From painters and athletes to musketeers and actors, goatees have an important place in the history of men’s beard styles. While their popularity has suffered in recent years as fuller beards become the norm, many men still rock goatees in various styles and varieties. If you are considering a change of look, goatees can be a solid option as they can take you from feeling like a background character in any social event to being the protagonist you truly are.
Here are the most popular goatee types you should know, from long goatees to goatee beards, and so much more.
The Most Common Goatee Beard Styles
Classic Goatee
A classic goatee refers to hair grown on the chin and soul patch areas, but no mustache. The standard goatee without a mustache is the foundation for a variety of beard styles, though it can work on its own as well. The classic goatee is often kept shorter in length, anywhere from half-inch to one inch. The goatee is perhaps best known thanks to Shaggy from Scooby-Doo and a lot of baseball players, for some reason.
The Full Goatee
A classic and iconic style, the full goatee is a comprehensive version of the goatee style that forms a continuous circle of hair around the mouth. This stubble goatee style incorporates a mustache that connects seamlessly to a beard, encapsulating the lips and chin. The hair in the full goatee is evenly distributed, providing a symmetrical and balanced appearance that can enhance facial features, particularly a strong jawline.
The full goatee creates an authoritative and mature aesthetic, often associated with characters who possess a certain charisma and charm. A prime example of the full goatee's shape in popular culture is Tony Stark (played by Robert Downey Jr.) from the Iron Man and Avengers franchise. The character's iconic full goatee not only defined his personal style but also became an integral aspect of his on-screen persona, underscoring his bold and innovative character traits.
Chin Puff
Maybe the chin puff should be the standard goatee as it is the style that closest resembles an actual goat beard. Like the classic goatee, the puff of chin hair doesn’t include a mustache, but all the hair is grown from the chin or lower lip area and kept at least 2 inches in length. Chin beard puffs can be wide or narrow, with triangular face shapes like a landing strip, and they can commonly be seen on guitarists from metal bands of the ’90s.
Circle or Boxed Goatee
The circle beard, also known as the boxed goatee, is perhaps the most common goatee style. The style connects the hair on your chin to your mustache to form a defined, “boxed” frame around your mouth.
The circle beard or boxed goatee is perhaps one of the most universally adopted goatee styles due to its versatility and universally flattering design. This style entails the formation of a square face shape with a well-defined, box-like frame around the mouth by connecting the mustache to the chin beard. While this style is most often kept short and neat, it can also be grown out for a more dramatic effect.
Several notable celebrities have popularized the boxed goatee, including rapper and producer Kanye West, Hollywood actor Brad Pitt, and television personality Guy Fieri, each adopting their unique take on the style. This classic goatee style is an excellent option for anyone looking to add a refined, stylish touch to their facial aesthetic.
Disconnected or Hipster Goatee
Probably the most popular goatee style nowadays, this standard goatee style is similar to the boxed version, but the mustache is disconnected from the goatee on your chin. This trendy style is prevalent among young men as it is the easiest goatee style to grow for those who don’t have fully-developed beards. This type of goatee is usually kept short and more on the narrow side, though it can also be worn wider. For reference, Google Johnny Depp or Michael B. Jordan.
Van Dyke Goatee
A trendy variation of the goatee is the Van Dyke, named after the 17th-century artist, Anthony Van Dyke, but best known as Colonel Sanders' signature goatee style. This style includes a disconnected mustache and a goatee, with facial hair on the cheeks completely shaved.
In more modern times, this style has also been popularized by the version of Guy Fawkes masks. The Van Dyke is an exceptional style that often adds an artistic, free-spirited flair. Celebrities like Johnny Depp and Viggo Mortensen have also been spotted flaunting this style.
Anchor Beard
The anchor beard gets its name because—you guessed it—it’s supposed to resemble a ship’s anchor. To achieve this style, made famous by Robert Downey Jr’s Tony Stark, simply let your goatee grow outward along the jawline similar to the Van Dyke, except this style doesn’t connect with the mustache. The key point here is that the goatee beard should be wider than the mustache, and the soul path should connect to your goatee, so they form a shape similar to a ship’s anchor.
Scruffy Goat
This is the go-to goatee beard for those aiming for a more natural, rugged look. The most popular version of this style combines a dense hipster or anchor beard goatee with a couple of days of stubble grown on the cheeks and neck. In this style, the goatee should be longer than the scruff, so it is more prominent. If you are new to goatees, this is probably the best way to get started.
The Extended Goatee
Also known as the Hollywoodian or tailback thick goatee, the extended goatee is a combination of a mustache and a goatee, extended along the jawline, but not as far as a full beard anchor goatee would. This goatee style is best for those wanting a robust look without the commitment to a full beard. The extended goatee can be seen sported by actors like Ben Affleck and Hugh Jackman.
The Goat Patch
The goat patch is a minimalistic goatee style that focuses on a small patch of hair below the lower lip. This style, popular with younger generations, suits those with a more laid-back, easy-going style and adds a youthful, playful edge to your appearance.
The Musketeer
The Musketeer is a goatee style that exudes an air of classic charm and sophistication, perfectly blending the past and the present. It consists of a distinguished handlebar mustache paired with a small chin beard, creating an elegant 'T' shape on the face. The handlebar mustache is characterized by its twisted ends, curved elegantly upwards, resembling the handlebars of a bicycle. The chin beard, meanwhile, is neat and concise, adding to the dapper appearance.
This style is a nod to 17th-century European fashion, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate vintage styles. It also imparts a sense of individuality and character, setting the wearer apart from the crowd. The Musketeer goatee has been famously worn by actors like Orlando Bloom in his role as the Duke of Buckingham in the film, "The Three Musketeers."
The Landing Strip
The Landing Strip is the embodiment of modern, minimalist style in the realm of goatees. This style is defined by a narrow vertical line of hair that runs from the bottom lip down to the chin. This line of hair is kept neatly trimmed and precise, serving as a stark, yet subtle statement on an otherwise clean-shaven face.
The Landing Strip goatee adds a contemporary and unique twist to the traditional goatee styles. Its sleek and minimalist design makes it a great choice for those who prefer a clean-cut and refined look. It's also a great option for those who can't or prefer not to grow a full goatee. Celebrities like Ryan Gosling have been seen sporting this style, further testament to its modern appeal.
The Norse Skipper
The Norse Skipper goatee style is a tribute to the rugged aesthetics of the seafaring Vikings. This style features a fuller and longer chin beard that extends well beyond the chin, paired with a distinct mustache. The mustache can range from a simple, neatly trimmed style to a fuller, bushier version, depending on personal preference.
The distinctive feature of the Norse Skipper is the extended chin beard, which gives the style a strong and masculine feel. This goatee style is perfect for those seeking a bold and robust look, and it particularly suits those with a good capacity for facial hair growth. The Norse Skipper is a popular choice among actors in historic and fantasy roles, such as Travis Fimmel in his role as Ragnar Lothbrok in "Vikings."
The Petite Goatee
The Petite Goatee is a softer, subtler take on the classic goatee style. It features a small, neatly-trimmed patch of hair centered on the chin. Unlike the full goatee, which extends to encircle the mouth, the Petite Goatee is focused solely on the chin, providing a simple, yet stylish statement.
This style is an excellent choice for those who prefer understated elegance or those who have less facial hair growth. Despite its simplicity, the Petite Goatee can significantly enhance the wearer's look, accentuating the chin and lending a distinguished touch to the overall appearance. It is popularly worn by the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert Pattinson, adding a dash of chic subtlety to their looks.
How to Choose the Right Goatee Style
Choosing the right goatee style can be a fascinating yet daunting task, given the variety of options available. The key to mastering this decision is understanding how each style can complement your face shape, personal style, and lifestyle. Below, we'll discuss some tips to help you choose the best goatee style that suits you perfectly.
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Evaluate Your Face Shape
Each goatee style suits different face shapes, enhancing certain features of round face shape while downplaying others.
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For Round Faces: If you have a round face, you may want to choose a goatee style that will help to elongate your face. A goatee with a pointed chin, such as the Van Dyke goatee, can help to create the illusion of a longer face.
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For Square Faces: If you have a square face, you may want to choose a goatee style that will help to soften your features. A goatee with a rounded chin, such as the petite goatee, can help to create a more balanced look. Try the extended goatee or the anchor to soften the angular features of the face.
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For Oval Faces: You're in luck! Most goatee styles look good on this face shape. Choose based on your personal preference.
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For Rectangular Faces: Opt for fuller styles like the full or Van Dyke goatee that can balance out the length of the face.
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Consider Your Personal Style
Your goatee should reflect your personality and blend well with your wardrobe. If you usually dress casually, a relaxed, less precise goatee style like the goat patch might be the best fit. On the other hand, if you often dress formally, the best goatee styles are for a neat and well-groomed style like the classic or Van Dyke goatee.
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Understand Your Lifestyle
Your daily routine and professional environment should factor into your decision. If you work in a creative or relaxed environment, you may have the freedom to explore unique styles like the anchor or the Van Dyke beard. In more conservative environments, consider sticking to the classic or full goatee.
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Evaluate Your Grooming Skills
Some goatee styles require more grooming than others. The full and extended goatees need regular trimming to maintain their shapes, while the classic or goat patches are easier to maintain. If you're new to facial grooming or don't have much time for upkeep, opt for a simpler style.
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Think About Your Hair Growth
Your ability to grow facial hair can also influence your choice. Some styles, like the full goatee, require a good amount of facial hair, while the classic goatee or goat patch is better suited to those who can't yet grow a goatee or full beard or prefer less facial hair.
There's a world of goatee styles out there, each offering its own unique charisma and aesthetic appeal. Whether you opt for the classic, full, anchor, Van Dyke, extended, or goat patch style, the right goatee can transform your look, adding personality and sophistication. Remember, the best goatee style is the one that you feel most confident in and suits your face shape, style, and lifestyle. Happy grooming!
How to Groom and Maintain Your Goatee
To keep your goatee looking its best, it is important to groom it regularly. You will need to trim your goatee to keep it the desired length and shape. You may also want to use a beard trimmer to keep stray hairs on your goatee neat and tidy.
Grooming and maintaining your goatee is an essential step in rocking this facial hairstyle. Proper upkeep not only ensures your goatee looks sharp but also promotes healthy skin and hair. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced beard grower, here are some key steps to help you maintain your goatee in top shape.
Here are some useful tips to maintain and care for your goatee:
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Regular Trimming
Regardless of the goatee style you choose, regular trimming is crucial to maintain its shape and appearance. Invest in a quality beard trimmer with multiple guard lengths to give you the flexibility to groom according to your desired style. For precise cuts around the edges of the goatee, you may also want to consider a straight razor.
So, what are you waiting for? Go grab your trimmer and shape your beard into one of these goatee styles to catch everyone’s eyes at your next event. And don’t forget a beard pomade or beard jelly to give your goatee facial hair a little more personality!
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Keep It Clean
Just like your hair, your goatee needs regular washing. It is very important to wash your goatee regularly. This will help to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. You can use a regular facial cleanser to wash your goatee.
Use a gentle beard shampoo or cleanser to remove dirt, sweat, and excess beard oils afterwards. This not only keeps your goatee clean but also helps prevent skin irritation and beard dandruff. Remember to rinse thoroughly to ensure no residue is left behind.
Shop your top beard oil and beard grooming kit products!
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Moisturize
Facial hair can draw moisture away from the skin, causing it to become dry and itchy. Use a beard oil or balm after washing your goatee to hydrate both your skin and facial hair. These products also help to soften the beard, reduce frizz, and give your goatee a healthy shine.
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Brushing and Combing
Regular brushing or combing is beneficial for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it helps distribute the natural oils evenly through your facial hair, keeping it moisturized and healthy. Secondly, it trains your beard hair not to grow in a particular direction, making it easier to shape and style your goatee. For best results, use a beard brush with natural bristles or a fine-toothed comb.
Looking for combs and brushes? Check out Bossman Brand's Beard Comb and Brushes.
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Maintain Clear Boundaries
One of the hallmarks of a well-maintained goatee is clear, clean lines. Make sure to shave or trim a goatee from the rest of your face regularly to maintain the distinction between your goatee and the rest of your facial hair. Again, a straight razor is handy for this purpose, offering precision and control.
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Practice a Healthy Lifestyle
Lastly, remember that healthy hair growth is also dependent on a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and proteins can promote healthier and fuller hair growth. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin and hair hydrated. Exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management also contribute to overall hair health.
In Summary
Goatee styles are a great way to your facial hair style and add personality and style to your look. With so many different styles to choose from, you are sure to find one that suits your face shape and personal style.
Maintaining a goatee isn't just about looking good—it's about feeling good too. By following our tips, you can ensure your goatee stays in prime condition, reflecting your commitment to self-care. Whether you sport a classic, full, or Van Dyke goatee, remember: the secret to a great goatee lies in regular maintenance and care.
With a little care and attention, you can easily grow and maintain a goatee that you love.