The Ultimate Moustache Guide: Styles, Icons, Grooming Tips & Even Pizza
Introduction: Why the Moustache Never Goes Out of Style
Few facial hair styles carry as much personality, history, and sheer swagger as the moustache. Whether you’re aiming for a classic handlebar moustache, a rugged horseshoe moustache, or a retro moustache 70s vibe, this humble strip of upper lip hair has the power to transform your entire look.
But the word moustache isn’t just about grooming. It also appears in unexpected places—like a legendary pizza joint in New York. That’s right. We’re going to talk about moustache pitza new york and moustache pitza west village too. Because why should facial hair have all the fun?
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn about moustache styles for every face shape, iconic cartoon characters moustache designs, how to groom a handlebar moustache and beard combo, and even where to find the best moustache pitza in NYC. Plus, we’ll cover fake moustache options for costume parties, the best moustache grooming tools, and why mr moustache has become a cultural archetype.
Let’s dig in.
Chapter 1: A Brief History of the Moustache
The moustache has been around for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian pharaohs, Greek philosophers, and Roman soldiers all wore variations. But the modern era of moustache culture really took off in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Golden Eras of Moustache
| Era | Signature Style | Famous Wearers |
|---|---|---|
| Victorian Era | Long, waxed handlebar | Thomas Edison, Salvador Dalí |
| 1970s | Thick, bushy, natural | Freddie Mercury, Burt Reynolds |
| Modern Day | Everything from hipster to minimalist | Nick Offerman, Henry Cavill |
The moustache 70s remains one of the most beloved and parodied styles. Think wide lapels, disco balls, and a thick 70’s style moustache sitting above a knowing smile. It was an era of excess, and the moustache reflected that.
Today, the best moustache is whatever makes you feel confident. But some styles have stood the test of time.
Chapter 2: Popular Moustache Styles
There are dozens of moustache styles, but a few dominate the conversation. Let’s break them down.
1. Handlebar Moustache
The handlebar moustache is the king of statement facial hair. Characterized by long, upturned ends that curl upward like—you guessed it—handlebars, this style requires patience, wax, and dedication.
Best for: Oval or round faces
Grooming needs: High (daily waxing and shaping)
Vibe: Vintage, distinguished, slightly mischievous
2. Horseshoe Moustache
The horseshoe moustache is essentially a full moustache with vertical extensions growing straight down along the sides of the mouth. It resembles an upside-down horseshoe (or a certain professional wrestler from the 80s).
Best for: Square or angular faces
Grooming needs: Moderate
Vibe: Tough, rebellious, biker-adjacent
3. Scissors Moustache
The scissors moustache is a lesser-known but highly distinctive style. It features two separate, pointed sections that extend outward and slightly upward, resembling open scissors. This is an advanced style that requires precision trimming.
Best for: Narrow faces
Grooming needs: High
Vibe: Artistic, avant-garde
4. Cop Moustache
The cop moustache is exactly what it sounds like: a neat, trimmed, no-nonsense moustache that fits perfectly under a police cap. Think of any 1980s action movie. It’s clean, professional, and just authoritative enough.
Best for: Most face shapes
Grooming needs: Low to moderate
Vibe: Authoritative, clean-cut, reliable
5. 70’s Style Moustache (Chevron)
The 70’s style moustache (also called a chevron) is thick, full, and covers the entire upper lip right down to the lip line. It doesn’t curl. It doesn’t taper. It just exists—boldly.
Best for: Long or rectangular faces
Grooming needs: Low
Vibe: Retro, confident, laid-back
Chapter 3: Moustache and Beard Combinations
Sometimes a moustache is better with friends. The handlebar moustache and beard combination is particularly popular among modern beardsmen.
Why Pair a Handlebar Moustache with a Beard?
- Balance: A dramatic moustache can look isolated on a clean-shaven face. A beard grounds it.
- Contrast: The curled moustache ends pop against a straight or slightly textured beard.
- Versatility: You can keep the beard short (stubble) or long (full lumberjack).
Grooming tip for handlebar moustache and beard: Use a stronger wax on the moustache and a softer balm on the beard. They have different needs.
Other moustache and combinations include:
- Moustache and goatee
- Moustache and sideburns
- Moustache and stubble
The key is ensuring the two elements complement rather than compete.
Chapter 4: Moustaches in Pop Culture (Cartoons, Characters, and Mr. Moustache)
Cartoon Characters Moustache
Some of the most beloved cartoon characters moustache designs are instantly recognizable. Think of Mr. Moustache as an archetype—the cartoon villain, the train conductor, the mischievous uncle.
Famous cartoon characters moustache examples:
| Character | Moustache Style | Cartoon/Show |
|---|---|---|
| Yosemite Sam | Wild handlebar | Looney Tunes |
| Dick Dastardly | Long, waxed handlebar | Wacky Races |
| Hercule Poirot | Neat, clipped | Various adaptations |
| Luigi | Curled, friendly | Super Mario (various media) |
The moustaches cartoon tradition goes back to the early days of animation, where a simple curved line above the lip could convey age, wisdom, villainy, or comedy.
Famous Moustache People in Real Life
Famous moustache people have shaped culture for over a century. Here are a few legends:
- Salvador Dalí – Surrealist painter with an even more surreal moustache
- Freddie Mercury – The Queen frontman owned the moustache 70s look
- Tom Selleck – Magnum P.I. made the chevron iconic
- Sam Elliott – The voice of the West and a magnificent handlebar
- Burt Reynolds – Smokey and the Bandit-era 70’s style moustache
These famous moustache people prove that a great moustache is more than hair—it’s an identity.
Chapter 5: Moustache Pitza – A New York Legend
Now for something completely different (and delicious).
Moustache Pitza New York is not a grooming product. It’s a beloved halal pizza joint with two famous locations. If you’ve ever craved a late-night slice in Manhattan, you’ve probably heard of moustache pitza west village.
Moustache Pitza West Village
Located on Bedford Street, moustache pitza west village has been serving up unique, Middle Eastern-inspired pizzas since 2008. Think toppings like lamb, feta, za’atar, and eggplant. It’s not your average pepperoni slice.
Moustache Pitza New York – The Vibe
The original moustache pitza new york location (also in the West Village) is tiny, cash-only, and open until the early morning hours. It’s a rite of passage for NYU students, late-night revelers, and anyone who appreciates a crispy, thin-crust pie with a side of attitude.
Why the name? The owner allegedly chose “Moustache” because it’s memorable, slightly quirky, and easy to spell in any language. There’s no actual moustache required for entry.
If you’re ever in Manhattan, do yourself a favor: visit moustache pitza west village, order the “Bomb” (a spicy, brick-oven creation), and thank me later.
Chapter 6: Grooming Your Moustache – Tools and Techniques
Whether you want a cop moustache or a horseshoe moustache, you need the right tools.
Essential Moustache Grooming Kit
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Small precision scissors | For trimming stray hairs (never use regular scissors—use scissors moustache-specific small shears) |
| Moustache wax | For shaping handlebar or curled styles |
| Small comb | For daily detangling |
| Electric trimmer | For maintaining even length |
| Boar bristle brush | For training hairs to grow in the right direction |
Step-by-Step Moustache Grooming Routine
- Wash your moustache with a gentle facial cleanser (regular shampoo is too harsh).
- Comb downward to detangle.
- Trim any hairs that extend over your upper lip (unless you’re growing a 70’s style moustache that covers the lip).
- Apply wax by warming a pea-sized amount between your fingers.
- Shape using your fingers or a small brush. For a handlebar moustache, twist the ends upward.
- Set with a cool blast from a hairdryer if needed.
How to Grow a Moustache Faster
- Be patient. Most men need 4–6 weeks for full coverage.
- Don’t trim early. Let it grow wild before shaping.
- Use beard oil (yes, it works for moustaches too).
- Stay hydrated and eat protein-rich foods.
Chapter 7: Fake Moustache – For Costumes and Pranks
Not ready to commit to years of grooming? A fake moustache is your friend.
Fake moustache options range from cheap gag store stickers to high-quality theatrical grade pieces made from real human hair.
Types of Fake Moustache
| Type | Best For | Reusable? |
|---|---|---|
| Sticker/Adhesive | Quick costumes, parties | No |
| Magnetic (with nose wire) | Easy on/off | Yes |
| Theatrical (spirit gum) | Professional performances | Yes (with care) |
The best moustache for a costume party is usually a fake moustache that matches the era or character you’re portraying. Going as Freddie Mercury? You need a thick moustache 70s style. Dressing as a cartoon villain? Any exaggerated cartoon characters moustache will do.
Chapter 8: The Best Moustache for Your Face Shape
How do you choose the best moustache for you? It depends on your face shape.
| Face Shape | Recommended Moustache Style | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Round | Horseshoe or handlebar (adds angles) | Creates vertical lines |
| Oval | Almost anything (chevron, cop, handlebar) | Balanced proportions |
| Square | Soft, rounded styles (70’s style moustache) | Softens strong jaw |
| Long/Rectangular | Fuller, wider styles (horseshoe) | Adds width |
| Heart | Neat, trimmed (cop moustache) | Avoids adding volume to narrow chin |
If you’re still unsure, start with a cop moustache or 70’s style moustache. Both are classic, low-maintenance, and flattering on most men.
Chapter 9: Moustache Maintenance – Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Do wash your moustache daily (food gets trapped).
- Do use scissors moustache-specific small shears for precision.
- Do train your handlebar moustache with wax every morning.
- Do take progress photos to track growth.
Don’ts
- Don’t use regular shampoo (it dries out facial hair).
- Don’t trim your moustache while it’s wet (hair shrinks as it dries).
- Don’t give up during the “awkward phase” (weeks 2–4).
- Don’t forget to smile—a moustache looks best with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to grow a handlebar moustache?
Most men need 2–3 months of growth before they can start shaping a true handlebar moustache.
Can I have a moustache without a beard?
Absolutely. The cop moustache, horseshoe moustache, and 70’s style moustache all work perfectly on a clean-shaven face.
What’s the easiest moustache to maintain?
The cop moustache or a short chevron (both variants of the 70’s style moustache) require minimal daily effort.
Is moustache pitza west village still open?
Yes. As of 2026, both moustache pitza new york locations (West Village and East Village) continue to serve their famous halal pizzas. Check their Instagram for current hours.
Can I use a fake moustache daily?
Theatrical-grade fake moustache options adhered with spirit gum can last all day, but they are not recommended for daily use due to skin irritation.
Who is the most famous moustache person of all time?
Subjective, but Salvador Dalí, Freddie Mercury, and Tom Selleck are consistently top contenders.
Conclusion: Embrace the Moustache
Whether you’re growing a handlebar moustache, searching for the best moustache style for your face, admiring cartoon characters moustache designs, or planning a trip to moustache pitza west village, one thing is clear: the moustache is more than facial hair. It’s a statement. A conversation starter. A piece of art.
From mr moustache archetypes to real-life famous moustache people, from the retro charm of the moustache 70s to the modern precision of a scissors moustache, there’s a style for every personality.
And if you ever find yourself in New York with a perfectly waxed handlebar moustache and beard, walk into moustache pitza new york, order a slice, and tip your hat to the universe.
Because life is too short for a boring upper lip.
Ready to find your perfect moustache style? Check out our grooming product recommendations and step-by-step video tutorials for every moustache styles guide.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes. Always patch-test grooming products. Moustache Pitza hours and menu items may change—call ahead.
