How to find the best moustache and beard styles for your face shape

How to find good moustache styles for your face shape

Moustache bring a lot of character, so they can be tougher to choose than beards. So here’s some advice on on how to choose a style that suits your features from moustache expert Dr. Allan Peterkin*:

“When choosing a facial hairstyle, consider the size of your facial features … The right style should complement your face without overpowering it or being overpowered by it.”

So when it comes to the ‘tache, finding the best facial hair for the face shape you’re working with is essentially a matter of balance. Dr. Peterkin has the following (essential) tips:

• “If you’ve got large facial features (mouth, nose, eyes, and chin), go for a larger, bushier moustache or beard style. It will balance out your facial features and provide a softer look.” 
• “If you have a prominent nose, consider a larger, thicker moustache such as a Chevron, Painter’s Brush or Handlebar, but steer clear of thinner designs.”
• “A long, narrow face requires a narrow-to-medium-sized moustache that’s not too heavy in length or design. Stick to shorter styles and skinnier lines, such as the Clark Gable, Chaplin, or Military moustaches . Stay away from styles with vertical lines – such as the Horseshoe – that will only accentuate the length of your face.”
• “If you’ve got an extra-large mouth, choose an angular style such as the Pyramid moustache , that’s narrow at the top and wide at the bottom. The variety in length and angles will minimise the size of your mouth.”
• “Don’t overpower a smallish mouth with a big, bushy moustaches . Instead, go for a shorter style. Growing the ‘stache a little past the corners of your mouth will make your mouth appear a bit larger.”
• “If you’ve got a wide mouth with a big upper lip, consider a large, bushy moustache with a parting that divides the moustaches into two sections.”
  
  

* Reprinted with permission from the book ‘The Bearded Gentleman: The Style Guide to Shaving Face’ by Allan Peterkin and Nick Burns (Arsenal Pulp Press)