
Style: Man and His Beard
.
There’s something undeniably iconic about a man and his beard. From the rugged pioneers of history to the carefully groomed gents of today, beards have always held a place in the story of masculinity. But over the past decade, beards have gone from being a niche statement to a global phenomenon, adorning faces everywhere from hip coffee shops to corporate boardrooms. What’s behind this resurgence, and why does facial hair continue to captivate us?
Historically, beards have been loaded with meaning. In ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, beards were symbols of power and status, often groomed meticulously or even adorned with gold. Greek philosophers like Socrates sported beards as badges of wisdom. In the Victorian era, industrialization gave rise to the belief that beards were a mark of health and virility, protecting men from the cold and even warding off disease.
The 20th century, however, saw the decline of the beard. Clean-shaven faces became the norm, partly due to military regulations and the rise of mass-marketed razors. Beards, once symbols of prestige, were relegated to the fringes—adopted by beatniks, hippies, and countercultural movements of the 1960s and 1970s.

Fast forward to the 2010s, and the beard is back in full force. The resurgence can be credited to a mix of cultural, social, and economic factors. First, the rise of social media has turned grooming into a visual art form. Platforms like Instagram have created spaces for men to celebrate their facial hair, with countless influencers and barbers showcasing perfectly shaped beards.
Second, the modern man’s relationship with traditional masculinity has evolved. Beards have come to signify a return to authenticity and individuality in a world of digital filters and fast fashion. Growing a beard requires patience and care, qualities that stand out in an era of instant gratification.
Finally, the rise of artisanal and bespoke culture—think craft beer, bespoke tailoring, and gourmet coffee—has elevated grooming to an art form. Beard oils, balms, and grooming kits now line the shelves of department stores, turning facial hair into a multi-billion-dollar industry.
Beards, in essence, have become a bridge between tradition and modernity. Whether worn as a statement of style, a nod to heritage, or simply as a personal preference, the beard is more than just facial hair—it’s a timeless icon of identity and self-expression.
