There’s something undeniably powerful about a great mustache. It can turn a regular Tuesday into a red carpet moment or make your upper lip feel like it’s ready to command respect in an old-timey saloon or a modern coffee shop.
Whether it’s for a job interview, Movember, or just because you woke up feeling extra Burt Reynolds-y, there’s a ‘stache for every face and phase of life.
So, what are the best mustache styles out there? And more importantly—how do you know which one won’t make you look like a cartoon villain (unless that’s the vibe you’re going for, in which case, carry on)?
In this post, I’ll walk you through 20 classic, modern, and downright quirky mustache styles, breaking down who they suit best, how to style them, and yes, which ones I’ve personally tried—and survived.
1. Classic Chevron Mustache
@mustaches4all Ah, the Chevron—Tom Selleck made it legendary, and I tried it once during quarantine.
Thick, full, and slightly arched, it works best if your facial hair grows densely. Just trim around the lip line for a clean look hairstyle.
This one’s a staple in the world of mustache styles and perfect if you want a bold but no-fuss vibe.
2. Handlebar Mustache
@homostash You’ll need patience, wax, and maybe a little dramatic flair for this one.
I wore a handlebar mustache to a 1920s-themed party and left with compliments and a phone number.
It’s great for oval or longer faces, and twisting the ends gives it that signature curl.
Be ready for daily styling! A good fit if you’re into more retro-inspired looks like 90s blowout hairstyles.
3. Pencil-Thin Mustache
@leeopeer This one screams old-school charm. I tried it once and instantly looked like a 1940s film villain—in the best way.
It suits angular faces and gives a clean, polished look.
Keep it sharply trimmed and pair it with confidence (and maybe a tailored suit).
It complements sharp styles such as the feathered bob.
4. Walrus Mustache
@mustaches4all This mustache is big. Think full coverage over the lips and a little wild.
I attempted it during a “rugged explorer” phase—let’s just say soup became a problem.
It’s ideal for guys with thicker growth and pairs well with winter flannels and serious mountain-man energy.
5. Horseshoe Mustache
@iisotalo This one’s not for the faint of heart—it practically yells “I ride Harleys and flip tires for fun.”
I tried it once and immediately looked tougher (until I smiled).
Great for square jaws and bold personalities. Just make sure the lines are crisp to keep it clean.
6. Fu Manchu Mustache
@beardchampsusa I gave this a shot in my early 20s, mostly for cosplay.
It takes time to grow and a lot of trimming along the cheeks. Works best if you want something dramatic and unique.
Not super practical for everyday wear, but definitely unforgettable.
7. English Mustache
@simplystachen If refined and elegant is your style, this is a winner. Thin, straight lines parted in the middle—it’s like your mustache went to private school.
I wore this to a wedding once and got called “distinguished.”
Can’t complain. You’ll need wax to keep the tips neat.
8. Dali Mustache
@mhawk2229 Named after the surrealist artist himself—this one’s for the bold and artsy.
I couldn’t quite pull it off (my curl game was weak), but if your hair is fine and straight, you might have better luck.
It’s more fashion statement than everyday wear.
9. Imperial Mustache
@q_stachio This one’s all about volume. The tips flare outward and often blend into mutton chops.
I wore a trimmed-down version once and felt like a royal guard. Great for guys with full cheek growth and thick hair.
Expect lots of stares—and compliments. For an equally regal hairstyle pairing, explore messy updo ideas with texture and flair.
10. Thick Bushy Mustache
@thenunerstache Sometimes, more is more. I went full bushy last winter and felt like a lumberjack philosopher.
It’s low-maintenance and suits those with naturally heavy facial hair.
Keep the edges tidy and let the rest do its thing.
11. Short Boxed Mustache
@duan Think neat, structured, and office-appropriate. I wore this during a job interview phase—it’s subtle but sharp.
It’s one of those mustache styles that balances style and professionalism.
Regular trimming is key to keep the box shape crisp. Looks excellent when paired with tidy hairstyles like short natural haircuts
12. Lampshade Mustache
@Mason This one looks exactly like it sounds—square and tidy, like a little lampshade over your lip.
I rocked this in college for a few weeks; it’s neat, clean, and great for guys with symmetrical faces.
A good trimmer is your best friend here.
13. Pyramid Mustache
@neerajmalviya Wider at the bottom and narrow on top—it’s like your mustache went to geometry class.
I liked how it made my face look more structured. Great for guys with rounder faces looking to add angles.
Keep it tight and sharp at the base.
14. Painter’s Brush Mustache
@andrigo Simple, direct, and often confused with the Chevron.
I grew this one when I was too lazy to maintain a full beard. Best for straight hair growth and medium density.
It’s a classic style that doesn’t try too hard.
15. Cowboy Mustache
@guyyounes Picture a dusty saloon, a wide-brimmed hat, and this glorious, slightly unkempt mustache.
I wore this on a road trip through Texas—fitting, right? It works well with long faces and pairs best with a little beard scruff.
Just let it grow and ride the wave.
16. Hungarian Mustache
@bobandelliothismustache Big, bushy, and curved slightly upward—it’s dramatic but somehow still classy.
I wore this once for a theater production and got a surprising amount of real-life compliments.
Needs thick growth and some wax to hold shape. Ideal for square or heart-shaped faces.
17. Petit Handlebar Mustache
@handlebarstrength A smaller, more subtle version of the handlebar—great if you want charm without the circus.
I tried this after failing the full handlebar attempt. Much easier to manage and still gets attention.
Just curl the tips slightly and go about your day.
18. Natural Mustache
@jaredgulian This is what you get when you do… nothing. And honestly? Sometimes, that’s enough.
I rocked this for months while figuring out my next style move.
If your growth is even and not too wild, the natural look is easy and authentic.
19. Scruffy Mustache
@formerlyconrad Messy, rugged, and usually paired with stubble.
I wore this during a weeklong hiking trip and ended up liking the look more than I expected.
It works best for laid-back personalities and guys who hate grooming. Embrace the chaos.
20. Curled Tip Mustache
@thenunerstache Add a little twist (literally) to your look. This style is clean on the lip but curled at the ends for flair.
I styled mine with a tiny bit of balm and got nods from strangers on the street.
Best for straight, wax-friendly hair.
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