So, you’ve got a rectangular face – long and relatively narrow, right? Finding the right beard style can feel like a quest, but don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the world of facial hair and find your perfect match. The goal is to soften the strong lines of your face and create a more balanced, aesthetically pleasing look.
The key with a rectangular face is to avoid anything that elongates it further. Think of it like this: you want to visually shorten the length of your face, adding width to create a more oval shape. This means we need to steer clear of styles that are too long and narrow, focusing instead on those that add width at the jawline.
Beard Styles That Work Wonders
Here are some top beard styles that are perfect for rectangular faces, keeping in mind the need to add visual width:
The Full Beard (with modifications)
A full beard can work, but it needs a little tweaking. Let it grow out, but keep the sides fuller than the bottom. This creates the illusion of width, counteracting the length. Keep it neatly trimmed to avoid looking unkempt.
The Balanced Short Box Beard
This is a fantastic option for those who prefer a shorter, more manageable beard. It’s all about creating even proportions. The sides and bottom should be roughly the same length, creating a square-ish look that offsets the length of the face. This style adds width without adding too much length.
The Well-Groomed Goatee
A goatee, when styled correctly, can add visual width around the chin and mouth area. Keep it neatly trimmed and consider connecting it to a well-maintained mustache. This adds visual width without overwhelming the face.
The Anchor Beard
This style involves a full, rounded beard that connects to a mustache, creating a solid anchor shape around the mouth area. It adds that much needed width to offset the length of your face.
The Rounded Beard
Similar to the anchor beard, a rounded beard, well-groomed and full, adds pleasing curves to your facial structure, minimizing the rectangular effect. It softens those sharp lines and makes for a well-balanced look.
Styles to Avoid
While the styles above work to create balance, certain styles can actually accentuate the length of your face, making it look even more rectangular. It’s best to avoid:
- Long, thin beards that extend way down the neck
- Very short, barely-there stubble (unless styled into a well-defined goatee)
- Extremely pointed beards that only focus on the chin
Remember, grooming is key! Regardless of the style you choose, keeping your beard clean, neatly trimmed, and conditioned will always improve the overall look. Experiment with different lengths and shapes to find what flatters your face the most.
And if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for advice from a barber who specializes in beard styling. They can offer personalized recommendations based on your facial features and preferences.