The Mustache: Let’s Talk About It

from He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice

| WEARING | Montezemolo quilted topcoat, Al Bazar double-breasted blazer, shirt, and tie, Pants c/o Banana Republic, Warby Parker eyeglasses, Brooks Brothers gloves, Bag c/o Coach, Timex watch, Cole Haan shoes | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

If you follow HSS on Instagram, you may have noticed that Rob and I were in NYC last week shooting a special project that we’ll be publishing on Monday. You may have also noticed that I was sporting a little something on my upper lip. A mustache isn’t something I’ve ever worn regularly, but I was interested in trotting it out as a different feature of my personal style as well as a way to start a conversation. So, let’s talk about it.

If you haven’t read it already, there was an excellent article in The New York Times last month focusing on the mustache and its unlikely prospects of returning to its former glory as a potent symbol of masculinity. I won’t rehash the article — definitely check it out when you have the time – but basically what we’re dealing with is that somewhere along the line the mustache passed from just being passé or unfashionable . The reason? Well, it’s got a lot of baggage to unpack.

That’s not to say certain people don’t wear it well or pull it off without irony. One of my favorite bartenders looks great with his stache. And honestly, I sort of dig it on me personally, though I definitely think it ages me somewhat.

However, what I found most surprising was the response to the first photo I posted with it. To be perfectly honest, I thought the stache would be universally hated. In reality, the vast majority of followers liked it, with a small handful (mostly female) wishing they’d never seen it. An interesting gender divide. Why do you think that is?

One thing to keep in mind if you’re going to start sporting a mustache: it will be a conversation starter. Brace yourself because it’s going to happen. I knew when I went into work with it the first time, I’d be talking to everyone about it. Embrace it. And wear it confidently. There’s no other way.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian
He Spoke Style

The post The Mustache: Let’s Talk About It first appeared on the men's style blog He Spoke Style - Men's Style, Fashion, Grooming, Tips and Advice