Decoding the beard

“Beards are an ego thing – it’s a sign of masculinity,” explains Craig Meggs, master barber for QT Hotels The Barber Shop in Sydney and Canberra. Whether you prefer designer stubble or a bush, here’s what your facial hair says about you.

Sexy stubble

Advocate: Ryan Gosling

What it says: You’re most likely a working professional: smart, sophisticated and have an eye for fashion. To keep looking sharp, you’ll need regular maintenance, “otherwise it could venture into the next stage”, says Meggs. “Keep it short and clean, and manscape it so it looks chiselled with neat edges.”

Wide & wild

Advocate: Brad Pitt

What it says: The classic hipster beard. “It’s a low maintenance style, but you still want it to look healthy, so using product is paramount,” explains Meggs. To groom your beard, “comb it out like an afro and trim it minimally to keep it sharp, otherwise it can get fuzzy and nest-like”.

Mo/Chinstrap combo

Advocate: David Beckham

What it says: You’re a high-maintenance man (but we’re sure you’re lovely). You are driven and know what you want, and you take your appearance seriously. Due to its intricate nature, this beard is a commitment. “A lot of effort is required so your style looks good all of the time,” says Meggs. “Keep the beard tapered with clippers, style your moustache with product, and regularly trim the ends.”

Goatee

Advocate: Johnny Depp

What it says: “This beard doesn’t suit many people, as you need to have brilliant bone structure to pull this off,” says Meggs. A goatee is for those looking to make a statement, and the individual style means “you can change it as often as you like to reflect your personality”.

Full & shapely

Advocate: Jake Gyllenhaal

What it says: This is for men who want a beard without looking like they are trying too hard. “They generally have a baby face and as this is a clean beard; it’s very tidy,” says Meggs. Regular brushing is a must, and Meggs advises clippering to maintain the shape for a manicured look.

Tool kit:

Remington VacGroom 2-in-1 Beard Trimmer; L’Oréal Paris Men Expert Hydra Energetic Moisturiser For 3 Day Beards; Tom Ford For Men Conditioning Beard Oil in Neroli Portofino