BOSS THE BEARD

Cheap, versatile and adaptable, facial hair can change the shape of a man’s face and completely alter how he looks in jeans and a T-shirt or even a suit.

- NIVEDITA GIRI

A few whiskers here and there can make a babyface look older, draw attention away from a thinning thatch and hide a multitude of sins (or chins). In short, it allows a man to be the ultimate chameleon. You know, the history of beard dates back to prehistoric times when scientists believed that men grow facial hair for certain basic reasons, such as warmth, a natural shield of protection and a sign of intimidation. They were only ever cut as punishment, to mark the men who were not worthy of keeping their beards because of what they’d done.

Apart from being a symbol of masculinity, beards among men have also been venerated at a higher level than almost anywhere else. Longbeards stood for dignity and wisdom, strength and courage, and this is often the case today. Beards in these places were so revered that they were also used in the prosecution of crimes. In addition, men also pledged their beards for the payment of a debt. However, what’s more, despite the ‘peak beard’ protestations of clean-shaven style pundits and the wishful thinking of big bucks razor manufacturers, the beard is very much here to stay. The only question that a man has to ask about facial hair these days is which style to have, and that is why we have brought to you a style guide, covering everything from how to rock a smattering of stubble to how to tame a full-on grizzly beard.

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