upper part of a vandyke beard informally

2 min read 16-02-2025

upper part of a vandyke beard informally

The Muttonchops: A Guide to the Upper Vandyke

The Vandyke beard, with its elegant pointed goatee and carefully sculpted cheek lines, is a classic style. But what about that distinctive upper portion, those charming, almost mutton-like sideburns? While the entire beard has a formal name, its upper part lacks a universally accepted formal term. However, informally, it's often referred to as muttonchops. This article will delve into the history, styling, and overall appeal of the muttonchops, the upper part of a Vandyke beard.

A Brief History of the Muttonchops

The muttonchop sideburns, while a part of the larger Vandyke style, have their own rich history. They gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly among Victorian-era gentlemen. Think of portraits of distinguished figures from that period; many sported these prominent sideburns. The name "muttonchops" itself is thought to derive from their resemblance to the meaty chops of a mutton (sheep) leg. The style conveys a sense of seriousness, even gravitas, making it a popular choice for those seeking a sophisticated look.

Styling Your Muttonchops: A Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving the perfect muttonchop requires precision and attention to detail. Here's a guide to help you cultivate and style this iconic facial hair feature:

1. Growing the Base: The first step, and arguably the most important, is growing out sufficient hair on your cheeks and jawline. This will likely take several weeks, depending on your hair growth rate. Patience is key!

2. Defining the Shape: Once you have enough length, use a sharp beard trimmer or scissors to define the shape of your muttonchops. Consider the overall balance with the rest of your facial hair. Do you want them to connect to your goatee, or remain distinct?

3. Maintaining Clean Lines: Regular trimming is crucial to keep your muttonchops looking sharp and well-defined. Aim for a neat, symmetrical appearance. Consider using a beard balm or oil to keep the hairs conditioned and well-groomed.

4. Experiment with Length and Style: The length and style of your muttonchops are entirely up to you! Experiment with different lengths to find what best suits your face shape and personal style. You might opt for longer, fuller chops, or a more streamlined, shorter look.

5. Connecting to the Goatee (Optional): You can choose to connect your muttonchops to your goatee for a more unified Vandyke style. Or, you can keep them distinct for a more modern interpretation.

Muttonchops vs. Other Beard Styles: What's the Difference?

While often associated with the Vandyke, the muttonchop sideburns can exist independently. Here's how they differ from other popular beard styles:

Sideburns Only: These are simply the sideburns without a goatee or connected facial hair.
Full Beard: This encompasses all facial hair, including cheeks, chin, and mustache.
Goatee: This is facial hair primarily on the chin, often with a small mustache.
Vandyke: This combines a goatee with distinct muttonchop sideburns.

Finding the Right Muttonchop Look for Your Face Shape

The ideal muttonchop style will vary depending on your face shape:

Round Faces: Longer, more defined muttonchops can help create the illusion of length.
Square Faces: Shorter, more rounded muttonchops can soften harsh angles.
Oval Faces: You're fortunate, as most styles will complement an oval face shape.

Remember, the most important aspect is to choose a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Conclusion: Embracing the Muttonchop

The muttonchop, the often-unspecified upper part of the Vandyke, is a stylish and versatile facial hair feature. Whether you're aiming for a classic Victorian look or a more contemporary interpretation, with the right care and attention, you can rock this timeless style. So, embrace your inner 19th-century gentleman (or modern man) and cultivate the perfect muttonchops to complement your overall look.