'Signal' behind Prince William's beard as expert addresses 'impact' of his new look

Prince William’s beard shows the heir to the throne is breaking from the “established norm”, according to a PR expert.

In recent weeks, the Prince of Wales has been spotted with a beard, looking worlds away from his usual clean-shaven appearance.

Following official appearances with the beard, there is speculation over how long the facial hair will stay and whether it will trigger a beard bonanza.

Express.co.uk spoke to Chorus Communication’s Jenny Holden about what the new look means for Prince William and its potential wider impact.

Jenny said that the decision to grow a beard was a signal of something more than just not shaving. Instead, it forms part of a shift in image whilst also following current trends.

Jenny explained: “In a move that has captivated royal watchers and fashion enthusiasts, Prince William has recently unveiled a new, more rugged appearance with a carefully groomed beard.

"However, his recent decision to sport a beard marks a departure from this established norm, signaling a broader shift in both his personal and public image.

"Beards have experienced a resurgence in men's fashion for more than five years now, evolving from a trend into a staple of modern style.

“From the rugged charm of a well-groomed stubble to the more defined and sophisticated beard seen on footballers and actors, this facial hair renaissance has redefined masculinity.”

Jenny added that the decision to grow a beard could have long as well as short-term consequences.

She said: "As beards continue to hold their place in men’s style, the Prince’s choice as a royal - and a royal style influencer for some - secures this trend well into the future as a sophisticated option in men's grooming."

Also with an eye on the future are those intrigued about whether Prince William will be able to reconcile with his younger brother Prince Harry. According to one royal expert, a reunion will only happen on one condition.

Richard Eden told the Daily Mail’s Palace Confidential: “I’ve been speaking to people about…the chances of a reconciliation between the brothers, but everyone really has made the same points that it won’t happen until Harry and Meghan really apologise for everything they have said."

Mr Eden added: “They need to apologise, at least privately, but also how can there be that reconciliation when William and Catherine just don’t know what will later appear in a TV programme or in a book? Genuinely, once you’ve lost that trust you’ve kind of lost it forever.”

However, there are shoots of hope that the pair might be able to reconcile sources suggesting that Prince William is willing to do so.

One source told the Express: “Harry is open to reconciling with his brother. He knows it won't be an easy task but it is something that can be brought to the table.

“William is not opposed to a reconciliation with his brother at some point, but things would need to start from scratch, a fresh start type scenario, where things from the past are not to be mentioned.”