Types of Mustaches: 20 Stylish Options to Elevate Your Facial Hair Game (2024)

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When it comes to the subject of mustaches, you’ve got plenty of options to express your personal style.

From classic natural looks like the Chevron and Walrus to thin styles like the Pencil and Fu Manchu, there’s something for everyone. Handlebar enthusiasts can choose between the traditional Handlebar, English, or even the dramatic Dalí. Don’t forget hybrid options like the Horseshoe or Beardstache for a unique twist.

Choosing the right mustache depends on your face shape, features, and personal preference. Whether you’re aiming for a distinguished look or a bold statement, there’s a mustache style that’ll suit you perfectly.

Curious about which style might work best for you?

Natural Mustache Styles

Natural mustache styles offer a range of options for men who prefer a more effortless look. The Chevron, Lampshade, Walrus, Painter’s Brush, and Toothbrush are popular choices that require minimal styling while still making a statement.

Chevron

You can’t go wrong with the classic Chevron mustache. This stylish option features an inverted V shape that follows your upper lip line. It’s a timeless choice to elevate your facial hair game, requiring minimal grooming for maximum impact.

Lampshade

You’ll love the lampshade mustache‘s trapezoid shape, often called a cop ‘stache. It’s gained popularity for its versatility. Variations range from subtle to bold. Styling’s a breeze: trim regularly and use mustache wax for definition. This classic style’s history dates back decades.

Walrus

You’ll command attention with a walrus mustache. This bold style engulfs your upper lip and may even cover the bottom. Popularized by historical figures, it’s making a comeback. Use mustache wax and a comb to keep it tamed and stylish.

Painter’s Brush

If you’re after a fuller look than the Walrus, try the Painter’s Brush. This thick, straight mustache covers your entire upper lip. It’s like a beefier Chevron, offering a bold statement without overpowering your facial features. Perfect for the confident gentleman.

Toothbrush

You’ve seen it before—the toothbrush mustache. It’s thin, shaved on both sides, and spans your nose’s width. This controversial style can enhance your smile aesthetics, but be cautious:

1. Trim precisely for a clean look
2. Consider your face shape carefully
3. Pair with impeccable dental hygiene

Thin Mustache Styles

If you’re looking for a more subtle facial hair style, thin mustaches offer a range of options to suit your preferences. From the classic Pencil to the distinctive Fu Manchu, these styles can add a touch of sophistication or intrigue to your appearance.

Pencil

If you’re after a classic style with a touch of sophistication, the pencil mustache is your go-to. This thin, precisely trimmed look sits elegantly above your upper lip. It’s a versatile choice that can be styled for both retro and modern interpretations.

Parted Pencil

You’ll love the parted pencil mustache for its sleek, sophisticated look. This thin style features a hair width gap at the philtrum, creating angled chevrons. It’s perfect for square, heart, oval, round, and diamond faces. Daily grooming and precise shaving techniques are essential.

Fu Manchu

If you’re feeling daring, the Fu Manchu might be your next move. This villainous style features long, drooping whiskers that grow past your chin. It’s a bold choice that works well with triangle faces and can be styled in various ways.

Zappa

Switching gears from the Fu Manchu, let’s explore the Zappa mustache. This unique style combines a shortened horseshoe with a soul patch, creating a bold statement. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Thick, downward-growing mustache
2. Connects to a small soul patch
3. Requires regular trimming for maintenance

Imperial

You’ll turn heads with the imperial mustache, a style that incorporates upper cheek hair. Its handles curve upward without pointed ends, giving you a regal look. Popularized by European royalty, this ‘stache requires regular grooming to maintain its distinctive shape.

Handlebar Mustache Styles

Handlebar mustache styles offer a range of bold and distinctive options for your facial hair. From the classic Handlebar to the more elaborate Hungarian and Dalí variations, these styles require dedication and careful grooming to achieve their iconic curved or upward-pointing ends.

Handlebar

Moving from thin styles, let’s delve into the iconic handlebar mustache. This bold look features thick hair with upward-curling ends. For handlebar inspiration, cultivate it, then use wax to mold those distinctive curves. It’s a statement piece that commands attention.

Petite Handlebar

If you’re looking for a more subtle handlebar, try the petite version. This style variation keeps the iconic curl but doesn’t extend past your mouth corners. It’s perfect for those who want a dapper look without overwhelming their face shape.

English

You’ll love the English mustache if you’re after a refined look. Like its petite cousin, it’s similar to the handlebar but with a twist. Use mustache wax to style the ends horizontally, creating sharp points for a distinguished appearance.

Hungarian

You’ll turn heads with the Hungarian mustache, a bold statement in facial hair. This large, swooping handlebar style sits lower on your cheeks, demanding attention. Regular grooming and waxing are essential to maintain its distinctive shape and impressive volume.

Dalí

You’ll turn heads with the iconic Dalí mustache, inspired by surrealist Salvador Dalí. This pencil-thin style features long, thin handles styled straight up, creating a look as eye-catching as a renaissance painting. It’s surrealism for your face, transforming you into living artwork.

Hybrid Mustache Styles

Hybrid mustache styles offer a unique twist on traditional facial hair by combining different elements. The horseshoe and beardstache are two popular options that’ll give you a distinctive look, blending the best of mustaches and beards.

Horseshoe

The horseshoe mustache is a bold statement piece that’s not for the faint of heart. This hybrid style combines a thick, full mustache with vertical strips of cheek hair, creating a distinctive U-shape. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to add length to your round or square face. To rock this look, you’ll need:

1. Patience – growing a horseshoe takes time
2. Precision – regular trimming is paramount
3. Products – invest in quality mustache wax

Grooming your horseshoe mustache requires dedication, but the payoff is worth it. You’ll turn heads and exude confidence with this powerful facial hair style. Remember, the key to a great horseshoe is maintaining clean lines and even growth. Embrace your inner cowboy and let that horseshoe shine!

Beardstache

You’ve heard of the beard, you’ve mastered the mustache, but have you met their lovechild? Enter the beardstache, a fusion style that’s taking the grooming world by storm.

This trendy look combines a full, robust mustache with light stubble on the rest of your face. It’s the perfect balance between rugged and refined, offering you the best of both worlds.

To rock this style, grow out your mustache while keeping your beard trimmed to a short stubble. Use quality grooming products to maintain the contrast between your ‘stache and stubble.

The beardstache is versatile, suiting various face shapes and giving you that effortlessly cool vibe.

Ready to liberate your facial hair?

Choosing a Mustache Style

When choosing a mustache style, consider your face shape, facial features, and key measurements to find the most flattering option. Take into account whether you have an oval, square, round, or other face shape, as well as the proportions of your lips and jawline, to select a mustache that complements your unique features.

Face Shape

Your face shape plays a significant role in selecting the ideal mustache style.

Oval faces can accommodate most styles, while square faces complement thick, prominent mustaches. For oblong faces, consider full, dense styles to harmonize your proportions. Round faces benefit from angular mustaches with distinct edges. For diamond-shaped faces, try narrow, bushy styles to balance your cheekbones.

Facial Features

Now that you’ve identified your face shape, consider your facial features. Your jawline’s definition, lip shape, and skin tone all play essential roles in choosing the perfect mustache.

A strong jawline can handle bold styles, while softer features might benefit from more refined options. Your lip shape influences how the mustache sits, and your skin tone affects the overall look.

Don’t forget to factor in your personal style – your mustache should complement your unique vibe.

Measurements

After considering your facial features, it’s time to get precise with measurements. Grab a tape measure or calipers to determine your face shape accurately.

Measure the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, as well as the length from hairline to chin. Use these numbers in a face shape calculator for definitive results.

Your measurements will guide you to mustache styles that complement your unique proportions, helping you achieve that perfect balance of power and style.

Growing a Mustache

Growing a mustache requires patience and proper care. You’ll need to shampoo and trim regularly, follow specific steps for styles like the Dallas mustache, guarantee you have wiry edges for a handlebar, and pair a pencil-thin mustache with a classy wardrobe for the full effect.

Shampoo and Trim

Once you’ve chosen your mustache style, it’s time to nurture it. Shampoo your facial hair regularly to keep it clean and soft. Invest in quality products designed for facial hair. Trim carefully, using proper technique to maintain shape. Remember, a well-groomed ‘stache is your ticket to turning heads and boosting confidence.

Dallas Mustache Steps

Ready to rock the Dallas mustache? After washing and trimming, follow these steps: let it grow for 4-6 weeks, shape with scissors, use a trimmer for clean lines, apply wax for hold, and comb it daily. This bold style demands attention, so wear it with confidence and watch heads turn.

Handlebar Requirements

To rock a handlebar mustache, you’ll need:

1. Patience: It takes time to grow the required length.
2. Handlebar wax: Essential for shaping those iconic curls.
3. A steady hand: Precision is key when styling handlebar thickness.
4. Dedication: Daily handlebar grooming is a must to maintain its shape.

Embrace the process, and you’ll soon be twirling with confidence.

Pencil-thin Wardrobe

While handlebar mustaches require wiry edges, the pencil-thin style demands a wardrobe to match. Embrace classic style with vintage vibes for a sophisticated look. Think crisp suits, fitted shirts, and polished shoes. This thin fashion can give you a dapper or even villainous appearance, depending on your ensemble choices.

Maintaining a Mustache

Maintaining your mustache is essential for a refined appearance, and each style necessitates specific care. From regular upkeep for a Clark Gable to complementing a Zappa with stubble, you’ll need to adapt your grooming routine to your desired style.

Daily Upkeep

Now that you’ve grown your mustache, daily upkeep is essential. Establish a maintenance routine using grooming products like wax and oil. Brush and style your ‘stache daily, paying attention to hair growth patterns. Regular trimming keeps your look neat and confident.

Stubble Complements

While maintaining your mustache daily, don’t forget about complementary stubble. Experiment with different stubble lengths, shapes, and textures to enhance your ‘stache. Keep your stubble well-groomed, adjusting thickness to balance your facial features. It’s all about finding your perfect stubble-mustache combo.

Pyramid Suits Most

While stubble complements some styles, the pyramid mustache suits most face shapes. This versatile style requires regular grooming and maintenance. To rock this look:

• Shape it carefully for a bold statement
• Trim daily for a crisp appearance
• Experiment with length for your unique style
• Embrace the power of facial hair

Military Jawline

While the pyramid suits most, the military mustache demands a well-defined jawline. It’s a nod to military history and strategy. Here’s a quick guide:

Style	Face Shape	Maintenance	Ideal For
Chevron	Square	Moderate	Service Members
Handlebar	Oval	High	Officers
Pencil	Any	Low	Tactical Operations
Full Brush	Rectangle	Moderate	Command Presence

Horseshoe Adds Length

If you’ve got a round or square face, the horseshoe mustache is your ticket to a longer look. It adds depth and balances your features beautifully. This style’s downward curve complements rounder faces, giving you that extra edge you’re after.

Significance of Mustaches

Sporting a mustache is more than just a fashion choice; it’s a statement of commitment and self-expression that commands respect. Your mustache can be a powerful tool for raising awareness, as seen in movements like Movember, and it can serve as a stepping stone to growing a full beard if you’re looking to alter your facial hair style.

Respect

You’ve mastered your mustache maintenance, now it’s time to reap the rewards. A well-groomed ‘stache commands respect, reflecting your personality and confidence. Throughout history, mustaches have held cultural significance:

• Symbol of masculinity and power
• Indicator of social status
• Expression of individuality and rebellion

Commitment

Growing a mustache isn’t just about respect; it’s a commitment. You’ll need dedication for growth, daily grooming, and styling. Here’s what you’re in for:

Commitment	Reward
Daily care	Unique look
Styling time	Confidence boost
Patience	Personal expression

Revival

You’ll be thrilled to know that mustaches are experiencing a renaissance**. They’ve made a stylish comeback, influencing fashion trends and grooming innovation. The cultural impact is undeniable:

• Retro styles revived
• Celebrity endorsements
• Grooming products boom

Embrace this historical resurgence and make your mark!

Movember

You’ve likely heard of Movember, the annual mustache-growing event. It’s more than just facial hair fun; it’s a powerful movement raising awareness for men’s health issues. Your ‘stache becomes a symbol of solidarity and a conversation starter about important topics.

Beard Transition

You’ve mastered the mustache, now ready for a full beard? Shifting requires patience and proper beard care. As you grow, maintain your mustache while focusing on beard growth. Embrace the journey, experimenting with beard trimming and styling techniques to find your perfect look.

Mustache Grooming Tips

To keep your mustache looking its best, you’ll need to invest in some essential grooming tools and products. Use beard balm or mustache wax to shape and style your ‘stache, and don’t forget to trim regularly with a quality mustache comb while paying attention to your unique hair growth patterns.

Beard Balm or Wax

You’ll want to invest in beard balm or mustache wax for your ‘stache. These products provide essential hydration and nourishment, keeping your facial hair healthy and manageable. They’re your secret weapons for taming unruly hairs and achieving that perfectly styled look you’re after.

Mustache Comb

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After applying balm or wax, grab your mustache comb. This essential grooming supply helps distribute products evenly and tames unruly hairs. Run it through your ‘stache daily to train hair growth patterns and maintain your chosen style with ease.

Styling Techniques

After combing your mustache, it’s time to master styling techniques. Here are some pro tips to elevate your facial hair game:

• Apply mustache wax for hold
• Twist ends for a defined look
• Use a hairdryer for stubborn hairs
• Experiment with different shapes
• Blend with beard for a cohesive style

Regular Trimming

Once you’ve mastered styling techniques, regular trimming is essential for mustache care. Use quality grooming tools to maintain your chosen style. Trim every few days, adjusting frequency based on growth rate. This maintenance habit keeps your ‘stache looking sharp and controlled.

Hair Growth Patterns

To master your mustache, understand your hair growth patterns. Use grooming techniques suited to your facial hair. Invest in quality mustache combs, beard oil, and utility balm. These tools will help you shape and maintain your ‘stache, keeping it looking sharp and stylish.

Common Mustache Mistakes

You might be tempted to expect a full mustache overnight, but remember that facial hair typically grows only half an inch per month. When trimming your mustache, use proper beard scissors to avoid cutting too much bulk and maintain your desired style.

Unrealistic Expectations

Now that you’re armed with grooming tips, let’s tackle a common pitfall: unrealistic expectations. Growing a mustache isn’t an overnight affair, and patience is key. Your facial hair growth rate is unique, and it’s imperative to understand that:

1. Mustaches typically grow about half an inch per month
2. Face shape compatibility plays a significant role in style selection
3. Your personal style preferences may evolve during the growth process

Don’t get discouraged if your ‘stache doesn’t match your dream look immediately. Time constraints can be frustrating, but remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a magnificent mustache. Embrace the journey, and you’ll find that the wait makes the final result even more rewarding.

Improper Trimming

Just as essential as managing expectations is mastering proper trimming techniques. You might be excited to shape your ‘stache, but rushing can lead to disaster. Remember, facial hair grows about half an inch per month, so patience is key.

Invest in quality beard trimming scissors and a reliable electric trimmer for precision. Start with a longer guard and gradually work your way down to avoid over-trimming. Establish a maintenance schedule based on your growth rate and desired style.

Common pitfalls include uneven trimming and cutting against the grain. To keep your mustache looking sharp, use beard oil and utility balm for hydration and control.

With practice, you’ll perfect your trimming routine and rock your chosen style confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)