Formal Beard Styles for the Discerning Gentleman: A Style Guide

Formal settings and corporate environments pose a bit of a problem for the discerning gentleman. You want to grow a beard (or you already have one), but you're not sure about the right way to keep things professional. After all, you don't want your beard to hamper your career prospects. 

What's the solution? Well, if you're after some of the best corporate and professional beard styles, you're in luck. We're going through how to style your facial fuzz for the formal setting. 

The Problems with Corporate Beards

If you're attending a wedding or other formal event, most people can get away with their original beard. Sure, you'll need to keep it oiled, trimmed, and brushed, but unless you're sporting something primaeval, it should look okay.

In the corporate world, the standards are much stricter. Sometime after WWII, beards fell out of fashion. It became taboo and unprofessional to wear a corporate beard or mustache. 

Thankfully, the times are changing. However, you still want to be sensible when choosing a beard, opting for something refined and lowkey, depending on your industry. Of course, if you work in the creative sector, then you can get away with a lot more.

Best Formal and Corporate Beard Styles

Light Stubble

What does it look like? Light stubble involves a few days' worth of growth, showing a light yet noticeable texture across the face. It's uniform and meticulously trimmed to maintain an even, short length, offering a slightly rugged yet refined appearance.

Why it's suitable? This style is perfect for the professional environment as it straddles the line between clean-shaven and full-bearded, suggesting a well-groomed yet approachable demeanor. It's low maintenance and can suit almost any face shape, making it a versatile option for everyday corporate life.

Full Beard

What does it look like? A full beard covers the jawline and chin completely with significant length and volume. It's well-shaped and evenly grown to enhance the facial features without appearing unkempt.

Why it's suitable? When neatly trimmed, a full beard exudes authority and maturity, making it ideal for leadership positions or industries where experience and gravitas are valued. It requires regular grooming to look its best, reflecting a commitment to personal care and professionalism.

Short Boxed Beard

What does it look like? The short boxed beard is a more refined version of the full beard, closely cropped to outline the jawline and chin with precision. It combines length with structure, offering a clean and contemporary look.

Why it's suitable? This beard style is perfect for the professional setting due to its neat, deliberate lines that suggest meticulousness and attention to detail. It works well for men who wish to express individuality while maintaining a polished appearance.

Balbo Beard

What does it look like? The Balbo is characterized by a free-floating mustache and a trimmed, rounded beard that doesn't connect with the mustache. It requires precise grooming to define the distinct sections.

Why it's suitable? Ideal for creative or fashion-forward industries, the Balbo beard showcases personality and flair without overwhelming the face. It's a statement of confidence and style appropriate for those who want to stand out in a professional environment while still adhering to grooming standards.

Circle Beards and Goatees

What does it look like? Circle beards and goatees center around the mouth, combining a connected mustache and chin beard to form a circular shape. This style is carefully sculpted to maintain its defining contours.

Why it's suitable? These beards offer a balance of personality and professionalism, making them suitable for environments that appreciate a blend of individual expression and neatness. They are particularly flattering for elongating round or square face shapes, providing a focus on precision and grooming.

Formal Beard Styling Tips

Planning your formal beard? If you're heading to a fancy event, consider these tips when styling your beard: 

• Trim and Shape: Before the event, give your beard a good trim to ensure it looks neat and tidy. Use a quality trimmer to maintain the desired length and clean up any stray hairs for sharp, defined edges.
• Wash and Condition: Wash your beard with a gentle beard shampoo and follow with a conditioner to keep the hair soft and manageable. This prevents any itchiness and keeps your beard looking healthy.
• Apply Beard Oil: A few drops of beard oil can add shine and soften your beard, making it look well-groomed and pleasant to touch.
• Comb and Style: Use a beard comb to detangle and style your beard. This helps evenly distribute oils and lay down unruly hairs, enhancing the overall appearance.