Beards have become an iconic symbol of masculinity and style. Over the years, they’ve gone from being a sign of ruggedness to a fashionable trend that complements various looks and personalities. Whether you’re looking to grow out a full beard or just want to maintain a stubble, the right beard style can completely change your appearance. If you’re heading to your local barber and unsure of which beard to ask for, we’ve got you covered with some of the most popular and stylish beard options.
Choosing the right beard style depends on several factors, including your face shape, the amount of time you can dedicate to upkeep, and the overall look you’re going for. Some beard styles are low maintenance, while others require more regular grooming. No matter your preference, here are the top five beard styles to ask for at your barber shop, all of which can help you stand out in the best way.
1. The Full Beard
The full beard is one of the most classic and bold beard styles you can choose. This style is perfect for those who want to embrace their facial hair fully. A full beard covers the entire jawline, chin, and upper lip, creating a balanced and mature look. It’s a versatile beard that works well with a wide variety of face shapes, especially oval or square faces.
When opting for a full beard, be prepared for the commitment that comes with maintaining it. Regular trimming is essential to keep the beard looking neat and well-groomed. Your barber will help shape it according to your facial features, ensuring the beard enhances your natural appearance. If you have a thick beard, you’ll need to care for it with specialized beard oils or balms to prevent it from becoming unruly or itchy.
2. The Short Beard
If you prefer a more refined look but still want the presence of facial hair, the short beard is a great option. A short beard, also known as a stubble beard or “five o'clock shadow,” offers a balance between sophistication and masculinity. This beard style doesn’t require much upkeep but still gives you that rugged, mature appearance.
The short beard works well on almost any face shape, making it a safe and stylish choice for most men. You can maintain it by shaving the sides and neck while allowing the beard to grow slightly longer on the chin. For a cleaner, more defined look, your Barbershop can carefully shape the beard, ensuring it stays neat and adds definition to your jawline. The short beard is also an excellent choice for those with patchy facial hair, as it can mask spots that are more difficult to fill.
3. The Goatee
The goatee is one of the most timeless and versatile beard styles. This classic look features a beard that is concentrated around the chin and upper lip, with the cheeks either clean-shaven or trimmed very short. Goatees are particularly flattering for men with round or square face shapes as they help elongate the face and create more definition along the jawline.
There are various types of goatees to consider, from the traditional goatee, which covers only the chin and is paired with a mustache, to the more modern Van Dyke style, where the mustache and goatee are disconnected. Your barber can help you choose the right variation depending on your preferences and facial features.
One of the benefits of the goatee is that it requires less maintenance compared to a full beard. You’ll need to keep the chin area well-groomed, but the rest of your face can be kept clean-shaven. For those looking to add a little flair, you can combine a goatee with a soul patch or a mustache for added personality.
4. The Beardstache
If you love the idea of having a thick mustache but don’t want to give up your beard altogether, the beardstache is the perfect combination. This style combines a thick, well-groomed mustache with a shorter, neatly-trimmed beard. The mustache should be the focal point, standing out prominently above the beard, which is kept more refined and tidy.
The beardstache is a bold choice for men who want to showcase their mustache while still maintaining a beard for added masculinity. This style works best for those with strong facial features who can pull off the contrast between the bold mustache and the more subdued beard. It’s also a great option for those who want to highlight their upper lip and add some vintage charm to their look.
While the beardstache is a stylish option, it does require more maintenance than a standard full beard or short beard. You’ll need to keep the mustache trimmed and shaped so it doesn’t overpower the rest of the beard, and the beard itself should be kept neat to maintain the balance between the two. A barber can help you define the boundaries of the mustache and beard to ensure they complement each other.
5. The Stubble Beard
For those who want a low-maintenance but stylish beard, the stubble beard is a fantastic option. This style involves keeping the facial hair short but noticeable, offering a look that’s both rugged and polished. The stubble beard is ideal for men who don’t want to commit to a full beard but still want to add some edge to their appearance.
The stubble beard can be customized to fit your personal style. Some men prefer a light, barely-there stubble that creates a soft, understated look, while others go for a thicker stubble that’s more pronounced. Either way, it’s a low-maintenance style that only requires minimal upkeep. With the right grooming tools, you can keep the stubble neat and well-shaped without needing to spend too much time on it.
Stubble beards work well with almost any face shape, but they are particularly great for those with more angular faces. They can soften sharp jawlines and provide a youthful yet mature appearance. A good barber will help you determine the right length of stubble for your face shape, ensuring you get the most flattering look.
Conclusion
Choosing the right beard style can transform your look and give you a confidence boost. From the full beard that exudes masculinity to the low-maintenance stubble that adds a touch of rugged charm, there’s a beard style to suit every personality and lifestyle. When you visit your barber, make sure to communicate clearly about the style you want, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice on which look will best complement your face shape and lifestyle.
Remember, no matter which beard style you choose, maintaining it is key to keeping it looking sharp. Regular trimming, shaping, and proper beard care will help you achieve the best results. With the right beard style, you’ll be ready to turn heads and showcase your personal style with confidence. So, the next time you head to your local barber, make sure to ask for one of these top five beard styles and enjoy the transformation!