Some beard styles. World Beard and Moustache Championships Exhibit Quirky Beard Styles

Year after year, the eccentric entrants of the World Beard and Moustache Championships wow us with their creatively coiffed facial hair. Now, the quirky hairstyles are back—and bolder than ever—as this year's competition is in full swing. Beard styles 2016.

Each one-of-a-kind ‘do simultaneously showcases the individual's unique style and the impressive extent of his hairstyling abilities. Many of the mesmerizing coiffures are abstract in design, composed of concentric circles, swirling shapes, and swooping lines. These dramatic looks emphasize length and focus on sculpting skills, and are often seemingly inspired by a steampunk aesthetic. Contrarily, some contestants took a theatrical approach to the competition, as they dramatically styled their facial hair to complement a range of clever costumes. Characters portrayed include a mustachioed music conductor, a bewhiskered gondolier, an exaggerated Elvis, and even a brooding, beard-covered werewolf.

This year's hairy hopefuls were documented by talented photographer Greg Anderson. Specializing in portraiture, Anderson captures the quirky characteristics of each contestant as he is expertly able to showcase his hair in the best light—literally. Fortunately, Anderson seems to enjoys the competition as much as we do. “This is my 4th year shooting this project,” he tells us, “and it just seems to keep getting better.”

Different men's facial hair styles

To keep track of this year's winners, be sure to check the World Beard and Moustache Championships website.

This year's World Beard and Moustache Championships continues to capture the quirky side of facial hair.

My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by Greg Anderson.

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