The moustache has been a beloved facial feature for centuries, signaling strength and masculinity. In the past few years, however, it’s become a fashion statement—with men proudly sporting their thickly groomed upper lips in many different styles.
Whether you’re just joining the growing ranks of proud ‘stache wearers or are looking to change up your current look, this guide will provide you with 14 distinct moustache style ideas that range in shape and size—all along with plenty of photo examples as well as their individual names! So, grab your razor (or wax if necessary) and check out these unique possibilities for bringing a classic ‘tash into modern times!
1. Chevron Moustache
The Chevron moustache is characterized by a sharp, downward-pointing moustache that covers the entirety of the upper lip. It has a strong, bold shape and makes a definite statement. Many people find this moustache to give them a strong and authoritative look. Think of Freddie Mercury and Tom Selleck!
READ MORE: The Chevron Moustache: The Ultimate Style Guide
2. Dali Moustache
Named for the eccentric Spanish painter Salvador Dali, the Dali mustache is notable for its extended and curved ends that draw attention away from the rest of the face. It is long, wispy, and often waxed to ensure that the mustache remains in a kooky shape. It’s a great way to stand out from the crowd and add a big splash of personality to any look.
3. Horseshoe Moustache
This long and sometimes wider moustache style hangs down over the sides of the mouth and wraps around the chin. It is usually thicker at the center and more sparse toward the tips. This style is similar to the Chevron but allows more room to grow a broader moustache. Think of Hulk Hogan!
4. English Moustache
This old-fashioned mustache style is generally trimmed closely to the top lip and sometimes shaped with wax or mousse. With a medium width and length, it can be tailored to fit the shape and size of the upper lip. It is the style seen in old-fashioned films and can give a person an air of sophistication. Think of General Sir Nevil Macready!
5. Handlebar Moustache
The handlebar moustache is known for its long, curved ends that point upward. It is often waxed to maintain its shape and balanced with a trimmed moustache to keep the look even. With plenty of width and length, this style takes time and practice to perfect. Think of Wyatt Earp!
READ MORE: Miyamoto Musashi, the Samurai: The Quintessential Warrior
6. Petit Handlebar Moustache
The petit handlebar is a mini version of the handlebar mustache but has shorter and less dramatic ends. It’s a great way to get the fashionable look of the handlebar mustache without the extra width and length. This style is neat and easy to maintain, making it a great option for anyone who wants to rock the handlebar. Think of Agatha Christie’s fictional character Hercule Poirot!
7. Painter’s Brush Moustache
The painter’s brush is a somewhat thin moustache style that is longer in the center than the sides. It is tapered at the ends to give it a smooth and neat look. It is a good option for anyone who wants a look that is neither tough nor too fancy. This of the character Ron Swansons from the TV show “Parks and Recreation”.
8. Toothbrush Moustache
Comedy legend Charlie Chaplin popularized the toothbrush moustache. This style features a strip of facial hair across the top lip that’s perfectly groomed and even in length. It’s a great way to add a bit of character and fun to any look.
9. Lampshade Moustache
The lampshade mustache is a thin, tapered mustache that wraps around the corners of the mouth. This style is low-maintenance and often starts thin before thickening at the ends. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants a subtle and sophisticated look. Think of the character Arthur Shelby from the “Peaky Blinders” series!
10. Pencil Moustache
Pencil moustaches are thin lines of facial hair that are kept neatly trimmed. It’s an easy style to maintain and can look quite debonair, depending on how it is groomed. This style gives the wearer a neat and polished look without having to worry about bold or dramatic facial hair. Think of the character Gomez Addams from the Addam’s Family!
11. Pyramidal Moustaches
Pyramidal mustaches feature a triangle shape of facial hair that starts thin and widens at the bottom. They are usually long and often waxed to hold their shape. They can give the wearer a unique and quirky look and are sure to turn a few heads. Think of General Charles de Gaulle!
12. Fu Manchu Moustache
The Fu Manchu is a thin moustache style featuring long, thin ends that point downward and wrap around the corners of the mouth. This style is often waxed or curled to define and sharpen the ends. It can give the wearer an air of mystery and can be customized to fit each person’s facial structure. Think of the character played by Christopher Lee in the 1965’s “The Face of Fu Manchu”!
13. Imperial Moustache
The imperial moustache is often large and is usually waxed into a sharp point with the tips pointing outwards. This style is often shaped in a triangular shape and gives the wearer a distinguished and regal look. Think of Austro-Hungarian Archduke Franz Ferdinand!
14. Walrus Moustache
The walrus is a thick, broad moustache style covering the entire upper lip. It is usually full, bushy, and untrimmed and gives the wearer a strong and rugged look. It’s a great way to make a bold, statement without having to worry about neatness. Think of Friedrich Nietzsche!
Conclusion
So, how do you decide which style of mustache is right for you? Consider your facial features and lifestyle when choosing a style. You also need to consider the type of facial hair you have and the time you are willing to put into maintenance.
If you have thick, full facial hair, you can try a bolder style, such as the handlebar or walrus. If you have thinner facial hair and want something easy to manage, the pencil or imperial moustache may be a better option. Whatever style you choose, make sure it fits your personality and lifestyle.
Ask your barber for advice if you need help selecting which moustache is best for you. Their expertise can help you find a style that will suit your look and face shape. Once you have found the perfect style, don’t forget to groom and maintain it regularly. You’ll want to make sure that your moustache looks its best!
