who want to showcase their artistic flair and make a surreal statement.

English:

English Mustache
The English mustache is a neatly groomed mustache with long, straight ends that extend horizontally from the corners of the mouth. This refined style is perfect for those who want to channel their inner British gentleman.

Fu Manchu:

Fu Manchu
The Fu Manchu mustache is a distinctive style that features long, straight ends that hang down past the chin. It's perfect for those who want to embrace an exotic and daring look.

Hungarian:

Hungarian Mushache
The Hungarian mustache is a thick, bushy mustache that's tapered at the ends, giving it a slightly more polished appearance than the Walrus. It's perfect for those who want a bold, adventurous look with a touch of European flair.

Imperial:

Imperial Mushache
The Imperial mustache is a regal style that features a bushy mustache with upward-curled ends, often extending beyond the cheeks. It's perfect for those who want to make a royal statement and exude an air of nobility.

With these mustache styles in your arsenal, you're well-equipped to enhance your beard or create a stand-alone masterpiece. Whether you choose a classic mustache or opt for a more daring, unique look, remember that proper grooming and maintenance are essential to keep your 'stache looking its best. Happy mustache-growing!

Beard Grooming and Beard Growth Maintenance Tips

Now that you've chosen your ideal beard and mustache style, it's time to focus on the essential aspect of beard grooming and maintenance. After all, a well-groomed beard is the key to looking sharp and feeling great. Let's explore some top tips for keeping your facial hair in tip-top shape.

Washing and Conditioning

Washing and conditioning your beard, just like the hair on your head, needs regular washing and conditioning to stay clean and healthy. Wash your beard 2-3 times a week using a gentle, beard-specific shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils. Follow up with a beard conditioner to keep your facial hair soft and manageable.

Beard Care Products

Beard oil, balm, butter and mustache wax are your secret weapons in the fight against unruly facial hair. Beard oil helps moisturize and soften your beard (and skin beneath), while beard butter and beard balm provide extra nourishment and hold. Mustache wax comes in handy for styling and taming those stubborn mustache hairs. Experiment with these products to find the perfect combination for your beard and mustache needs.

Trimming and Shaping

Trimming and shaping are crucial components in the quest to maintain your desired beard style. Investing in a good-quality, beard brush or trimmer is a must for any facial hair aficionado, as it can make all the difference between a well-groomed look and a scruffy mess. When choosing your beard trimmer, opt for one with adjustable length settings that cater to your specific needs. This way, you'll have full control over your beard's appearance, no matter how long or short you'd like it to be. Additionally, a versatile beard trimmer can also help you explore new styles and keep up with ever-changing trends.

Now, we can't talk about beard maintenance without mentioning the importance of a trusty pair of sharp grooming scissors. These essential tools allow for precision work, enabling you to trim stray hairs and shape your beard to perfection. They're the perfect companion to your beard trimmer, giving you the freedom to sculpt your facial hair like a true artist, while helping to promote better beard hair growth too.

Combing and Brushing

Combing and brushing your beard helps distribute natural oils, remove tangles, and keep your facial hair looking its best. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your beard, followed by a boar bristle brush to smooth and shape your beard. Make combing and brushing a part of your daily beard style routine.

Growing a beard can come with its fair share of challenges, but fear not – we've got you covered:

  1. Itchiness: Beard itch can be a common issue, especially during the early stages of beard growth. Keep your skin moisturized using beard oil, and resist the urge to scratch.

  2. Dandruff: Beard dandruff can be caused by dry skin or a fungal infection. Use a beard shampoo with anti-dandruff properties and apply beard oil regularly to keep your skin moisturized. Beard oil made with tea tree oil is a great help with this as well.

  3. Ingrown Hairs: To prevent ingrown hairs, exfoliate your skin regularly using a gentle scrub or exfoliating brush. This will help remove dead skin cells and keep your pores clear.

With these grooming and maintenance tips, you'll be well on your way to sporting a magnificent beard that's the envy of all your friends. Remember, patience and consistency are key – so keep up with your grooming routine, and soon you'll have a great beard style, that turns heads and garners compliments wherever you go. Happy grooming!

Celebrities and Their Iconic Beard Styles

From historical figures to modern-day icons, beards have played a prominent role in shaping the image of many famous personalities. Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the most iconic beard styles sported by celebrities throughout history:

Historical Figures and Their Beards

Abraham Lincoln: The 16th President of the United States sported a chin curtain beard, which framed his face and added a distinguished air to his appearance.

Karl Marx: The philosopher and economist was known for his bushy, full beard that became a symbol of his revolutionary ideas.

Actors and Their Beard Styles

Chris Hemsworth: The Thor actor has been known to rock a stylish short beard that perfectly complements his chiseled features.

Keanu Reeves: The enigmatic actor has sported a signature patchy beard that has become a part of his iconic look.

Musicians and Their Facial Hair Choices

Freddie Mercury: The legendary Queen frontman was famous for his bold mustache, which became synonymous with his flamboyant stage presence.

ZZ Top: The rock band's members, Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill, are known for their long, iconic beards that have become a trademark of their musical persona.

Sports Personalities and Their Beards

James Harden: The NBA star's beard is as famous as his basketball skills. His full, well-groomed beard has become his signature look both on and off the court.

David Beckham: The soccer legend has experimented with various beard styles throughout his career, from the scruffy stubble to the perfectly groomed short beard.

Current Beard Styles Trends (in America)

Ah, America – the land of the free and the home of the bearded. As we whisk through the current beard style trends sweeping the nation, you'll find that America's love affair with facial hair is as strong as ever. From coast to coast, beards are blooming, and they're as diverse as the country itself.

One trend that's been gaining traction is the revival of the good ol' classic beard styles. Be it a neatly trimmed short beard, corporate beard or the garibaldi beard, these timeless looks are gracing the faces of office workers and outdoorsmen alike. It's like a nostalgic blast from the past, with a modern twist, reminding us that sometimes the oldies truly are the goodies.

But don't think for a moment that America's beard enthusiasts are only looking to the past. On the flip side, there's a rising tide of audacious, experimental beard styles for those who dare to be different. From the mesmerizing spiral beard to the playful "monkey tail," these quirky styles are perfect for individuals who want to make a bold statement and showcase their unique personality. It's a melting pot of whisker wizardry, a true testament to the creative spirit of America.

And let's not forget the powerful influence of pop culture in shaping today's beard trends. As our favorite celebrities and influencers continue to sport various beard styles, their fans can't help but follow suit. Whether it's Chris Evans with his debonair short beard or Post Malone's iconic mustache and goatee combo, there's no denying the impact of these bearded trendsetters. So, America, keep calm and beard on – the future of facial hair has never been more fascinating!

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, a comprehensive guide to the wonderful world of beard styles, grooming, and maintenance. You've navigated through the importance of beard styles in personal grooming, the role of face shape in choosing the right beard style, and explored various best beard styles and mustache styles in all their glory. We've also delved into the secrets of beard grooming and maintenance, and paid tribute to some iconic celebrities and their beards.

Now it's your turn to take the reins and experiment with different beard styles to find that perfect look tailored to your face shape. Remember, there's a beard style out there for everyone, so don't be afraid to mix and match until you find the one that makes you feel like the confident, stylish person you were meant to be.

Lastly, never forget the importance of proper beard grooming and maintenance. A well-kept beard is the key to a polished and stylish appearance, and with the tips and tricks you've learned in this article, you'll be well on your way to becoming a true beard aficionado.

So, go forth and embrace the world of facial hair growth with confidence, knowing that you have the knowledge and tools to cultivate a beard that's truly a masterpiece. And who knows? You might just inspire someone else to join the ranks of beard enthusiasts along the way. Happy bearding!

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should I consider when choosing a beard style?

You should consider your face shape, personal style, and grooming preferences when choosing a beard style.

How does face shape affect beard style selection?

Face shape plays a significant role in determining which beard styles will be the most flattering, as different styles can either enhance or detract from your facial features.

What are the main categories of beard styles for men?

The main categories are stubble, short beard styles, medium beard styles, and the long beard and/or full beard styles.

How do I determine my face shape?

Measure the dimensions of your forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and face length, then compare the measurements to identify your face shape category (oval, round, square, rectangle, diamond, triangle, or heart).

What role do mustache styles play in beard styling?

Mustache styles can add character and individuality to your overall beard style, and can be combined with various beard styles for a unique look.

Q6: What are some essential beard grooming and maintenance tips?

Key tips include washing and conditioning, using beard oil and other grooming products, trimming and shaping, combing and brushing, and tackling common beard issues like itchiness, dandruff, and ingrown hairs.

Can you provide examples of celebrities with iconic beard styles?

Examples include Abraham Lincoln (historical figure), Chris Hemsworth (actor), Freddie Mercury (musician), and James Harden (sports personality).

What are some upcoming trends and innovations in beard styles for men?

Expect to see the return of classic beard styles, more unique and experimental beard styles, and the role of social media in popularizing new trends.

How often should I trim and maintain my beard?

Frequency depends on your desired beard style and how quickly your facial hair grows. Regular trimming and grooming will help maintain a polished and stylish appearance as well as promote better beard growth.

What are some popular mustache styles that can be incorporated into beard styles for men?

Popular mustache styles include the Chevron, Handlebar, Horseshoe, Pencil, Walrus, Dali, English, Fu Manchu, Hungarian, and Imperial.

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