For some reason, the Van Dyke beard has always been a kind of beard that you hardly ever find outside of the fashion trends. It does not lose its character, quite the opposite, it stays and is almost like a period of time’s style. The features are very well balanced and polished, even elegant in a way. Comedians like that or painters of the past like the one in a picture with a goatee and separated mustache.
Those are the people who have used one or another integration of Van Dyke beard style. What about you? Why don’t you try the Van Dyke beard? This guide is simply the all-in-one solution for you. It is from the very beginning of faceline conception to rebirth in daily routine that it truly helps you out.
Let’s delve further with our story.
Major Highlights [Van Dyke Style Origins]
The Van Dyke beard derives its name from the 17th century Flemish painter, Anthony
van Dyck. This guy was not only famous for painting aristocrats, but also for wearing that pointed goatee and detached mustache combo. It was fashionable at that time, and bsurprisingly it still is, with some style modifications.
The style has changed with time, gained new followers, and even new names depending on the location of the users and the different ways of spelling Van Dyke. Similarly, modern trends like the broccoli haircut have emerged, evolving in both name and styling depending on region and personal flair.
Best Face Shapes for Van Dyke Beard
| Face Shape | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Oval | Excellent |
| Square | Great |
| Round | Moderate |
| Diamond | Good |
| Long | Can Work |
Getting the Look [How to Style It]
These are what you’ll need:
- Beard trimmer with adjustable guards
- Fine-tooth mustache comb
- Razor or precision trimmer
- Beard oil or balm
Facial hair will need to be grown a bit to begin. Let it all come in—don’t trim anything for at least a couple of weeks. A Van Dyke is not a last-minute type of beard.
Don’t forget to keep both your cheeks and jaw clean-shaven. This is what distinguishes the Van Dyke from a typical goatee or full beard.
Do not extend the goatee too much. The goatee should be kept close to the chin. The mustache should be separated from the beard, not connected. It is that separation which turns the Van Dyke into a goatee and not a regular goatee.
Van Dyke Goatee vs Regular Goatee [Different Things]
Some people see them as one and the same, but they aren’t. A normal goatee is just the part on the chin, sometimes a mustache is also there, sometimes not. The Van Dyke beard? It’s all about carefully done. Sharp edges. That one little area where the mustache and beard are not touching.
And, yes, it does take more effort. You will have to shave quite frequently to keep the area that is clean-shaven very clean. But that is the give and take.
Famous Van Dyke Beard Wearers [Johnny Depp Style and More]
Actually, a major reason that the Van Dyke beard style was brought back to life, is the guys like Johnny Depp. It’s however a bit untidier, less detailed, and more Depp-like, of his. But it still counts. That thin mustache and pointed beard combo? Classic.
Eddititionally few more figures were not shy about wearing it externally:
- Christian Bale [while shooting American Hustle]
- Pierce Brosnan [rarely]
- David Beckham [in between styles]
Maintenance and Daily Upkeep
This beard is not one that you can just leave without any attention and expect it to be fine. It needs to still be taken care of.
- Daily Check: Look for stray hairs or fading lines
- Shave Regularly: The non-beard areas need to stay smooth
- Trim Weekly: Keep the goatee and mustache in shape
- Use Products: A little balm or oil goes a long way, especially around the chin
It will be highly effective if your hair happens to be very coarse and curly, then you might need a beard softener for the beard.
A comb is used to hold the mustache in place while teaching it how to grow where you want it. It’s a painful task at the beginning but it definitely pays off.
Regional Names and Cultural Twists
If you are in Brazil, it might be what you call the cavanhaque Van Dyke. Stemming from different parts of Europe, the term Van Dyke bart is used. In the same way, regional styles and names also influence modern cuts like the low taper textured fringe, which blends classic tapering with contemporary flair.
The very fascinating thing to be that does the style way, getting rennamed or slightly changed, in fact, the core look remains the same.
No Perfection? Make It a Bit Messy
It is not necessary to get the Van Dyke beard styled as if you are an aristocrat. Those who do so, let the beard grow to the extent that it looks untamed and soft along the edges.
As long as the mustache is separate and the chin beard is the focus, it is still a Van Dyke. Beard culture is not one-size-fits-all. The right thing for you would be to figure out what suits you and then work accordingly.
FAQs
1: Is the Van Dyke beard attractive?
It depends on the face and the styling. For many, it becomes a way to highlight a face and add a mature edge.
2: What is the difference between a goatee and a Van Dyke?
Goatee can either be connected to a mustache or be separate. The Van Dyke is a mustache and chin beard with clean-shaven cheeks in between.
3: How long does it take to grow a Van Dyke beard?
The majority of the time, depending on the speed of your hair, it takes about 2 to 4 weeks for the Van Dyke to be fully grown.
4: Can I wear a Van Dyke beard with a patchy beard?
Yes, in particular, if your chin and mustache are growing nicely. It makes the patchy cheeks less noticeable.
5: What mustache style goes with a Van Dyke?
Thin pencil styles, handlebar, or natural thick mustaches are all compatible—you just need to decide on the contrast.
Root Allen is passionate about hair trends and modern grooming. He shares expert tips on the latest hairstyles and how to keep your look fresh year-round. With years of experience in hair blogging, Root breaks down complex styling trends into easy guides. His goal is to help readers confidently express themselves through their hair.