A well-groomed beard can completely change a man’s appearance. The right beard style enhances facial features, adds maturity, and boosts confidence. Whether short and neat or long and rugged, there’s a beard style for every face shape. Below are 15 beard styles that will elevate your look.
1. The Classic Full Beard
A thick, full beard is the epitome of timeless style and remains one of the most popular options among men. This beard style involves allowing your facial hair to grow evenly across your jawline, cheeks, chin, and upper lip, creating a rich and dense texture. The Classic Full Beard suits most face shapes, particularly square, oval, and diamond faces, as it gives the jawline a defined and balanced appearance.
Maintaining a full beard requires commitment and proper grooming, as neglecting it can lead to an unruly and unkempt look. Regular trimming is key to keeping the edges tidy and maintaining an even length throughout. Washing the beard with a specialized beard shampoo is essential to remove dirt, oils, and debris while ensuring the hair remains soft and itch-free. A quality beard oil or balm can help keep your beard hydrated and tamed while minimizing any frizz. Pair this beard style with a strong haircut to achieve that cohesive, polished look. Whether you’re going for a corporate vibe or a rugged outdoorsman aesthetic, the Classic Full Beard never fails to make a bold, masculine statement.
2. The Stubble Beard
The Stubble Beard strikes the perfect balance between rugged charm and minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for men seeking an effortless yet appealing appearance. This style involves leaving a short layer of facial hair across the face, generally no more than 1 to 3 millimeters in length, resembling the look of a five o’clock shadow but slightly more pronounced.
One of the major advantages of stubble is its versatility—it complements nearly every face shape and adds a masculine, laid-back edge to your look. For men with sparse or patchy facial hair growth, stubble can be a forgiving option that provides a natural look while avoiding noticeable gaps. Light stubble creates a clean yet rugged impression, making it an ideal choice for both casual and semi-formal settings.
To maintain the perfect stubble look, regular upkeep is necessary. Use a quality electric trimmer with adjustable length settings to achieve the desired depth, and ensure you carefully groom the neckline and cheek areas to define clean edges. Exfoliation is essential to prevent ingrown hairs, and moisturizing your skin can avoid dryness or irritation caused by the short hair. With minimal investment of time and effort, the Stubble Beard grants you a charismatic style that’s easy to pull off.
3. The Goatee
The Goatee is a distinctive beard style that retains its place as a popular choice for many men. This look involves growing hair only on the chin area, with the option of including a connected or standalone mustache. It serves as a great solution for men who want to add some facial definition without committing to a full beard. The Goatee works particularly well for oval, round, or triangular face shapes by elongating the chin and creating sharper contours.
There are several variations of the Goatee to suit different preferences and levels of maintenance. The traditional Goatee consists of a small patch of hair directly on the chin without any connection to the mustache. Meanwhile, the Full Goatee connects the mustache and chin beard in a circular pattern, offering a polished and complete appearance. For a more minimalistic option, the Anchor Goatee combines a pointed chin beard with a disconnected mustache, adding a modern and edgy touch.
Achieving the perfect Goatee requires attention to detail. Start by allowing the hair on your chin and upper lip to grow to your desired length while keeping the cheeks and side areas clean-shaven. Precision is key when shaping your Goatee, so invest in a quality razor or a detail trimmer to create sharp lines and symmetry. Proper grooming products, such as beard oil, can help soften the hair and maintain a sharp, sleek look. The versatility and manageable upkeep of the Goatee make it an outstanding choice for those who want a sophisticated yet unique appearance.
4. The Circle Beard
The Circle Beard is a polished and rounded goatee that connects seamlessly with the mustache to form a closed circular shape. This style is a quintessential option for individuals who prefer a neat and professional appearance while still emphasizing their facial features. The Circle Beard is especially popular among those who want a well-maintained look that conveys a sense of sophistication and confidence. To achieve this style, precise grooming is essential.
Regular trimming is necessary to maintain the rounded contours of the beard and keep the edges clean. A high-quality razor or detail trimmer can be used for shaping, ensuring that the circle is symmetrical and well-defined. Applying a good beard conditioner or oil will keep the hair soft and manageable, enhancing the sleek aesthetic of the style. The Circle Beard’s versatility makes it ideal for formal work environments or social occasions, as it blends professionalism with a touch of personal flair.
5. The Van Dyke Beard
The Van Dyke Beard is a bold and distinguished style that combines a disconnected mustache with a sharply defined goatee. Named after the 17th-century Flemish painter Anthony Van Dyke, this style carries an artistic and sophisticated appeal that has stood the test of time. The Van Dyke Beard is characterized by its distinctive separation between the mustache and the goatee, allowing for a striking visual contrast. Achieving this look requires attention to detail and regular upkeep. Creating the clean separation between the mustache and goatee is paramount, so investing in precision grooming tools, such as a fine trimmer, can make all the difference.
The goatee itself can be styled to suit individual preferences, from a pointed and tapered finish to a fuller, rounded appearance. For the mustache, a subtle curl or neatly trimmed edges can amplify the impact of the style. To maintain a polished appearance, grooming products like beard balms and oils are essential, as they help shape the beard and keep it hydrated. For a flawless result, visiting a professional New York Barbershop is highly recommended. Skilled barbers can offer expert advice, execute precise shaping, and tailor the Van Dyke Beard to perfectly complement your facial structure, creating a truly defining and eye-catching look.
6. The Balbo Beard
The Balbo Beard is a timeless and sophisticated style that exudes confidence and charm. This beard style is characterized by its lack of sideburns and a neatly groomed, floating mustache that is disconnected from the beard. The Balbo creates a distinct and elegant look, drawing attention to the central part of the face and accentuating the jawline.
To achieve the Balbo Beard, a clean shave around the cheeks and neck is crucial, ensuring only the beard under the chin and along the jawline remains. The mustache can be styled separately, whether thin or slightly thicker, based on personal preference. This precise division allows for a structured and refined aesthetic.
The Balbo Beard is particularly flattering for men with square and oval face shapes, as it softens strong jawlines while emphasizing the overall symmetry of the face. Proper maintenance is essential to keep this style looking its best. Regular trimming will prevent the beard from appearing unkempt, and shaping tools can help refine the lines. A high-quality beard oil will keep the hair smooth and nourished, while a mustache comb or wax provides control for a perfectly styled look.
This style pairs well with professional or casual attire, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re attending a business meeting or spending a night out, the Balbo Beard effortlessly elevates your appearance with its clean, suave look.
7. The Anchor Beard
The Anchor Beard is a bold and stylish choice for those who want to make a unique statement. Named for its resemblance to the shape of a ship’s anchor, this beard style features a thin line of hair along the jawline, connecting to a prominent chin beard, all complemented by a well-groomed mustache.
This intricate beard style demands precision and attention to detail. Start by shaving the cheeks and neck areas clean while leaving a defined, thin strip of beard tracing the jawline. The chin beard should be neatly sculpted into a pointed or slightly rounded shape, creating the “anchor” effect. Meanwhile, the mustache, shaped to your liking, remains detached from the chin, adding an additional layer of sophistication to your look.
Best suited for those with round or square face shapes, the Anchor Beard helps elongate and define the facial structure, giving the illusion of a sharper jawline. To maintain its sharpness, frequent edging and trimming are necessary to preserve the distinct lines and symmetry. Adding a beard balm or oil into your grooming routine not only enhances the beard’s texture but also prevents irritation around the shaved areas.
The Anchor Beard is a great style for individuals who want to exude originality and flair. It’s a perfect match for creative personalities or anyone attending chic, upscale events. When properly maintained, the Anchor Beard communicates confidence and an artistic sense of style.
8. The Short Boxed Beard
For those who seek a clean, polished, and low-maintenance look, the Short Boxed Beard is an excellent choice. This beard style features neat, evenly trimmed facial hair with sharp, well-defined edges. It offers the fullness of a traditional beard while maintaining a professional, modern appeal.
The Short Boxed Beard typically requires careful grooming to achieve its symmetrical and tidy appearance. The beard should be trimmed to a uniform length, usually no longer than half an inch, and the edges along the cheeks and neckline should be sharply defined. This precision helps in creating a clean contrast between the beard and the surrounding skin.
One of the major advantages of the Short Boxed Beard is its adaptability—it suits most face shapes, making it a universally appealing option. Furthermore, it offers a laid-back yet sophisticated vibe that works seamlessly in both professional and casual environments.
To maintain the Short Boxed Beard, regular grooming is essential. A quality beard trimmer with adjustable settings will help in keeping the length consistent, while regular use of beard oils and balms will ensure the beard stays soft, manageable, and hydrated. Razor or trimmer edging along the beard’s borders will preserve its sharp, boxed appearance over time.
This beard style is perfect for men who want a balanced look that’s neither too rugged nor too minimalist. The Short Boxed Beard speaks to the modern man who values practicality without compromising on style.
9. The Ducktail Beard
The Ducktail Beard is the perfect combination of rugged charm and sophisticated style. This beard style is characterized by its longer length, which gradually tapers into a point at the chin, resembling the shape of a duck’s tail. It is an excellent choice for men seeking a look that is both masculine and refined, striking a balance between wild and groomed. Maintaining a Ducktail Beard requires regular trimming and shaping to keep the taper defined and the length controlled. The sides of the beard are typically kept shorter, which emphasizes the pointed beard shape at the chin. Pairing this beard with a clean neckline and sharp edges enhances its polished appearance. Men with strong jawlines or angular face shapes often prefer the Ducktail Beard, as it accentuates their natural features while allowing for a touch of flair. Using beard oils and balms is key to keeping the beard healthy, soft, and free from frizz. The Ducktail Beard is the go-to style for men who want an effortlessly stylish yet slightly daring look.
10. The Garibaldi Beard
For those who want to make a bold and confident statement with their facial hair, the Garibaldi Beard is an excellent choice. Named after the Italian general Giuseppe Garibaldi, this style features a wide, rounded beard with a thick mustache, offering a distinctive and commanding appearance. The length of the beard typically extends just below the chin, with the edges rounded off to create a fuller, softer shape. This style requires less upkeep than sharper beard styles but still demands regular grooming to prevent it from looking overly untamed.
The Garibaldi Beard complements men with thick facial hair and works particularly well with oval or oblong face shapes. Maintaining the beard’s rounded shape is crucial, as it gives the style its signature look. Use of nourishing beard products, including oils and conditioners, helps maintain the beard’s volume and texture while promoting a healthy shine. The Garibaldi Beard is an excellent choice for men who appreciate a bold yet approachable aesthetic and are confident in letting their facial hair take center stage.
11. The Bandholz Beard
The Bandholz Beard is a full, untamed masterpiece that epitomizes rugged masculinity. This beard style allows the facial hair to grow freely, with minimal trimming, resulting in a natural and strikingly bold look. It was popularized by Eric Bandholz, the founder of Beardbrand, and has since become synonymous with men who value self-expression and individuality. Growing a Bandholz Beard requires patience, as it takes time for the beard to reach its full, voluminous potential. The style typically features a thick mustache that blends seamlessly with the full beard, adding to the cohesive, unrestrained appearance. Unlike neatly groomed beard styles, the Bandholz Beard encourages a wild, natural aesthetic while still valuing proper care and maintenance.
Regular washing, conditioning, and the use of nourishing oils are essential to keeping the beard healthy and manageable, as the length and density can lead to dryness or irritation if neglected. This beard style pairs effortlessly with strong confidence and a rugged wardrobe, making it ideal for men who aren’t afraid to stand out. Whether worn for its impactful look or as a testament to personal freedom, the Bandholz Beard is a timeless choice for the modern adventurer.
12. The Mutton Chops
The Mutton Chops is an undeniably bold and vintage style, characterized by thick sideburns that extend down the cheeks and connect to the jawline. This distinctive look harks back to the 19th century, exuding a sense of drama and nostalgia. Ideal for those seeking a statement-making appearance, the Mutton Chops work particularly well for men with strong bone structures and angular faces, as the style highlights and accentuates sharp features. To maintain this classic look, regular grooming is essential—keeping the edges clean and the hair uniformly trimmed ensures the sideburns remain polished and strikingly rugged. Pair it with a classic wardrobe or modern twist for a unique blend of old-school charm and contemporary flair.
13. The Chin Strap Beard
The Chin Strap Beard is a minimalist and refined facial hair style, featuring a thin, deliberate line of hair that follows the jawline. This sleek look is perfect for men who prefer a clean and structured aesthetic while accentuating their facial contours. The style suits individuals with oval, round, or square faces, as it defines and sharpens the jawline for a more balanced appearance. Achieving the perfect Chin Strap Beard requires precision shaving and trimming, as the edges need to stay sharp for a polished finish. A skilled New York Barber can tailor the style to complement your unique face shape and hair texture, ensuring the design is both flattering and effortlessly stylish. This understated yet impactful choice bridges clean sophistication with understated confidence.
14. The Corporate Beard
The Corporate Beard is the epitome of professionalism and refinement, making it an ideal choice for formal settings. This medium-length beard strikes the perfect balance between personal style and workplace etiquette, creating a well-groomed yet approachable appearance. Maintaining a Corporate Beard requires consistent trimming to ensure the edges remain clean and the overall length stays even. The beard often extends uniformly along the jawline, combining with a trimmed mustache to create a cohesive and polished look. The key to perfecting this style lies in keeping the facial hair soft and healthy, which can be achieved with high-quality grooming products such as beard oil and conditioner. Ideal for business professionals, the Corporate Beard exudes confidence, discipline, and sophistication, subtly enhancing the wearer’s natural features while staying office-appropriate.
15. The Scruffy Beard
The Scruffy Beard embraces a slightly messy, laid-back aesthetic that resonates with a carefree and relaxed lifestyle. This medium-length beard is intentionally less structured, featuring an uneven, natural appearance that adds charm and character to the look. Despite its seemingly effortless vibe, achieving the perfect Scruffy Beard still involves some maintenance. Regular trimming and shaping are necessary to prevent the style from looking unkempt, while beard care products like balms and oils help to soften the hairs and maintain a healthy texture. This beard style works exceptionally well for individuals looking to break free from polished norms, offering an appealing ruggedness that pairs seamlessly with casual wear. The Scruffy Beard is a testament to individuality, confidence, and relaxed self-expression, making it a favorite choice for those who value both style and comfort.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right beard style depends on face shape, hair type, and personal preference. Regular grooming and maintenance keep any beard looking sharp. Experiment with different styles to find the one that suits best. A great beard can elevate confidence and enhance overall appearance.
