Beards are awesome. They can add a touch of rugged handsomeness to your appearance, or a dash of sophisticated charm. But with so many beard styles out there, how do you choose the right one?
Don't worry, fellas! This guide will be your wingman, helping you find the perfect style of beard to flatter your face shape and reflect your unique personality.
Explore Your Beard Growth Potential
Initial Assessment
First and foremost, patience is key! Resist the urge to trim and sculpt in the early stages. Let your beard grow freely for at least 4 weeks, as it will allow you to see your natural growth patterns.
Are there any patchy areas? How fast is your beard filling in? This initial growth phase will be your guide in choosing a beard style that works best with what nature has given you.
Beard Pattern
Genetics play a big role in beard growth. Some guys will achieve a full, luxurious beard in a few weeks, while others might have patchier areas or slower growth.
That doesn't mean you can't achieve a fantastic beard style. It just means you might need to choose a style that complements your natural growth pattern.
For example, a full beard might not be achievable if you have persistent patches. However, a well-maintained goatee or a short boxed beard could be perfect.
Beard Hair Texture
The texture of your hair plays a big role in how your beard will grow and style. Fine hair might not achieve the same thickness as coarse hair, while curly hair might require more frequent trimming to maintain a neat look. Understanding your hair texture will help you choose a style that's not only flattering but also manageable.
Understand Your Face Shape (with Matching Beard Styles)
Ever wondered why some beard styles seem to magically complement certain guys, while others look a bit off? There's a secret weapon at play: Face shapes!
Identify Your Face Shape
The first step is figuring out your face shape. Grab a mirror and a tape measure (optional, but helpful for precision).
Here's a quick guide to the most common face shapes:
- Oval: This is the golden ratio of face shapes, with a balanced forehead, cheeks, and jawline. Lucky you, most beard styles will work beautifully on an oval face!
- Round: Round faces have full cheeks and a shorter distance between the forehead and jaw.
- Square: Strong jawlines and a broad forehead define a square face.
- Rectangular: Similar to square faces, but with a slightly longer face compared to its width.
- Heart-Shaped: A wider forehead tapers down to a pointy chin, creating a heart-like shape.
- Diamond-Shaped: Diamond faces have prominent cheekbones and a narrower forehead and chin.
Beard Style Ideas to Match Your Face
Now that you know your face shape, the fun part begins! Beards can be your sculpting tool, helping to add definition and create a more harmonious look.
Explore some of our suggestions on how to choose the right beard style to complement your unique features:
- Oval Faces: As mentioned before, you have the freedom to experiment with various beard styles. Short stubble, a classic goatee, a full beard – the choice is yours!
- Round Faces: Opt for styles that add length and definition. A pointed beard or a style with more hair growth on the chin can elongate your face.
- Square Faces: Sharp jawlines can be softened with a beard that has a rounded bottom. Beards with fuller sides also achieve this balancing effect.
- Rectangular Faces: The goal here is to add width to your face. Consider a full beard or a style with sideburns that connect to your mustache for a more balanced look.
- Heart-Shaped Faces: Focus on fullness at the chin to visually balance out a wider forehead. A goatee or a beard with a pointed tip can work wonders.
- Diamond-Shaped Faces: Keep things sharp and sophisticated with a short, neatly trimmed beard. This won't draw too much attention away from your striking cheekbones.
4 Popular Beard Trends - 12 Specific Beard Styles
Classic Cuts
These beard styles have endured for a reason - they're universally flattering and require varying levels of commitment.
The Full Beard
The epitome of facial hair, a full beard exudes masculinity and strength. Think Hollywood legends like Ryan Reynolds or Hugh Jackman. However, it demands consistent upkeep with trimming and shaping to maintain a clean silhouette.
The Goatee
A versatile and popular choice, the goatee comes in various iterations. The classic goatee features a patch of hair on the chin and a separate mustache, while a chin strap connects the goatee to the sideburns for a more defined look. Extended goatees lengthen the chin patch for a more dramatic effect.
The Van Dyke
Named after the famed 17th-century painter, the Van Dyke is a pointed beard with a disconnected mustache. It adds a touch of sophistication and has been sported by celebrities like Johnny Depp and David Beckham.
Modern Mustache
Mustaches are back in a big way, offering a stylish alternative to a full beard. Here are a few iconic options:
The Handlebar Mustache
Bold and flamboyant, the handlebar mustache features curled ends that demand attention. It's a statement piece best suited for confident individuals, like actor Wilford Brimley.
The Horseshoe Mustache
This connected mustache follows the jawline, creating a horseshoe shape. It's a classic style popularized by Hulk Hogan and offers a touch of rugged charm.
The Chevron Mustache
A short and pointed mustache, the chevron is often associated with military personnel. It's a low-maintenance option that adds a touch of sharpness. Think Tom Selleck in his Magnum P.I. days.
Short & Sharp
Don't have time for elaborate beard routines? No problem! These short styles are perfect for the on-the-go man:
The Stubble
This is the simplest beard style, featuring a short and even layer of growth all over the face. It's effortless to maintain and offers a clean, masculine look.
The Short Boxed Beard
A neat and tidy option, the short boxed beard is trimmed to a specific length with clean lines. Think of it as a more defined version of stubble, popularized by actors like Jake Gyllenhaal.
The Verdi
Named after the Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi, this short beard features a prominent mustache. It's a sophisticated choice that adds a touch of personality without requiring excessive upkeep.
Long & Luscious
Ready to commit to a show-stopping beard? These styles are for the bold:
The Garibaldi
A long, full beard with a wild and natural look, the Garibaldi is perfect for those who embrace a rugged aesthetic. Think Viking warriors or ZZ Top. Patience and dedication are key for achieving this impressive beard.
The Braid
For men blessed with long, thick beards, braiding adds a unique and eye-catching touch. It's a way to express your individuality and stand out from the crowd.
The Ducktail
This beard takes its name from its shape, resembling a duck's tail with hair pointed downwards. It's a distinctive style that requires a significant amount of growth and meticulous shaping.
The perfect beard is out there waiting for you! Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles until you find the one that complements your face shape and personal taste. Your beard is a canvas for self-expression, so have fun and let your personality shine through!