Goatee beards are versatile, stylish, and flattering for many face shapes. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, professional look or something a bit more rugged and edgy, there’s a goatee style that fits. The beauty of the goatee lies in its balance — it offers facial hair without the full commitment of a full beard and adds character without being overwhelming. Here are the top 12 goatee beard styles that every modern man should consider.
1. Classic Goatee
The classic goatee is a small patch of hair on the chin, just below the bottom lip, and it doesn’t connect to a mustache. This minimalist beard style is perfect for men who prefer low-maintenance grooming and a neat, tidy look. It works well for men with oval or narrow faces as it draws attention to the chin and can give the face more dimension. It’s also a great choice for those just starting to explore facial hair styles.
2. Full Goatee (Circle Beard)
The full goatee, or circle beard, is perhaps the most popular variation. It connects a rounded beard around the mouth by linking the mustache and chin hair. This creates a “circle” effect and provides a fuller, more defined facial frame. It works exceptionally well for men with round or square faces, offering both sharpness and structure. This style is ideal for professionals who want a polished and distinguished look.
3. Van Dyke Goatee
The Van Dyke goatee is a stylish and somewhat artistic variation. It consists of a pointed chin beard and a disconnected mustache, often styled with some flair. This look, named after the 17th-century painter Anthony van Dyck, offers a vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. It’s best for men with prominent cheekbones or narrow jawlines, as it directs attention to the center of the face. Great for creative individuals and those who enjoy grooming with a bit of panache.
4. Anchor Goatee
The anchor goatee is sharp, angular, and highly stylized. It includes a pointed chin beard, a soul patch, and a mustache, shaped to resemble an anchor. This style requires precision and maintenance, but the result is striking. It suits men with square or angular jawlines and adds an air of boldness. The anchor goatee is a statement-maker — ideal for those who want to stand out while maintaining sophistication.
5. Goatee with Soul Patch
A soul patch is the small tuft of hair just below the lower lip, and pairing it with a goatee enhances the depth and texture of the style. The soul patch can be subtle or pronounced, depending on your preference. This combination suits most face shapes and is a perfect choice for men who want a touch of flair without going over the top. It’s easy to maintain and allows for creative tweaks based on facial proportions.
6. Extended Goatee
Also known as the “tailback” or “Hollywoodian,” the extended goatee features a mustache connected to a wide chin beard that stretches toward the jawline without forming full cheeks. This style gives more facial coverage and is ideal for men who want the feel of a beard without the density of a full one. It flatters oblong and diamond-shaped faces, adding width and balance. The extended goatee is bold, masculine, and great for men who want a rugged yet refined appearance.
7. Disconnected Goatee
The disconnected goatee removes the mustache from the equation, focusing solely on a defined chin beard. It’s clean, edgy, and easy to maintain. This minimalist style works best for men with sharp jawlines and can be shaped to be square or pointed. It’s also perfect for younger men or those who struggle to grow a full beard. The disconnected goatee gives a modern, no-fuss aesthetic with plenty of edge.
8. Goatee with Stubble
Combining a neatly groomed goatee with light stubble on the cheeks adds contrast and ruggedness to your overall look. It gives the best of both worlds — the definition of a goatee with the masculine edge of facial stubble. This look is great for men with patchy cheek hair who want to embrace it instead of hiding it. It requires minimal effort while still offering structure and character.
9. Pointed Goatee
The pointed goatee is a bold and dramatic version of the classic style. It elongates the chin and adds definition, making it ideal for men with round or wide faces. It can be paired with a mustache or worn alone, depending on how strong you want the statement to be. This style requires some shaping to keep the lines sharp, but it delivers a high-impact, fashion-forward look for those willing to commit.
10. Scruffy Goatee
A scruffy goatee is all about embracing a more laid-back, rugged charm. It’s less defined, with a natural growth pattern that blends chin and mustache hair without overly sharp lines. This casual style is perfect for creative professionals or men who want a mature look without appearing too polished. It works especially well with wavy or curly facial hair and pairs well with a tousled hairstyle or laid-back wardrobe.
