When did sideburns go out of style? It’s a question that might make you wonder about the odd history of male facial hair trends. Over the decades, sideburns have been seen as everything from classy to downright ridiculous – but the trendiest styles come and go quickly in the world of fashion. So, to understand when the fad of sideburns ended, we need to take a journey back through time to explore the history of facial hair trends in men.
Facial hair trends have been around for centuries, from the neatly trimmed mustaches of 18th-century aristocrats to the bushy beards of the 1960s. But few styles have been as contentious as the sideburns, named after an eccentric Union general with particularly long side whiskers. The popularity of sideburns has waxed and waned over the years, with brief revivals in the 70s and 90s, but the latest trends in men’s fashion steer clear of this once-popular look. However, just like the resurgence of the mullet in recent years, we may see a comeback of sideburns in fashion in the near future.
So if you’re wondering why sideburns have gone out of style and whether they’ll make a return anytime soon, then keep reading. In this article, we’ll explore the history of sideburns, and what caused them to be pushed aside for the more popular beard and mustache styles of today. We’ll also take a look at some of the most memorable and outrageous sideburn-wearing celebrities throughout history and see if we can predict if they’ll once again be sporting this trend anytime soon.
The History of Sideburns
Sideburns, commonly referred to as the patch of hair that runs down the side of one’s face, has a fascinating history dating back to the 19th century. Here’s a brief overview of how sideburns have evolved throughout history:
- The Early 19th Century: The term “sideburns” was first coined in the 1800s in honor of General Burnside, a Union General during the American Civil War. He sported a signature look with facial hair that connected from his mustache to his beard, and his style became popular among soldiers and civilians alike.
- The Mid 19th Century: During the mid-1800s, sideburns became a symbol of masculinity and power among men. They were often worn along with a full beard and were deemed as a fashionable way to display one’s social status.
- The Late 19th Century: As the 1800s came to a close, sideburns began to fall out of favor as society’s fashion trends shifted towards a cleaner look. This was due in part to the increasing popularity of the clean-shaven look, thanks to the invention of safety razors.
While sideburns may have gone out of fashion for a period of time, they’ve seen a resurgence in recent years thanks to popular culture and current fashion trends. Today, we see many celebrities and men on the street sporting sideburns once again. It’s clear that sideburns are a timeless trend that have been around for centuries and will continue to come in and out of style.
Famous Figures Who Sported Sideburns
Sideburns have been a fashion statement since the time of ancient Greek and Roman empires. Many famous figures throughout history have sported this iconic look, making them a symbol of masculinity and style. Here’s a look at some of the most prominent personalities who made the sideburns a fashion statement.
- Elvis Presley – One of the most popular singers of all time, Elvis Presley, was known for his signature look, including his full, bushy sideburns. He wore them long and thick, which complemented his black hair and chiseled jawline.
- Martin Luther King Jr. – Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. had a distinctive look that included his short, thick sideburns. He often wore them with a neatly trimmed mustache, giving him a distinguished and sophisticated appearance.
- Wolverine – Although Wolverine is a fictional character, he is known for his iconic sideburns that have become an integral part of his overall look. In the comics and movies, his sideburns are long and pointed, making him look more aggressive and ferocious.
Aside from these famous personalities, sideburns have also been popular among politicians, actors, musicians, and sports stars throughout history. In fact, sideburns have been so influential in popular culture that they were even named after one of the most famous Union generals of the Civil War, Ambrose Burnside, who had bushy sideburns that connected to his mustache. Thus, the term ‘sideburns’ was born.
If you’re curious to learn more about the history of sideburns, expert bloggers suggest diving deeper into the topic to understand how this iconic look has evolved over time. It’s fascinating to see how a simple design element like sideburns can make such a tremendous impact on fashion and culture for centuries.
Trends in Facial Hair Fashion Throughout History
From the clean-shaven look of ancient Egyptians to the bushy beards and handlebar mustaches of the Wild West, facial hair fashion has constantly evolved throughout history. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most prominent trends in facial hair fashion throughout history.
Evolution of Facial Hair Fashion
- Ancient Times – Men in ancient Egypt shaved their entire bodies, including their facial hair. However, in ancient Greece, a full beard was considered a symbol of wisdom and masculinity.
- Middle Ages – During the Middle Ages, facial hair was often related to social status, and Kings, noblemen, and knights commonly sported beards and mustaches.
- The Renaissance – In the 1500s, the clean-shaven look became popular in Europe and was seen as a way to showcase the beauty of the human face. However, mustaches remained an important part of European facial hair fashion.
When did Sideburns Go Out of Style?
Sideburns have been a popular facial hair trend throughout history, but they lost their popularity in the mid-20th century. This was mostly due to their association with Elvis Presley and the “greaser” subculture, which was seen as rebellious and controversial at the time.
However, sideburns have made a comeback in recent years, and many celebrities and trendsetters have sported different styles and lengths of sideburns.
Facial Hair Fashion Today
Today, facial hair fashion is more diverse and inclusive than ever before. From beards and mustaches to goatees and soul patches, men are free to express their personalities and individuality through their facial hair fashion choices.
| Facial Hair Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Beard | A beard that covers the entire chin, cheeks, and neck. |
| Stubble | Short, rough facial hair growth with a length of up to 3 mm. |
| Soul Patch | A small patch of hair just below the bottom lip. |
| Goatee | A beard that grows on the chin and mustache area, without any hair on the cheeks. Can be pointy or rounded. |
Facial hair fashion continues to evolve and change, but one thing remains constant – it gives men the opportunity to express themselves and showcase their personalities in a unique and creative way.
The Rise of Beards and Mustaches in Modern Times
As sideburns fell out of fashion, beards and mustaches began to rise in popularity. In recent years, the trend of growing facial hair has become more prevalent than ever, with men of all ages sporting various styles of beards and mustaches.
- The Hipster Beard: This style of beard is characterized by its long length, often reaching down to the chest, and typically paired with thick-rimmed glasses and a flannel shirt. It became popular in the early 2010s and remains a popular choice for men who want to make a statement with their facial hair.
- The Handlebar Mustache: This style of mustache is characterized by its long, curled ends and has been popular throughout history. It experienced a resurgence in the mid-2010s and remains a trendy choice for men who want to add a vintage touch to their look.
- The Goatee: This style of facial hair is characterized by its hair on the chin and lower lip, leaving the cheeks smooth. It has been a popular choice for men since the 90s and remains a classic look for those not wanting a full beard.
One of the driving forces behind the rise of beards and mustaches in modern times is the desire to break away from traditional stereotypes of masculinity. Growing facial hair is seen as a way for men to express themselves and their individuality, as well as challenge societal norms and expectations.
In addition, the advent of social media has played a significant role in the trend of growing facial hair. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have allowed men to showcase their facial hair styles and connect with others who share their interests and passions.
| Advantages of Growing Facial Hair | Disadvantages of Growing Facial Hair |
|---|---|
| Can add a sense of masculinity and maturity | Requires regular maintenance and grooming |
| Can help keep the face warm in colder climates | Can be itchy and uncomfortable in hot weather |
| Can be seen as a sign of confidence and self-assuredness | May not be accepted in all professional settings |
Overall, the rise of beards and mustaches in modern times can be seen as a reflection of changing ideas about masculinity and self-expression. Whether you decide to rock the hipster beard or the classic goatee, growing facial hair can be a powerful way to showcase your personality and stand out from the crowd.
Celebrities Who Popularized Beard Styles
Throughout history, celebrities have always been trendsetters when it comes to fashion and style. When it comes to beard styles, some of the most influential celebrities have played a significant role in popularizing this look. Here are the top five celebrities who have contributed to the popularity of beard styles.
- Abraham Lincoln: Often credited with starting the trend of facial hair, Abraham Lincoln was the first U.S. president to sport a beard. His decision to grow a beard was influenced by an 11-year-old girl who suggested he would look better with one. His beard quickly became a symbol of his wisdom and strength.
- Che Guevara: Known for his revolutionary views and his iconic photograph, Che Guevara is often portrayed with a bushy beard. His rugged look became a popular symbol of rebellion and counterculture in the 1960s and 1970s.
- Johnny Depp: The Hollywood actor is well-known for his love of the bohemian style, and his signature look often includes a neatly trimmed beard and mustache. He has been credited with making beards fashionable and acceptable in mainstream culture.
- David Beckham: The retired soccer player is a fashion icon, and his perfectly groomed beard has made him a style icon as well. His beard has inspired many men to opt for a more well-groomed and polished look.
- Jason Momoa: The “Aquaman” star is known for his wild and rugged look, which includes a voluminous beard and long hair. He has become a major influence on the resurgence of the lumberjack-style beard, which has become popular in recent years.
Celebrities have always been trendsetters, and their influence on the popularity of beard styles can’t be understated. Whether it’s Lincoln’s legendary beard or Momoa’s wild look, we have these celebrities to thank for making beards fashionable and popular once again.
The Return of the Sideburn: Recent Facial Hair Trends
Sideburns, a once popular facial hair style, fell out of fashion in the 1980s and 1990s due to their association with outdated and tacky styles. However, in recent years, sideburns have made a significant comeback in the world of men’s grooming.
- Celebrity Inspiration: One major factor in the resurgence of sideburns is the influence of celebrities. Many A-listers, including Brad Pitt and Chris Hemsworth, have been spotted sporting longer, thicker sideburns. This has encouraged men to experiment with the style themselves.
- Versatile Style Options: Sideburns are versatile and can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. Men can choose to grow long and thick sideburns that run down to their jawline or keep them shorter and more tapered. This makes sideburns a great option for both casual and formal occasions.
- Easy to Maintain: Compared to other facial hair styles, sideburns are relatively easy to maintain. Trimming them regularly can help to keep them in shape and prevent them from looking unkempt. Additionally, sideburns are a great styling option for men with patchy beards or who are unable to grow a full beard.
Another factor contributing to the comeback of sideburns is the rise of vintage and retro styles. Many men are looking back to the style icons of the 1950s and 1960s, such as Elvis Presley and James Dean, for inspiration. Sideburns were a staple of the rockabilly and greaser looks of that era, and have been adopted by modern men looking to add a vintage touch to their appearance.
Sideburns can also be paired with other popular facial hair styles, such as the mustache or goatee, to create a unique and personalized look. The following table highlights some popular sideburn styles and their names.
| Sideburn Style | Name |
|---|---|
| Short and Tapered | Classic |
| Long and Thick | Mountain Man |
| Connected to Mustache | Chin Curtain |
| Extended to Jawline | Ducktail |
Whether you’re looking for a classic style or a modern twist, sideburns are a versatile and stylish option for men of all ages. With the right grooming and care, sideburns can add a touch of personality and sophistication to any outfit.
The Influence of Grooming and Men’s Fashion on Sideburn Trends
Sideburns, a style element that was once popular among men, have gone through a variety of fashion cycles. While it’s hard to pinpoint an exact time when sideburns went out of style, there are a few key trends that have contributed to their decline over the years.
- Clean-Cut Grooming: As men have become more interested in a clean-cut, well-groomed appearance, sideburns have lost their appeal. In the past, sideburns were often part of a more rugged, natural look that didn’t place as much emphasis on grooming. Today, however, many men opt for shaves, clean haircuts, and other grooming practices that don’t include sideburns.
- Shorter Hair Styles: Over the years, men’s hairstyles have become shorter and more streamlined. As a result, sideburns, which traditionally grow alongside longer hair, have lost some of their appeal. Shorter haircuts generally don’t require sideburns and can look more polished without them.
- Changing Fashion: Men’s fashion has gone through a lot of changes over the years, and with each new trend, sideburns have adapted or faded away. For example, in the 70s, sideburns were a common style element, but in the 90s, grunge fashion brought a more unkempt look with less emphasis on grooming. With each new shift in fashion, sideburns have either adapted or become less prominent.
While the decline of sideburns may be less about a specific timeframe and more about changing trends, one thing is clear: they’re not as popular as they once were. However, for those who still love the look, sideburns can be a fun and distinctive style statement that adds character to any overall look.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can add character to a look | May not fit with current fashion trends |
| Can be a fun and creative style element | May be too bold for some people |
| Offers a unique way to express personal style | May require extra grooming or upkeep to maintain |
No matter how you look at it, sideburns are a style element that have gone through a lot of changes over the years. Whether they’re in fashion or out, however, they can still be a fun and distinctive way to express yourself and add some character to your overall look.
FAQs: When Did Sideburns Go Out of Style?
Q: When did sideburns start becoming popular?
A: Sideburns became popular in the 19th century and were named after American Civil War General Ambrose Burnside.
Q: When did sideburns start going out of style?
A: Sideburns started going out of style in the early 20th century, especially after World War I.
Q: Did any famous people wear sideburns in the past?
A: Yes, there were many famous people who wore sideburns, including Elvis Presley, Abraham Lincoln, and Wolverine.
Q: When did sideburns make a comeback?
A: The 1960s saw a resurgence in sideburn popularity, thanks in part to musicians like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.
Q: Why did sideburns go out of style?
A: Sideburns fell out of favor primarily due to changing fashion trends and evolving social norms.
Q: Are sideburns currently in style?
A: While sideburns may not be as popular as they once were, they are still a common facial hair style today.
Q: Can anyone pull off sideburns?
A: Whether or not sideburns are a good look for someone ultimately depends on their individual features and personal style.
When Did Sideburns Go Out of Style: A Brief History
Now you know the answer to the question “when did sideburns go out of style?” It’s interesting to see how a facial hair trend can rise and fall from popularity over time. While sideburns may not be as prevalent today, it’s important to remember that fashion trends are always changing. Thanks for reading and be sure to check back for more interesting articles in the future!