Women are sometimes called handsome. Perhaps not as much these days as in the past. And to me, calling a man beautiful is perfectly acceptable. I would take it to mean his whole being, a lovely personality, for example. Which reminds me, I’ve called many men lovely, too, referring to their inner qualities.

You should be allowed to use whichever words feel right for you to express yourself. Especially being a writer. Words are important. The right one is essential. Others don’t have to see something the same way you do. Your husband has no right to correct how you see someone!