English Mustache: A Quick Guide to Style Like A PRO
The English mustache is sort of reminiscent of the Dali mustache but the curve is less dramatic. A true English mustache will also be divided in the center, which may force those with extremely full mustaches to do some trimming.
This mustache is also tight and narrow so don’t hesitate to cut your mustache down a bit if you have to.
What is An English Mustache?
The English Mustache is a classic style of facial hair, known for its refined appearance. It’s distinctive due to its thin, long whiskers. These are grown only above the upper lip.
A defining feature is the division in the middle, creating a gap right above the lip. Each end of the mustache extends out past the sides of the mouth. Often, there’s a slight upward curve.
Styling with wax can give this mustache a more defined and stiff look. Its vibe is regal and vintage. It reminds us of the distinguished gentlemen from the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
How to Style The English Mustache
Styling the English men’s mustache isn’t too difficult and you’ll just need a couple of supplies, including a comb, mustache wax, and beard trimmers if necessary.
The Goal
When you are going for an English mustache, you want length; ideally, you want the mustache to be narrow or to at least come to a point.
Rather than angle upward or downward, this mustache style is mostly straight so you don’t have to worry about curvature.
Traditionally, you would shave the rest of your face but these days, people wear some version of this mustache with the rest of their facial hair.
Styling the Mustache
Styling a mustache inspired by the English men starts as soon as your hairs are long enough to manipulate. You can start training your mustache early on so that you won’t be forcing it as much when it’s fully grown. To style an English mustache, make sure that you do everything listed here.
- Work the hair as it grows: Once the hairs are long enough to comb, start combing it every day. Comb the hairs down and to the side, parting your mustache in the center. Once your hairs get a bit longer, you can start twisting and twirling the ends into a point.
- Massage wax into your mustache: Once the mustache starts to take shape, you can start massaging mustache wax into the hair, shaping it in the process. To avoid drooping, you should use a high-quality, professional wax that can keep your hair in place. Use additional products if you have to.
- Form straight points: Relatives of the mustache might curve upward or go in a loop but with this mustache, the points stick straight out. You’ll twist and twirl the ends of your mustache while pulling each end until they’re straight and tight.
- Comb and wax regularly: To maintain the look, you’ll need to comb and wax your mustache on a regular basis. The goal is to train the bristles of your mustache to grow towards the corners of your mouth.
- Shampoo your Mustache: It’s also probably a good idea to shampoo your mustache every now and again to keep it looking good. Also, since your mustache will be tight and twisted, you’ll want to undo this and wash it.
Variations of the English Mustache
Everybody’s mustache is different and you, of course, have the freedom to do whatever you want with your facial hair. An English mustache can be thin and narrow while others are bushy toward the middle and pointy at the ends.
If you want to get really crazy, you can give it a nice curl or train the ends of your mustache to point upward so that you resemble Salvador Dali’s mustache.
Who Should Try an English Mustache?
An English mustache is a classic facial hair style that is characterized by its narrow, straight, and elongated shape that extends outward from the center of the upper lip. The whiskers are often kept neatly trimmed, and the mustache itself is typically separated from the rest of the facial hair, which is kept clean-shaven.
Below are some considerations for who should try an English mustache:
- Individuals with Defined Facial Features: Those with sharp and defined facial features, such as high cheekbones and a strong jawline, may find that the linear and streamlined nature of an English mustache complements their facial structure.
- People Seeking a Distinguished Look: The English mustache has a sophisticated and elegant air about it. For individuals desiring to project an aura of refinement and poise, this mustache style can be an excellent choice.
- Thin-Lipped Individuals: Men with thinner lips may benefit from the English mustache as it adds some prominence to the upper lip area without overshadowing the mouth.
- Professionals in Formal Settings: The English mustache, when well-maintained, can lend a polished and urbane appearance, making it suitable for professionals who frequent formal settings or engage in client-facing roles.
- Those with Adequate Growth Along the Lip: An English mustache requires sufficient hair growth along the upper lip. Those who can grow thick and straight whiskers are ideal candidates for this style.
- Enthusiasts of Vintage Fashion: As a mustache style that was notably popular in the early 20th century, the English mustache is well-suited for individuals who have a penchant for vintage or retro aesthetics.
- Adventurous Grooming Aficionados: For those who enjoy experimenting with different grooming styles and aren’t afraid to try something more distinct and less common, the English mustache offers a classic yet bold option.
Popular Celebrities Who Sported English Mustache
Who doesn’t love a good mustache, right? Especially when it’s an English one – all thin, long, and classy. Over the years, some seriously cool celebs have rocked this style, making it their own.
So, let’s dive right into a fun list of 10 famous faces who nailed the English mustache look. Ready to meet the mustached maestros? Here we go!
1. David Niven (1910-1983)
The English actor was famous for his neatly trimmed and well-groomed English mustache, which became a defining part of his urbane, sophisticated persona.
2. John Cleese (1939-present)
Known for his roles in Monty Python and Fawlty Towers, the English actor and comedian sported a distinctive English mustache that became part of his signature look.
3. Hercule Poirot (Fictional character)
Although a fictional character, Agatha Christie’s detective, played memorably by David Suchet, is renowned for his meticulously maintained English mustache.
4. Terry-Thomas (1911-1990)
The English comedian and character actor, famous for his roles in classic British comedies, often sported a well-groomed English mustache, enhancing his rakish charm.
5. Clark Gable (1901-1960)
One of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, Gable often sported a version of the English mustache, which added to his charisma and dashing on-screen persona.
6. Errol Flynn (1909-1959)
This swashbuckling actor was known for his good looks and his neatly trimmed English mustache, adding to his roguish charm.
7. Groucho Marx (1890-1977)
As one of the famous Marx Brothers, Groucho often sported a large, exaggerated version of the English mustache, although his was often drawn on with greasepaint.
8. Burt Reynolds (1936-2018)
The American actor often sported a thick, lush mustache which, although not strictly an English mustache, shared similarities with its fullness and care in grooming.
9. Wyatt Earp (1848-1929)
The historical lawman and gambler, portrayed by various actors in film and television, is often depicted with a well-groomed, elongated mustache similar to the English style.
10. Roger Moore (1927-2017)
While playing the iconic role of James Bond, Moore sported a refined English mustache, showcasing his gentleman spy persona.
