For every man, there comes a pivotal moment that defines the way he’ll look for the rest of his life (or at least the next few weeks or months). It’s basically a style scenario, and it’s called the “mustache moment.”
While the decision to “stache” or not to “stache” might look simple, it can get tricky in a hurry. Mustaches can be fickle beasts that are hard to get right, and they don’t always work the way we want. I tried one when I was in the military, and while it fell into the “good but not great” category, I hated constantly having it grow over my upper lip, so I ditched it for a full beard after I did my hitch.
This kind of experience isn’t uncommon, but there are plenty of ways to do it better. Breaking down the stylistic choices is one way, and consulting a pro can be incredibly helpful, so let’s go there.
The beardstache
It might feel weird to go with a combo style right out of the gate, but if you look behind the current trends, it makes total sense. Beards have been making a comeback for a while now, especially big ones, and that rising tide is lifting the beardstache as a trend.
It definitely offers the best of both worlds stylistically, as barber and stylist James Brock, who owns and runs a St. Louis studio and goes by @Drizzy in his IG and online posts, notes.
“One of the most popular requests in the shop lately is the ‘beardstache,'” he explained. “This style combines a fuller mustache with a short, trimmed beard or stubble. It’s versatile, masculine, and ideal for those who want to keep some facial hair without going full beard. It works especially well if you have strong features, as the contrast really defines the jawline and adds character.”
If you like the basic look, though, you can add more than character to the mix. Some men have big beards that support a full mustache, and the combination can make a bold personal statement that represents a win-win in both categories.
Three trending styles: The Chevron, Lampshade, and Walrus
While some mustaches do periodically go out of style, Drizzy indicates that these three have serious staying power.
“There’s something timeless about the Chevron,” he summarized. “[It’s] full, masculine, and makes a statement without being too high maintenance. This style complements most face shapes and works great for clients who want a solid mustache that feels classic but still modern. Keep it shaped and trimmed just above the lip line, and you’re good to go.”
For those who want to go beyond basic without getting too crazy or unconventional, the Lampshade and the Walrus represent solid options.
“[The lampshade is] precise and sharp, and it’s often associated with military grooming,” Drizzy said. “It’s boxy, clean, and pairs well with clean-shaven cheeks.”
Not everyone can sport an old-fashioned Walrus or one of the many variations it has inspired, but if you can get it right, Drizzy described it as “the boldest of the bunch.”
“This heavy, over-the-lip mustache gives a rugged, vintage look,” he said. “It takes commitment and care, but it’s a powerful style statement.”
Whatever style you choose, consider a consultation with your barber as part of the drill if you want to get it right.
“Each of these can be tailored to suit your features,” Drizzy said. “Just talk with your barber about which best fits your face shape and vibe.”
Growing and maintaining your mustache
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time for some tips on how to grow and maintain your mustache. Once again, we’ll turn to Drizzy for some guidelines.
- Keep the edges clean: Use a trimmer or a razor to maintain a neat shape, especially along the lip.
- Invest in mustache wax: A light hold wax helps train the hairs to grow in the direction you want while taming flyaways.
- Comb it daily: This not only keeps your mustache looking tidy but also helps with growth direction.
- Hydrate the hair and skin: A good beard oil isn’t just for beards; it also keeps the skin beneath the ‘stache healthy and itch free.
- Stick with it: Remember that the awkward stages are temporary, and with consistent care, your mustache will settle into a strong, defined look.
Other mustache styles and statements
Thinner mustaches haven’t quite been in style for a while, but the basic Clark Gable look can work for certain men. Maintaining a thin mustache takes more precision, but if you want it as your signature look, it’s definitely worth the effort.
The same goes for more adventurous styles like the handlebar and its cousin, the English. These mustaches aren’t generally considered ideal for beginners, but if you’ve got the patience to grow them out properly and you can develop the skills to maintain them, you can make a very personal statement that will definitely set you apart.
“Mustaches are more than just facial hair — they’re a personal style statement. Whether you’re going for a bold Walrus, a clean-cut Lampshade, or something in between, the key to making it work is regular grooming and a style that suits you.”
Wanna get REALLY unconventional? The Dali is one possibility
No discussion of mustaches would be complete without a word or three about the unconventional possibilities.
If you’re into serious weirdness, consider the Dali. As you might expect from a man whose signature painting, The Persistence of Memory, featured melting clocks, the artist who pioneered surrealism went against the grain by growing his mustache in an upward direction.
Dali’s mustache was inspired by a fellow artist, 17th century painter Diego Velazquez. Dali claimed his version of this mustache style was an antenna that could receive cosmic messages, and that it could defy death.
If you decide to do the Dali and find yourself wandering into this kind of belief system, however, you may want to consult both your barber and your mental health professional to make sure things stay properly grounded.
