Walk down any street in Manhattan and you'll notice it—beards aren’t going anywhere. From boardrooms to brunch spots, a well-groomed beard has become a staple of modern style. But here’s the thing: growing a beard is easy—keeping it sharp is the real game.

If you are still letting your beard grow wild and free without a trimming strategy, it’s time for a refresh. Because the truth is, the right beard trim does more than clean up your face—it balances your features, complements your haircut, and instantly boosts your overall look. So whether you are aiming for sleek and corporate or rugged with edge, here are five timeless beard trim styles every man should have in his grooming arsenal.

1. The Corporate Beard (aka: Cleaned-Up Full Beard)

Perfect for: Professionals, sharp dressers, and anyone whose job frowns on looking too “wild.”

This style is all about refinement. Think full coverage with controlled edges. The cheeks and neckline are precisely lined, the mustache is clean and not overpowering, and the length is short to medium. It’s a beard that says, “I know how to manage details,” without shouting for attention.

Pro tip: Keep it symmetrical, tight, and regularly trimmed every 1–2 weeks. It pairs effortlessly with a classic fade or a taper haircut for maximum polish.

2. The Fade-In Beard

Perfect for: Men who want seamless flow between their haircut and facial hair.

This style blends the sideburns of your haircut directly into your beard, with a gradual fade from skin to full facial hair. It’s precise, modern, and ideal for showing off jawline structure. It works best with shorter beards and adds serious depth to any look.

Whether you are hitting a rooftop bar or heading into a creative meeting, the fade-in beard offers that put together without trying too hard vibe. It's also one of the most requested styles for a beard trim in Manhattan, where versatility and edge go hand in hand.

3. The 3-Day Stubble

Perfect for: Guys who like the rugged look but want low maintenance.

This one walks the fine line between clean-shaven and full beard. It’s short, simple, and—when done right—looks effortlessly masculine. But don’t be fooled by the “casual” label. Even stubble requires shaping. The neckline and cheeks still need a precise line-up, and uneven patches should be gently faded in for a natural finish.

Bonus: This style suits almost every face shape and is a great option if your beard is still filling in or you are between styles.

4. The Beardstache

Perfect for: Bold personalities and guys who want a unique signature look.

A cross between a full mustache and a short-to-medium beard, the beardstache is making waves for its contrast and character. The mustache takes center stage—thicker, more pronounced—while the rest of the beard is trimmed down and faded out. It’s an intentional imbalance that works best on strong jawlines and adds a rugged, vintage flair to your appearance.

Caution: This isn’t a DIY look. A solid beardstache demands skilled trimming and a careful fade between the two lengths. When done right, it’s unforgettable—in the best way.

5. The Sculpted Short Beard

Perfect for: Minimalists who still want structure and style.

If you are not into long beards but want more than stubble, this is your sweet spot. Trimmed close to the face with well-defined edges, the sculpted short beard is neat, balanced, and incredibly adaptable. It highlights bone structure and offers a clean canvas for pairing with sharp hairstyles like undercuts or skin fades.

Keep in mind: Maintenance is key. Weekly trims and occasional line-ups keep it looking intentional, not lazy.

Final Thoughts

A beard isn’t just facial hair—it’s an extension of your personal style. And with the right trim, it becomes a defining feature. These five styles offer a starting point, whether you are dialing things back, going bold, or finding a signature look that speaks without saying a word.

But remember, a great beard doesn’t happen by accident—it’s sculpted with skill. That’s why having a trusted barber who understands symmetry, face shapes, and detail work is a must.

And if you are looking for that level of craftsmanship, you’ll find it at PHD Barbers in Manhattan’s East Village. Known for precision beard work, custom cuts, and that luxurious-yet-laidback vibe, they are the go-to for men who take their grooming seriously.

Time to elevate your look? Book your appointment today and step out with a beard that does the talking.