Whether you spell it 'mustache' or 'moustache', there's no question that it’s been a longstanding mainstay of the male upper lip. If you’re ready to adopt your own, you’ll soon learn that there are many types of moustache to play with – and not all moustaches are created equal. Check out our list of the best here, and find one that perfectly complements your look.
… but the moustache is a tool of self-expression. And with such a wide range of styles to choose from, there are many ways to express yourself. Here’s how to choose a moustache style to suit your face:
With its hint of cowboy, the Dallas has long been one of the most confidently masculine trimmed moustache styles. Just be sure to shampoo and trim it regularly, to make sure you don’t end up smelling like a cowboy, too. Unlike roping a steer, the Dallas is easy to achieve: follow our five steps, and it should take just a few months to take beautiful effect.
Best for: Square faces. Embrace that strong jaw with a strong ‘tache.
As the name suggests, this is an unpretentious, no-nonsense moustache that is neither a trim Clark Gable number, nor extravagantly bushy. This is the moustache for those who like to express their masculinity in an understated, unfussy way, and it's one of the easiest short moustache styles to achieve. Handlebar moustache Another moustache with echoes of the 19th-century Wild West, the handlebar moustache is distinguished by its wiry edges that resemble gracefully upturned bicycle handlebars. It's the perfect match for a pipe or a horse.
Best for: Everyone and anyone. No rules here. Find out how to get the natural moustache here.
Best for: A nicely cowboy-esque square face can help you pull off this most gentlemanly of moustache styles. Find out how to get the handlebar moustache here.
Lacking the upper-class breeding of the handlebar moustache, the horseshoe is the less-civilised 'black sheep' of the moustache family. You might have last seen it on Hulk Hogan or another of his pro wrestler brethren, causing as much bad luck as any other upside-down horseshoe.
Best for: Round and square faces looking to add some length.
Definitely not a shy moustache, the Chevron displays itself loudly and proudly upon the wearer's top lip, representing a hefty style statement. Grow some beard stubble below it, and you’ll have an even more formidable look that will attract knowing nods of appreciation from closet connoisseurs of the finest trimmed moustache styles.
Best for: If you have small features, the chevron will dominate your face. If not, you’re fine to take this strong moustache style on.
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Trim, edge and shave any length of hair
The Philips OneBlade is a revolutionary new hybrid styler that can trim, shave and create clean lines and edges, on any length of hair. Forget about using multiple steps and tools. OneBlade does it all. See all benefits
This sophisticated moustache is characterised by a wide base that slightly narrows as it reaches the nose. When it's done right – and rest assured that this isn't one of the more challenging short moustache styles to grow – the pyramid 'tache will look good on almost any face shape, its borders easily maintained with a stubble or precision trimmer.
Best for: A well-constructed pyramid moustache will suit most.
The Zappa moustache is as much a one-off as Frank Zappa himself, combining a wide soul patch with a full moustache growing slightly past the corners of the mouth. As a rule of thumb, the fuller your Zappa 'tache is, the better – although unlike some other moustache styles, it isn't too high-maintenance either. A bit of stubble will complement it nicely.
Best for: Oblong faces, or those seeking more definition.
For a sophisticated look from the old school, there can surely be no better moustache than the Clark Gable, this thickish pencil-thin number exuding the class of the Hollywood legend. It’s one of the most distinguished and tidy types of moustache around ¬– but be warned, daily upkeep is required to sustain the impeccable facial hair standards of Gable himself.
Best for: Almost everyone, but it can merge into the background if your hair is pale.
Also known as the ’cop stache’ in some quarters, the military moustache– with its top curved edges and lower edge that doesn’t grow over the lip – really does command instant attention and respect. Add a star-shaped badge for extra 'law enforcement' appeal.
Best for: Square faces with well-defined jaw lines are well complemented by this strong ‘tache.
The moustache has always commanded a certain level of respect – the commitment required to grow and maintain one being widely recognised. Today, moustache are enjoying something of a revival among the well-groomed, sharply-dressed and fashionable set. This is partly down to the popularity of 'Movember', which inspires a fresh crop of moustache each year as guys go for a mo’ to raise money for and awareness of male health and wellbeing issues.
If you’re ready to join in this year, you can’t go wrong with one of the moustache styles here. If you discover it’s not for you, well, you can always shave it off – or graduate to a thick, full beard for Christmas.
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