From basic stubble to designer works of art, men’s beard styles have come a long way. The right beard can make your face from rugged to refined. This guide explains the best beard styles (from low-maintenance stubble to full, dapper beards). You’ll also pick up grooming tips, face shape matches, and pitfalls to avoid.
Choosing the perfect beard style for men depends on hair growth, face shape, and personal style. Some men prefer a clean corporate beard, while others rock a wild Bandholz. No matter your preference, this guide helps you pick the most popular beard styles with confidence.
How to Pick the Best Beard Style for Your Face Shape
Not every beard style for men suits every face. The right shape enhances your features. Here’s how to match a beard to your face:
- Oval Face: Most styles work, especially full beards and stubble.
- Round Face: Go for angular styles like the Van Dyke or extended goatee to add length.
- Square Face: Soften sharp jaws with rounded beards like the Garibaldi.
- Triangular Face: Balance a narrow chin with a full beard or mutton chops.
Thin or patchy beards? Try stubble or a goatee. Thick growth? Experiment with long styles like the Ducktail.
Short Beard Styles (Low Maintenance & Sharp)
Short beard styles are ideal for men who prefer a groomed, masculine appearance without excessive maintenance. This style has great professional settings and is pretty much easy to maintain.
1. Stubble Beard (The 5 O’Clock Shadow)
The stubble beard is the easiest to maintain. It’s a short, 1–3 mm shadow that gives a rugged yet polished appearance. Many women find this look attractive because it’s masculine but not too wild.
How to Maintain:
- Use a beard trimmer every 2–3 days.
- Keep edges neat for a sharp look.
- Apply beard oil to prevent itchiness.
Best for: Men who want a low-effort, high-impact style.
2. Corporate Beard (The Professional Look)
A corporate beard is short, groomed, and bushy, typically 0.5–1 inch long. It’s great for office environments since it looks clean and well-groomed.
How to Style:
- Trim weekly to maintain shape.
- Define the chevron and necklines for a sharp finish.
- Use a beard balm to keep it tidy.
Best for: Business professionals and men with oval or square faces.
3. Short Boxed Beard (The Classic Gentleman’s Beard)
This style is slightly longer than stubble but still well-contained. It follows the jawline closely, giving a structured appearance.
How to Maintain:
- Trim every 5–7 days.
- Keep the sides slightly shorter than the chin area.
- Comb daily to train hair growth.
Best for: Men who want a refined, masculine look.
Medium-Length Beard Styles (Versatile & Bold)
Medium-length beards offer more styling options while still being manageable. These styles work well for men who want a fuller look without going too long.
4. Classic Full Beard (The Timeless Look)
A full beard covers the cheeks, jawline, and chin evenly. It’s one of the most popular beard styles because it’s masculine and versatile.
How to Maintain:
- Wash and condition 2–3 times a week.
- Trim every 10–14 days to avoid a messy look.
- Use beard oil daily to prevent dryness.
Best for: Men with thick, even beard growth.
5. Garibaldi Beard (The Natural & Wide Look)
The Garibaldi beard is wide and rounded, giving a bold, natural appearance. It’s great for men who want a full beard but with a softer shape.
How to Style:
- Let it grow freely for 2–3 months.
- Round off the bottom edges for a clean finish.
- Brush regularly to avoid tangles.
Best for: Men with round or rectangular faces.
6. Balbo Beard (The Modern Hybrid Style)
The Balbo beard combines a floating mustache with a disconnected chin beard. It’s a stylish choice for men who want a unique look.
How to Maintain:
- Keep the mustache and beard separate.
- Trim the chin beard into a slight point.
- Use wax to style the mustache.
Best for: Men with patchy cheek growth.
Long Beard Styles (Rugged & Eye-Catching)
Long beards make a strong statement but require more maintenance. These styles are perfect for men who want a bold, masculine look.
7. Ducktail Beard (The Tapered Masterpiece)
The Ducktail beard is long and tapers to a point at the chin. It’s a stylish choice that needs regular shaping.
How to Style:
- Grow a beard to at least 4–6 inches.
- Taper sides and leave length at the chin.
- Use beard balm to keep it sleek.
Best for: Men with oval or triangular faces.
8. Bandholz Beard (The Ultimate Long Beard)
The Bandholz beard is untamed and paired with a mustache. It takes months to grow, butit makes a powerful impression.
How to Maintain:
- Be patient—it takes 6+ months to grow.
- Condition regularly to prevent frizz.
- Comb daily to avoid knots.
Best for: Men committed to long-term beard growth.
Creative & Modern Beard Styles
For men who want something unique, these styles stand out.
9. Van Dyke Beard (The Artistic Look)
This style features a detached mustache and pointed goatee. It’s perfect for men who want a sophisticated yet edgy look.
How to Style:
- Keep the mustache and goatee separate.
- Point the chin beard for definition.
- Use wax for mustache styling.
Best for: Square or diamond-shaped faces.
10. Mutton Chops (The Bold Vintage Style)
Mutton chops are thick sideburns that extend down to the jaw. They’re a bold, retro-inspired choice.
How to Maintain:
- Let sideburns grow thick and wide.
- Shave the chin and mustache area clean.
- Trim edges for sharpness.
Best for: Men who love vintage or rockabilly styles.
Beard Grooming Tips for a Perfect Look
A great beard needs proper care. Follow these tips:
- Wash & Condition 2–3 times a week.
- Trim regularly to avoid split ends.
- Use Beard Oil to keep hair soft.
- Brush daily to train growth direction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Ignoring neckline cleanup.
- Over-trimming sideburns.
- Skipping moisturizer.
Conclusion
When it comes to grooming, men, the correct beard style is essential, completely changing your look and giving you confidence, as well as making your facial features more appealing. Whether you like the simplicity of stubble, the professionalism of a corporate beard, or the bold statement Bandholz makes, there’s an ideal style for every face shape and lifestyle.
FAQs About Beard Styles for Men
What face shape is best for a beard?
Oval faces suit almost all styles. Round faces look best with angular beards.
What type of beard is most attractive?
Studies show short stubble is often rated as most attractive
How should a beard be styled?
Match it to your face shape. Keep it clean and moisturized.
What length of beard looks best?
1–3 mm (stubble) for casual. 1–2 inches for a full look.
Are there good beard styles for men with a cleft chin?
A goatee or Van Dyke enhances a cleft chin.
Which sunglasses suit big beards?
Aviators or round frames balance thick beards well.
