From the handlebar to the pencil, mustaches have been more than just facial hair—they're statements of personality, power, and even rebellion. Whether you're rocking a full Chevron like Tom Selleck or a subtle Clark Gable, your 'stache says a lot about you before you even speak. Let’s dive into the legendary lip sweaters that left their mark on history and see which one might just be your signature look.
Think Magnum P.I. or Freddie Mercury—thick, bold, and impossible to ignore. The Chevron is the mustache equivalent of a power suit. It’s low-maintenance but demands respect, covering the top lip with a natural, bushy presence. If you’re the type who walks into a room and owns it without trying too hard, this might be your match. Just keep it trimmed enough to avoid the "wilderness explorer" vibe unless that’s your thing.
Rolled ends, waxed to perfection—the Handlebar is for the guy who pairs his mustache with a vintage motorcycle and a leather jacket. This style peaked in the late 1800s but made a comeback thanks to hipsters and old-school rebels like Salvador Dalí (who took it to surreal extremes). It’s high-maintenance but worth it for the sheer flair. If you’re willing to spend more time on your ‘stache than your hair, this one’s a winner.
Thin, precise, and oozing old-Hollywood charm, the Pencil is for the guy who prefers subtlety over statement. Clark Gable and John Waters made this look iconic—it’s sleek, slightly mischievous, and works best with a sharp suit or a devil-may-care attitude. The catch? It requires daily upkeep. One missed shave, and you’re veering into "sketchy magician" territory.
Wild, untamed, and gloriously bushy—the Walrus is for men who embrace the "no rules" philosophy. Think Sam Elliott or Teddy Roosevelt. This style doesn’t just sit on your face; it dominates it. Perfect for guys who’d rather sip whiskey by a fireplace than worry about trimming. Just be prepared for crumbs and occasional soup casualties.
Long, drooping, and straight out of a martial arts flick, the Fu Manchu is less "dad vibes" and more "wise warrior." It’s a commitment, both in growth time and in the stares you’ll get at the grocery store. But if you’re going for enigmatic or just really love Bruce Lee movies, this one’s a conversation starter.
Hulk Hogan and Lemmy from Motörhead turned this upside-down U into a symbol of rock-and-roll rebellion. It’s essentially a Fu Manchu with a middle section, giving off "biker bar regular" energy. Not for the faint of heart, but if you’ve got a leather vest and a collection of band tees, lean into it.
Twirled upward with military precision, the Imperial screams "19th-century general" or "guy who owns a monocle." It’s the mustache equivalent of wearing a cape—extra in the best way. If you’ve ever fantasized about dueling at dawn or quoting Shakespeare unprompted, this is your look.
Thanks to Charlie Chaplin (and later, Hitler), this tiny rectangle is the most controversial ‘stache in history. It’s quirky, polarizing, and takes confidence to pull off. If you’re the type who doesn’t care what people think—and maybe even enjoys the debate—go for it. Just maybe avoid pairing it with a bowler hat.
Like the Handlebar’s sophisticated cousin, the English is thin with slightly curled tips. It’s the mustache of poets, detectives, and guys who drink tea but could still win a bar fight. David Niven rocked it flawlessly—ideal if you want to look cultured but with a hint of danger.
Named after the painter Anthony Van Dyke, this combo of a pointy mustache and a goatee is for the creative types. Think musketeers, pirates, or that friend who owns too many scarves. It’s versatile—pair it with a beret for "struggling artist" or a cravat for "eccentric genius."
So, which one speaks to you? Whether you’re channeling a walrus-level commitment or a pencil-thin hint of mischief, remember: a great mustache isn’t just grown—it’s curated. Now go forth and let your upper lip do the talking.
