For many guys, a beard is more than just hair on your face; it's a big part of your look, a way to show off your personal flair. Beards are as popular as ever, you know, and finding the right one can totally change how you feel about your appearance. It's really cool how much variety there is, too, so many different kinds of cuts and trims to pick from.

We are all about beards, and we believe that the hair that grows on a man's face, often without including the mustache, can truly communicate an heroic image. It's like showing you're independent, sturdy, and ready for whatever comes your way. This year, there are so many fantastic beard styles men are trying out, whether you like something short and neat or long and quite grand.

So, if you're thinking about growing one, or maybe you want to switch up your current look, you've come to the right place. We've gathered some truly great ideas to inspire you, from classic shapes to the freshest trends. We'll help you discover all available types and styles of beards, and find your perfect beard style, that's the plan.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why a Beard Matters
• Picking Your Perfect Beard Style
  • Consider Your Face Shape
  • Work with Your Growth Patterns
• Popular Beard Styles for Men in 2024
  • The Classic Stubble
  • Short and Neat Beard Styles
    • The Trimmed Circle Beard
    • The Pencil Beard
    • The Corporate Beard
  • Medium Length Beard Styles
    • The Imperial Beard
    • The Goatee and Van Dyke
  • Longer, More Dramatic Beard Styles
    • The Bandholz Beard
    • The Full Beard
  • Mustache-Focused Styles
    • The Chevron Mustache
    • The Refined Handlebar
• Maintaining Your Beard for Its Best Look
  • Regular Trimming and Shaping
  • Washing and Conditioning
  • Using Oils and Balms
  • Stimulating Beard Growth
• Expert Tips for Your Best Beard
• Frequently Asked Questions About Beard Styles Men
• Ready for Your Best Beard?

Why a Beard Matters

Beards, you know, have been around throughout human history, and societal attitudes about them have really changed over time. Today, they're super popular, and a well-kept beard can really make a statement. It's a way to express who you are, or maybe even to try out a different side of your personality. A beard can add maturity, or a bit of rugged charm, and it's quite versatile in how it can shape your face.

For many men, growing a beard is like a personal project, something they put effort into. It's a visible sign of self-care, and, you know, a bit of style. Plus, beards are most commonly seen on pubescent or adult males, though women have been observed with beards as well, which is interesting. But for guys, it’s really a common way to define their look, so it's a big deal.

Picking Your Perfect Beard Style

Choosing the right beard style isn't just about what looks cool; it's also about what works for you. Every beard, you see, is like a snowflake – each one grows in a little differently. So, we'll teach you how to work with what you've got, which is pretty important. It's about finding a style that fits your face, your hair growth, and your lifestyle, too.

Consider Your Face Shape

Your face shape is a really big factor when you're picking a beard style. A round face, for example, might look better with a beard that adds some length, like a goatee or a longer, fuller style, to make it appear a bit more oval. On the other hand, a longer face might benefit from a wider beard on the sides, like a short boxed beard, to add some width and balance things out.

If you have a square jawline, you know, you might want a beard that softens those sharp angles a little, maybe something rounded at the chin. And for an oval face, you're pretty lucky, actually, because almost any beard style tends to look good. It's all about creating balance and highlighting your best features, that's the main idea.

Work with Your Growth Patterns

Not everyone can grow a super thick, full beard, and that's perfectly okay. Some guys have patchier growth in certain areas, and you can totally work with that. For instance, if your cheeks are a bit sparse, a goatee or a Van Dyke might be a better choice than a full beard. It's about playing to your strengths, you know, and making the most of what your beard naturally wants to do.

If your mustache grows in really well, but the rest is a bit slower, then focusing on a strong mustache style, like a chevron or a handlebar, could be your winning ticket. The key is to understand how your hair grows, and then pick a style that complements it rather than fighting against it. This makes maintenance easier, too, and your beard will look better, naturally.

Popular Beard Styles for Men in 2024

Ready for your best beard? We're highlighting 23 of the best beard styles in 2024, from stubble to chevron mustaches to the bandholz beard. We've compiled a list of the best beard styles for men to get right now. Get inspiration from iconic celebrities with exceptional beards, because they really know how to rock a look. Here's everything, from the different kinds of cuts and trims to styling and looks.

The Classic Stubble

A stubble beard, sometimes called a five o'clock shadow, is probably the easiest beard style to achieve, and it's almost universally flattering. It's just a few days' growth, you know, usually about 1-3 millimeters long. This look is pretty low maintenance, but it still adds a bit of ruggedness and definition to your face, which is nice.

To keep stubble looking good, you'll want to trim it regularly with a beard trimmer set to a short guard. This prevents it from looking messy or like you just forgot to shave. It's a great option for guys who want a beard but don't want the commitment of a longer style, or maybe those who have patchy growth. It’s a classic for a reason, really.

Short and Neat Beard Styles

Short beard styles are fantastic for a clean, professional look that still shows off some facial hair. They require regular trimming, of course, but they're often easier to manage than longer beards. These styles are perfect for office environments or for guys who prefer a very polished appearance. There are quite a few great options in this category, too.

The Trimmed Circle Beard

The trimmed circle beard, also known as a goatee with a connected mustache, forms a clear circle around the mouth. It's a very neat and contained style, which makes it look quite sophisticated. This style works really well for men who have good growth around their mouth but maybe not so much on their cheeks. It's a very defined look, you know.

To maintain a circle beard, you need precise trimming to keep that perfect circular shape. You'll typically shave the cheeks and jawline clean, leaving just the connected mustache and chin beard. It's a bit more work than stubble, but the result is a very sharp and intentional appearance, which many guys like. It's a classic for a reason, honestly.

The Pencil Beard

The pencil beard is a very thin, finely trimmed line of hair that runs along the jawline, usually without a mustache, or with a very thin, separate mustache. It's a rather distinctive and retro look, often associated with jazz musicians or old Hollywood stars. This style demands a lot of precision and regular upkeep, that's for sure.

It's not for everyone, as it requires very consistent and even growth along the jaw. If your hair grows in thick and dark, this style can really pop. You'll need a good razor and a steady hand to keep those lines super crisp. It's a bold choice, and it definitely makes a statement, you know, a very specific kind of statement.

The Corporate Beard

The corporate beard is a well-groomed, full beard that's kept relatively short and neat, typically no longer than an inch or two. It's designed to look professional and tidy, even in a business setting. The edges are clean, the length is uniform, and there are no wild hairs sticking out, which is pretty important for this look.

This style requires regular trimming, conditioning, and brushing to keep it looking sharp. It gives you the presence of a full beard without being too overwhelming or casual. It's a great option if you want to show off your beard in a more formal environment, you know, and still look completely put together. Many men find this a versatile choice.

Medium Length Beard Styles

Medium length beards offer a bit more presence than short styles but aren't as long as a full beard, so they're a nice middle ground. They give you more styling options and can really help to shape your face. These styles often require a bit more grooming than stubble, but they're still quite manageable for daily wear, which is good.

The Imperial Beard

The imperial beard is a very distinguished style that features a mustache and a chin beard, but with clean-shaven cheeks. The mustache is often styled upwards, and the chin beard is typically kept full and rounded. It's a rather regal and old-world look, you know, something you might see on a historical figure. It's a very specific kind of elegance.

This style takes some dedicated growth and careful shaping. The mustache usually needs some wax to keep its upward curl, and the chin beard needs regular trimming to maintain its shape. It's a statement beard, for sure, and it really sets you apart. If you want something unique and truly classic, this could be a great choice, honestly.

The Goatee and Van Dyke

A goatee, in its purest form, is just a patch of hair on the chin, often without a mustache. The Van Dyke, on the other hand, is a goatee combined with a disconnected mustache. Both are very popular and versatile choices, you know, and they can look quite sharp. They're great for adding definition to the chin area.

These styles are good for men who might have patchy cheek growth but strong growth on their chin and upper lip. They require regular shaving of the cheeks and jawline to keep the lines clean. The Van Dyke, in particular, allows for some creative mustache styling, which is pretty cool. They're both rather timeless looks, too.

Longer, More Dramatic Beard Styles

For those who want something longer, you know, these styles really make a statement. They require patience to grow and a lot more dedication to maintain, but the payoff can be a truly impressive look. Longer beards communicate a certain kind of ruggedness or wisdom, and they can be quite striking. They're not for the faint of heart, that's for sure.

The Bandholz Beard

The Bandholz beard is a truly full, long beard that includes a connected mustache. It's named after Eric Bandholz, who popularized the style. This beard is all about natural, uninhibited growth, though it still needs some shaping to look its best. It's meant to be quite majestic, really, and it can grow to impressive lengths.

Growing a Bandholz takes serious commitment, often several months or even years. Once it's long, it needs daily care: washing, conditioning, and regular brushing to keep it tangle-free and healthy. It's a very bold statement, and it's perfect for men who want to fully embrace their beard-growing potential. It's a powerful look, truly.

The Full Beard

The full beard is a classic, timeless style that covers the entire jawline, cheeks, and chin, connecting to the mustache. It's not as long as a Bandholz, typically, but it's still substantial. This style can be trimmed to various lengths, from a short full beard to a longer, more flowing one. It's a symbol of masculinity, you know, and it's always in style.

A full beard requires patience to grow out evenly. Once it reaches your desired length, regular trimming is key to maintain its shape and prevent split ends. Daily washing, conditioning, and beard oil are also pretty important to keep it soft and healthy. It's a versatile look that can be dressed up or down, depending on how you style it, which is nice.

Mustache-Focused Styles

Sometimes, the mustache is the real star of the show. These styles put the emphasis squarely on the upper lip, allowing for some truly unique and expressive looks. They can be worn on their own or paired with a very short beard or stubble. It's all about that upper lip game, you know, making it stand out.

The Chevron Mustache

The chevron mustache is a thick, full mustache that covers the entire area between your nose and upper lip, typically extending slightly over the top lip. It's a very classic and masculine look, often associated with a certain kind of rugged charm. Think Tom Selleck, you know, that kind of vibe. It's a very strong statement.

This style requires good, even mustache growth. It's relatively low maintenance once it's grown out, mainly needing regular trimming to keep it neat and prevent it from getting into your mouth. It's a great choice if you have naturally thick mustache hair and want a straightforward, powerful look, that's for sure.

The Refined Handlebar

For those who want something longer, you can create a contrast with a refined handlebar. The handlebar mustache is characterized by its long, upward-curling ends, often achieved with mustache wax. It's a very distinctive and artistic style, and it takes some dedication to grow and maintain. It's a bit of a showstopper, really.

To get a good handlebar, you need to let your mustache grow quite long, avoiding trimming the ends. Then, daily waxing and curling are essential to train the hairs into that iconic shape. It's a fun and expressive style that really shows off your personality. It's not for everyone, but if you can pull it off, it's pretty impressive, honestly.

Maintaining Your Beard for Its Best Look

No matter what beard style men choose, proper care is absolutely essential. A well-maintained beard looks healthier, feels better, and just generally makes a better impression. It's not just about growing it; it's about taking care of it, too. This means a bit of a routine, but it's totally worth it for a great-looking beard.

Regular Trimming and Shaping

This is probably the most important step for any beard style. Regular trimming keeps your beard looking neat, prevents split ends, and helps maintain its chosen shape. Even if you're growing a long beard, you know, occasional trims are needed to remove scraggly bits and keep it looking healthy. It's like getting a haircut, but for your face.

Invest in a good beard trimmer with multiple guard settings, and maybe some sharp beard scissors for precision work. Learn the characteristics of each style, and find your perfect beard style. You can trim it yourself or visit a barber who specializes in beards for a professional shape-up. It makes a huge difference, really.

Washing and Conditioning

Just like the hair on your head, your beard needs to be washed and conditioned regularly. Use a dedicated beard shampoo and conditioner, as regular hair products can be too harsh and strip your beard of its natural oils. Washing helps remove dirt, food particles, and dead skin cells, which is pretty important for hygiene.

Conditioning keeps the beard hair soft, manageable, and less prone to dryness and itchiness. Aim to wash your beard a few times a week, or more often if you work out or get it dirty. It's a simple step, but it really contributes to a healthy-looking beard, honestly.

Using Oils and Balms

Beard oil is a game-changer for most beard styles men choose. It moisturizes the skin underneath your beard, preventing itchiness and dryness, and it also softens the beard hair itself. A few drops massaged into your beard daily can make a world of difference, you know, making it feel much better.

Beard balm, on the other hand, offers more hold and can help with styling and taming flyaways. It's great for shaping longer beards or adding a bit of volume. Both products help keep your beard looking shiny and healthy. They're pretty essential for a well-groomed beard, really.

Stimulating Beard Growth

While beards are like snowflakes (each one grows in a little differently), in this article, we’ll teach you how to work with what you got. We’ll offer you expert advice on how to stimulate beard growth, too. This can involve a few things, like making sure you have a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially biotin and zinc.

Regular exercise and getting enough sleep also play a role in overall hair health, including your beard. Some guys find that derma rolling or specific beard growth serums can help, but it's important to do your research and use them safely. Patience is key, too, as beard growth takes time, you know, so don't get discouraged if it's slow at first.

Expert Tips for Your Best Beard

To really get your best beard, there are a few extra things you can do. Brushing your beard daily with a boar bristle brush helps distribute natural oils, keeps it neat, and can even stimulate blood flow to the skin, which is good for growth. It also helps to train the hairs to grow in the direction you want, which is pretty useful.

Don't forget about your skin underneath! Keeping it clean and moisturized prevents flakes and itchiness. Also, be mindful of your diet; what you eat really affects your hair health. Drinking plenty of water is important, too, for overall health and for your beard. These small habits really add up to a much better beard, honestly.

Consider visiting a professional barber for a beard trim, especially if you're trying a new style or want a really sharp look. They can give you advice tailored to your specific beard and face shape, which is invaluable. Plus, they have the tools and expertise to create those crisp lines and perfect shapes that are hard to do at home, you know.

And remember, confidence is the best accessory for any beard style. Own your look, and wear it with pride! Your beard is a reflection of you, so make it a good one. It's really about feeling good in your own skin, and your beard can totally help with that, that's the main idea.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beard Styles Men

What are the most popular beard styles for men?

Currently, you know, the most popular beard styles for men include the classic stubble, the neat corporate beard, and the full beard, which is always in style. The Van Dyke and circle beard are also very popular for a clean, defined look. It really depends on what kind of vibe you're going for, honestly.

How do I choose the right beard style for my face shape?

To choose the right beard style, you should really consider your face shape. For example, a round face might look better with a beard that adds length, like a goatee. A longer face, on the other hand, might benefit from a wider beard on the sides. It's all about balancing your features, you know, and creating a harmonious look.

How can I make my beard grow thicker?

Making your beard grow thicker involves a few things. First, you know, ensure you have a healthy diet with enough protein and vitamins. Regular exercise and good sleep also help with overall hair health. Using beard oil and brushing regularly can also stimulate blood flow and encourage growth. Patience is pretty important here, too, as it takes time.

Ready for Your Best Beard?

Beards are as popular as ever, and with so many styles to choose from, you can definitely find one that fits your personality and lifestyle. From the short and tidy stubble to the grand Bandholz, there's a look for every man. We’ve compiled a list of the best beard styles for men to get right now, so you've got plenty of inspiration. Discover all available types and styles of beards, and find your perfect beard style, that's the goal.

Whether you're just starting your beard journey or looking to switch things up, remember that consistency in care is key. A well-groomed beard not only looks great but also feels great. So, take these tips, explore the top beard styles, from trendy to famous, and get ready to rock your best beard yet. Learn more about beard care on our site, and link to this page for more grooming advice, and for more inspiration, check out GQ's guide to beard styles, too.