How To Style a Van Dyke Beard Like a Pro

The Van Dyke beard is a serious power move. It’s sharp, bold, and has a classic edge that lets everyone know you mean business. 

Whether you're going for a sleek, sophisticated look or just want to add some swagger to your everyday style, the Van Dyke checks all the boxes. This is the beard for guys who want to keep things clean but aren’t afraid to stand out.

At The Beard Club, we know a thing or two about dialing in the perfect facial hair style. If you're ready to master the Van Dyke, grab your gear — let’s get this look on lock.

What Is the Van Dyke Beard?

The Van Dyke beard is a style that makes an impact. It’s a pointed chin beard paired with a disconnected mustache and clean-shaven cheeks that let your facial hair do the talking. It's the kind of look that’s as sharp as it sounds. 

Originally worn by 17th-century painter Anthony Van Dyck, it’s made a modern comeback for guys who want a balance between rugged charm and clean-cut class. It’s a timeless beard style that doesn’t mess around.

Is the Van Dyke Beard Right for You?

This beard is best if you want precision. You’re not growing out a wild mane here; it’s about clean lines and standout facial hair. The Van Dyke is perfect if you have strong facial features or just want to add some edge to your look. 

Got a square or oval face? Even better — the Van Dyke helps define your jawline. That said, don’t sweat it if your face doesn’t match up exactly. This beard style is flexible. 

If you like rocking a mustache and chin beard without the commitment of full coverage, the Van Dyke is calling your name.

How Long Does It Take To Grow a Van Dyke Beard?

Patience, friend. Growing a Van Dyke beard isn’t something you rush. In fact, you’ll need a solid two to four weeks to get your facial hair to the right length. It doesn’t have to be a full beard; just enough growth to shape the mustache and chin beard. 

The key is control. This isn’t about letting your hair run wild but dialing in a clean, sculpted look.

Want to speed things up? Make sure you're feeding those follicles. Our Beard Vitamins give your hair some extra help while keeping everything hydrated to ensure it comes in strong and healthy. Take care of your hair from the start, and you’ll be shaping up a Van Dyke in no time.

How To Shape the Perfect Van Dyke Beard

You've got the growth — now it’s time to shape this bad boy. The Van Dyke is all about precision, so let’s get it looking sharp. 

First, focus on the mustache and chin beard. These are the stars of the show. Keep the mustache full, trimming just enough to give it a defined shape. You want a nice, clean break between the mustache and chin beard. No connecting lines here!

Trim the chin beard into a pointed or rounded shape, depending on your mood. The rest? Clean-shaven. No fuzz on the cheeks or neck; keep it tight. This is where our PT45 Electric Trimmer comes in clutch. Trust us, you don’t want to eyeball this look with a cheap tool. Use a solid trimmer to carve out clean lines, and you're golden.

For that final touch? Hit it with some of our beard oil to keep the hair smooth and in line. Grooming requires care and attention, so don’t skimp on the details. Get that sharp shape, and the Van Dyke will do all the rest.

What Are Common Van Dyke Beard Mistakes?

Even if you’ve put in the time and effort, a small slip can throw off your Van Dyke look. To help you keep it sharp and intentional, let’s run through a few common pitfalls you should steer clear of:

Going Overboard With the Mustache

The mustache should complement, not overwhelm. Letting it grow too thick or untamed can mess with the balance of your whole style. Keep it neat and trimmed to avoid covering your upper lip. Precision is everything here.

Sloppy Lines

The Van Dyke requires clean, well-defined edges, especially around the chin. Whether you go for a pointed or rounded shape, keep those lines sharp. Anything too loose will make it look messy, so always check your work and make sure it’s crisp.

Skipping Regular Maintenance

Even though the Van Dyke is a defined style, it needs constant care to stay fresh. Letting it grow too long without regular touch-ups or ignoring stray hairs is a rookie move. Stay on top of trimming to keep it looking intentional, not accidental.

Are There Different Ways To Style a Van Dyke Beard?

We’ve covered the basics, but maybe you’re the kind of guy who likes to mix things up. Lucky for you, the Van Dyke has options. No matter if you want to keep it classic or add some flair, here are a few ways to switch up your style and keep it fresh:

The Rounded Van Dyke

Not into a pointed look? Go for a rounded chin beard instead. This variation softens the edges but keeps the sharp, disconnected mustache. It’s a little more laid-back while still packing a punch — great if you want the style but prefer a smoother finish.

The Extended Mustache Van Dyke

Want to put more focus on the ‘stache? Let the mustache grow a little longer and give it some curl for extra flair. The chin beard stays the same, but with a styled mustache, you add swagger to the classic look. This one is for those who want to make an even bolder first impression.

The Short Van Dyke

If a full-length beard isn’t your thing, keep it short and sharp. The mustache and chin beard can be trimmed closer to the face for a more minimalist take on the Van Dyke. It’s clean, easy to maintain, and still has a defined style without the bulk.

The Subtle Van Dyke

For low-maintenance guys who still want the Van Dyke vibes, keep everything toned down. A smaller chin beard with a simple, well-groomed mustache makes for a more subtle, laid-back version of this iconic style. It’s perfect if you want a distinguished look without too much upkeep.

How Often Should You Trim a Van Dyke Beard?

Trimming is crucial to keeping the Van Dyke looking sharp. This beard style thrives on clean lines and a crisp shape, so aim for a touch-up every week or two. Keeping the mustache in check and the chin beard tight will help maintain a bold, defined look. 

If the edges start to blur or the hair gets a little too wild, that’s the cue for a trim. Consistency is the name of the game; regular trims keep a Van Dyke fresh and ready to impress, whether it’s for work or the weekend.

How To Tell the Difference Between a Goatee and a Van Dyke

These two styles get confused a lot, but there’s a big difference. A goatee is all about the chin. It can be small, medium, or full, but the key is that it’s just the chin hair without a mustache. That’s where the Van Dyke shakes things up. 

The Van Dyke brings a mustache into the mix, but it’s separate from the chin. The mustache and chin beard don’t connect, making the Van Dyke more defined and polished. If the mustache is part of the action but isn’t touching the chin beard, you’ve got a Van Dyke. If it’s just a chin and no mustache, that’s your classic goatee.

What Are Other Essential Beard Care Tips?

Regardless of if you’re rocking a Van Dyke, Chevron, Balbo, or whatever suits your style, these beard care tips will keep your facial masterpiece looking on point. 

Let’s break down the essentials:

• Wash Regularly: A clean beard is a happy beard. Use beard shampoo to remove dirt and keep your beard looking fresh without stripping away its natural oils.
• Brush It Out: Our Boar Bristle Beard Brush helps distribute natural oils and keeps your whiskers smooth, tangle-free, and ready for action.
• Hydrate the Skin: Don’t forget the skin underneath. Keep it moisturized to avoid beard dandruff and irritation.
• Trim Regularly: Stay sharp with weekly touch-ups. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your lines clean and your beard looking fresh.

The Final Word

If you’re ready to own the Van Dyke beard, you’ve already got the tools to make it happen. This beard style is a throwback to timeless class with a modern edge. With these tips and tricks, you’re ready to keep your chin beard crisp and your mustache on point. 

At The Beard Club, we’ve got your back. If you’re fine-tuning your lines or leveling up your grooming routine, we have what you need to keep your beard game strong. Ready to get serious about your facial hair? Join the club.

Sources:

Sir Anthony van Dyck | The National Gallery of Art

Goatees: Cool and Progressive or Outdated and Passe? | HowStuffWorks

The Importance of Moisturizing | UT Medical Center

Minimalist Definition & Meaning | Britannica