All You Need to Know About Growing and Shaping Sideburns, From a Grooming Expert
From the sharp, structured sideburns of Bridgerton to the bold, bushy chops made iconic by Elvis in the ’70s, sideburns have always been a statement. They’ve gone from dandy to rock ‘n’ roll and everything in between – proving they’re more than just a passing trend.
These days, they’re as versatile as ever. Whether you’re into the clean-cut, defined look à la Noel Gallagher or prefer the barely-there style rocked by Barry Keoghan, there’s a sideburn style for you. But how do you know which length suits your face shape? Or how to keep them looking sharp (without veering into Wolverine territory)? Grooming expert and Supply Co-Founder Luke Davies is here to settle all your sideburn dilemmas once and for all.
What Are Sideburns?
'Sideburns are facial hair that connects your hairline to your beard (or stops at your ear if you’re clean-shaven). They run from the temples down to the bottom of the ear – or even longer if you’re feeling bold,' says Davies.
What’s the History of Sideburns?
Fun fact, the term ‘sideburns’ actually comes from Mr Ambrose Burnside, a 19th-century American General known for his distinctive facial hair.
'Over time, his name was flipped to "sideburns". Sideburns became popular in the 60s, thanks to iconic looks from Elvis Presley and The Beatles, but they continued to evolve with styles like the thick chops of the ‘70s and the subtle, tapered burns in the 90s and 2000s,' schools Davies.
What Are the Benefits of Sideburns?
You may think the long columns of facial hair have no benefits but Davies explains that's not the case. 'Sideburns can be a game-changer, helping frame the face, especially for those with rounder or softer features.'
He adds, 'they also add a bit of retro flair. Sideburns make beards and moustaches look more intentional and polished rather than disconnected. Whether you go for a subtle taper or a dramatic statement, they can complement a variety of haircuts, elevating a look, adding personality.'
How to Style Sideburns
'I think the best way to style sideburns is to keep them in proportion to your haircut. Shaggy or textured styles like mullets, and mod cuts pair well with fuller sideburns, while cleaner cuts and fades suit a tapered or faded look. Regular grooming is essential to prevent them from looking unkempt and messy. Also, defining their shape can actually compliment your face shape.'
What’s the Best Way to Remove Sideburns?
Davies explains that this depends on the look you want to achieve. 'For a completely clean finish, I’d recommend using a zero blade or foil shaver, followed by a wet shave. If you prefer a more natural transition, a 0.5-grade clipper will blend them seamlessly into your haircut without fully removing them.'
What Celebrities Have the Best Sideburns?
'Elvis Presley set the gold standard, making sideburns iconic.
Hugh Jackman, as Wolverine, took them to the extreme with rugged mutton chops, though these days, he tends to go for a more subtle, tapered look that defines his cheekbones.
David Beckham has had all kinds of styles, from sharp and tailored to soft and blended – though his 1999 jaw-grazers with the curtain bangs might be a bit questionable (but hey, never say never).
Jake Gyllenhaal tends to wear his longer, either with long hair or messy shorter styles, his longer sideburns always look good,' says Davies.
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