Sideburns

What it is

Sideburns are strips of facial hair that grow on the sides of the face. They start at the hairline and run downwards, staying parallel to the ears or extending past them. This style is distinct from a full beard because the chin remains clean-shaven. If the hair connects under the chin, it becomes a different style entirely. The term itself comes from a reversal of the name Burnsides. It refers to the specific look worn by General Ambrose Burnside, who kept his chin bare while sporting thick hair on his cheeks connected to a moustache.

History and origin

Depictions of Roman statues and masks from the first century show men with this facial hair. In the sixteenth century, indigenous men in Mexico and Colombia wore long braided versions, which colonial authorities later banned. During the nineteenth century, the style became extravagant in Europe and South America, often appearing on independence heroes. The trend faded in the early twentieth century due to practical needs like gas mask seals in World War I. A resurgence occurred in the mid-1950s through film and music, cementing its place in modern fashion.

What it means

The meaning of sideburns has changed significantly over time. In the nineteenth century, they were a standard part of male grooming. By the mid-twentieth century, they signaled rebellion and post-pubescent manliness among greasers and rockers. In the 1960s and 1970s, they became associated with counterculture movements, including mods and hippies. Specific variations also served as symbols within gay club scenes in cities like San Francisco. Today, they can suggest Victorian stuffiness, roughness, or simply a retro fashion choice.

Styling and care

Men grow this hair from the temple area down towards the jaw. It can be worn alone or combined with a moustache. When connected to a moustache with a clean chin, it is called friendly mutton chops. If the hair extends below the jawline, it is historically referred to as side whiskers. Grooming involves trimming the edges to maintain a sharp line against the cheek. The length varies from short and neat to long and dramatic, depending on the desired aesthetic effect.

In culture

Film and music have played major roles in popularising this look. Marlon Brando wore them in The Wild One, linking the style to rebellious youth. Elvis Presley further spurred their popularity among rockers. In the 1970s, they appeared across various social groups. Notable modern figures include musicians like Neil Young and politicians like Emmanuel Macron. The style remains a flexible element of personal expression, appearing in art, banknotes, and contemporary media without losing its cultural resonance.

Questions people ask about Sideburns

Good reading and sources

• Sideburns a la Presley Aren't Ivy; Dern of Penn Quits Track Rather Than Alter Appearance Explanation of Coach Father a Football Player (PublThe New York Times, Article

• Sideburns on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data