I’ve always been drawn to beard styles that stand out, and the mutton chops beard has a boldness that’s hard to ignore. There’s something about those thick sideburns and strong lines that instantly grabs attention and adds character.
The mutton chops beard is one of the most distinctive and historically rich beard styles for men. Known for its bold sideburns and strong jaw-defining shape, it has evolved through generations while maintaining its rugged appeal.
Today, mutton chops are making a comeback! Not just as a vintage nod, but as a modern expression of confidence and individuality.
In this post, I’m sharing my 9 favorite and the most famous mutton chops beard styles that are timeless, expressive, and definitely worth trying if you’re into facial hair with attitude.
What Is Mutton Chops Beard?
A mutton chops beard is a bold facial hair style where thick sideburns extend down the cheeks and are often connected to a mustache, though sometimes worn without one.
The chin is usually clean-shaven, highlighting the jawline. Popular in the 19th century and revived in modern styles, it’s known for its rugged, masculine appearance. The mutton chops beard style has some resemblance to the imperial beard.
Mutton Chops Beard Style History
The famous mutton chops beard dates back to the 19th century, gaining popularity during the Victorian era. It was named after it resembled a cut of meat and was favored by military men and prominent figures for its bold, masculine look. The style saw revivals in the 1970s and again through pop culture icons like Wolverine.
Which Face Shape Suits Mutton Chops?
Mutton chops beard style is the most flattering on square, oval, and oblong face shapes, as they enhance strong jawlines and add structure to longer faces.
- For square faces, the style highlights masculine angles and gives a bold, balanced look.
- Oval faces suit nearly any beard, and mutton chops add character without overpowering natural proportions.
- For oblong faces, the wide cheek coverage of mutton chops helps visually shorten the face, creating better balance.
- If you have a round face, consider a more tapered or narrow version of mutton chops to avoid adding extra width.
Customizing the length and thickness based on your features can make the style work for almost any face shape.
9 Most Trending Mutton Chops Beard Styles
Here are my top picks for most trending mutton chops beard styles you must check out.
1. Modern Mutton Chops Beard
The modern mutton chops beard gives a fresh twist to the classic style, often with cleaner lines and a more sculpted finish. It’s a short beard style which balances ruggedness with style, making it suitable for both casual and edgy fashion statements. This version pairs well with faded haircuts or sharp grooming for a bold, contemporary look.
2. Victorian Mutton Chops Beard
Inspired by 19th-century gentlemen, the Victorian mutton chops are thick, bushy, and often paired with a clean-shaven chin. This style speaks of old-world charm and confidence, evoking a strong historical presence. It’s ideal for those who want to channel vintage sophistication with a bold twist.
3. Friendly Mutton Chops Beard
Friendly mutton chops connect the sideburns to a mustache, forming a unified frame around the cheeks and mouth. This variation feels approachable and warm, hence the name “friendly.” It adds character without looking overly aggressive or dramatic.
4. Mutton Chops Beard with Mustache
Adding a mustache to mutton chops enhances the fullness and brings balance to the facial hair. This combo creates a bold and classic look that feels both vintage and powerful. This version of mutton chops is a medium-length beard style. It’s great for those who want to stand out while maintaining a traditional edge.
5. Mutton Chops Beard No Mustache
This clean version skips the mustache and emphasizes the cheek and jawline growth. It’s a daring, minimalistic take on the style that draws attention to facial structure. Perfect for someone who wants to keep things sharp and unconventional.
6. Mutton Chops Beard Black Man
On Black men, mutton chops can look incredibly sharp, especially when blended with textured or shaped afros or fades. The contrast in beard thickness and hair texture adds depth and personality to the look. It’s a powerful style that celebrates individuality and heritage.
7. Wolverine Mutton Chops Beard
Inspired by the iconic comic character, Wolverine’s mutton chops are thick, wild, and merge into a pointed chin patch. This fierce, untamed look channels raw masculinity and rebellion. It’s a top choice for those wanting a bold, action-hero vibe.
8. Long Mutton Chops Beard
Long style beard mutton chops stretch down the jaw and may even extend toward the chest, offering a dramatic, old-school feel. This style demands patience and upkeep but pays off with a striking presence. It’s ideal for those who love a beard that makes a strong, unmistakable statement.
9. Hugh Jackman Mutton Chops Beard
Popularized by Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine, this style is characterized by its dense, edgy, and expertly groomed appearance. It balances roughness with Hollywood polish, making it a pop culture favorite. Fans of the actor or character often adopt this version for its rugged yet charismatic appeal.
How To Do Mutton Chops Beard Style
Doing a Mutton Chops beard is an easy 6-step process.
Step 1: Let the Sideburns Take Over
Grow out thick sideburns extending down to the jawline. This forms the base of mutton chops.
Step 2: Carve Out the Chin Clean
Shave the chin area fully to create the distinct split-beard look.
Step 3: Shape the Chops Bold and Wide
Trim the sideburns into thick, defined lines from ears to jaw for that dramatic cheek coverage.
Step 4: Add the Mustache (Or Not)
Choose between a clean look (no mustache) or go for styles like Friendly or Wolverine with one.
Step 5: Keep the Edges Sharp
Use a precision trimmer to clean up cheek lines and the neckline regularly.
Step 6: Choose Your Finish: Neat or Rugged
Style for a clean, modern appearance, or leave it a bit wild for a vintage or rugged vibe.
FAQs
Why do people wear a beard with mutton chops?
People wear a beard with mutton chops to enhance the fullness and style of the look. Adding a mustache or chin patch can create variations like Friendly or Wolverine chops, giving more character and personal flair. It also balances facial features and adds a bold, rugged appeal.
Why are they called mutton chops?
They’re called mutton chops because the thick, curved shape of the sideburns resembles a cut of cooked mutton meat. The name became popular in the 19th century when the style was widely worn and associated with strength and masculinity.
Who invented the mutton chops beard?
While no single person invented the mutton chops beard style, the style gained prominence in the early 1800s, especially among British and American military officers. U.S. Civil War General Ambrose Burnside famously wore them, helping popularize the look, leading to the term “sideburns” derived from his name.
Are mutton chops fashionable?
Mutton chops aren’t mainstream, but they make a strong fashion statement for those who want a bold, retro, or alternative style. They’re especially popular in subcultures, cosplay, or among fans of vintage fashion. When styled right, they can look modern and edgy, even iconic.
What is a mutton chops beard 1800s?
In the 1800s, a mutton chops beard style referred to thick, bushy sideburns that extended down the cheeks and were often paired with a clean-shaven chin. Popular during the Victorian era, especially among military men and aristocrats, it symbolized masculinity, authority, and style. The name came from its resemblance to a cut of mutton meat.
Wrapping Up: Best Mutton Chops Beard Styles
Mutton chops beard styles offer a unique way to express personality through facial hair. With the right shape, grooming, and a touch of attitude, this historic beard style can look just as fresh today as it did centuries ago.
So if you’re ready to stand out from the beard crowd, it’s time to let those sideburns shine. It’s your choice to go with any type of mutton chops, from clean-cut modern chops to wild Wolverine whiskers. Just see which type suits your face the most and try it out!
