Cowboy Mustache: Ultimate Guide to The Most Legendary Style
The cowboy mustache is a timeless and iconic style that has stood the test of time.
From the Wild West to modern day, this classic facial hair look has been sported by men of all backgrounds and professions.
Whether you’re a cowboy, a businessman, or just looking to add a touch of rugged masculinity to your look, the cowboy mustache is the perfect choice.
In this ultimate guide, we will delve into the history, styling, and maintenance of the cowboy mustache.
Furthermore we will provide useful tips and inspiration for rocking this legendary look. So, if you’re ready to embrace your inner cowboy, read on.
Table of Contents
- What is the Cowboy Mustache?
- History of the Cowboy Mustache
- Popular Variations of the Style
- How to Grow and Maintain a Cowboy Mustache
- Celebrity Inspiration for the Style
- Products and Tools for Styling
- How to Trim & Shape a Cowboy Mustache
- How to Pair a Cowboy Mustache with Different Outfits
- Common Mistakes to Avoid when Growing a Cowboy Mustache
- Conclusion
What is the Cowboy Mustache?

The cowboy mustache is a unique facial hair style that is most commonly associated with the American Old West.
This facial hair style consists of a long bushy or thick mustache that is often curled or waxed at the ends. The mustache typically extends down past the lips and covers the entire mouth.
The cowboy mustache was once a very popular facial hair style among cowboys and outlaws in the American West.
Today, the cowboy mustache is still worn by some men, but it is not nearly as common as it once was.
History of the Cowboy Mustache
The cowboy mustache, also known as the “handlebar mustache,” has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century.
During the American Westward Expansion, cowboys were some of the first men to sport this distinctive style.
The mustache was seen as a symbol of masculinity, strength, and ruggedness. It quickly became a popular choice among cowboys and other frontiersmen.
The cowboy mustache was also worn by soldiers during the American Civil War. It was a popular style among the military officers.
The style was then adopted by the general public and became a fashion statement in the late 1800s.
As the Westward Expansion continued, the cowboy mustache became more and more popular.
It was also a practical choice for cowboys, as the mustache offered protection from the sun and dust on the open range.
The cowboy mustache reached the peak of its popularity in the early 20th century, during the silent film era.
Many actors started to wear as it was the most popular facial hair style of the time. As time passed, the popularity of the mustache waned, but it never truly went away.
Today, the style is still worn. It is also popular among enthusiasts of Western culture and among re-enactors of the American civil war.
Popular Variations of the Style



The cowboy mustache is a timeless style that has been popular for centuries with many variations becoming more popular.
Here are some of the most popular variations:
- The handlebar mustache: This variation is characterized by its long, thin mustache hairs that are often curled at the ends.
- The chevron mustache: This mustache style is characterized by its thick, V-shaped mustache hairs.
- The walrus mustache: The obvious characteristics of the style is its thick, bushy mustache hairs that often cover the entire upper lip.
- The pencil mustache: This variation of the cowboy mustache is characterized by its thin, well-groomed mustache hairs that are often slicked down with pomade wax.
How to Grow and Maintain a Cowboy Mustache
Growing and maintaining a cowboy mustache can be a bit of a commitment. But with the right techniques and products, it can be a relatively easy process.
The first step is to let your facial hair grow out for a few weeks. Once you have a good amount of hair to work with, you can start shaping and trimming it to your desired style.
To maintain a healthy and well-groomed mustache, it is important to keep it clean and moisturized. Use a gentle shampoo or beard wash to clean your mustache.
Follow up with a beard oil or balm to keep it hydrated and soft. Regularly comb or brush your mustache to keep it neat and tangle-free.
Trimming and shaping your mustache is also important for maintaining the desired shape. Use scissors or a trimmer to keep the mustache at a uniform length.
Make sure you define the edges of the mustache. It is also important to pay attention to the shape of the mustache and to trim it accordingly.
You can also use a mustache wax or pomade to style and hold the mustache in place. With this guide you will be able to achieve the desired look.

Celebrity Inspiration for the Style
Celebrities have been rocking the cowboy mustache style for decades, making it a popular and iconic look.
Some notable examples include Tom Selleck, who made the mustache famous in the 1980s TV series “Magnum P.I.”.
His character, Thomas Magnum, had a thick and full mustache that became an iconic part of his image. Similarly, Sam Elliott, has been sporting the mustache for decades.
Other celebrities who have been known for sporting this mustache include Brad Pitt, who grew one for his role in the film “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”.
These celebrities have helped to bring the cowboy mustache back into the spotlight and have inspired many men to try the style for themselves.
The combination of the rugged, masculine look of the mustache with their fame and success has made it an attractive option for men looking to add some personality and style to their appearance.
Products and Tools for Styling
When it comes to styling, there are several products and tools that can help you achieve the perfect look.
Mustache wax is a crucial tool for styling a cowboy mustache. It is used to shape, hold, and tame the mustache.
It comes in different hold strengths, from light to medium to strong, and it’s important to choose the right one based on your desired look and the thickness of your mustache.
Wax can be applied to the mustache with your fingers or with a comb, and it can be used to create different shapes and styles.
Beard oil or balm is another important tool for maintaining the health and appearance of a cowboy mustache.
These oils and balms are used to moisturize and condition the mustache, which helps keep it soft, shiny, and manageable. They also help to prevent itching and flaking.
A mustache comb or brush is also an essential tool when it comes to styling and maintaining a cowboy mustache.
It helps to distribute the oil or balm evenly through the mustache and it can also be used to shape and style the mustache.
Scissors or trimmers are also necessary for maintaining the length and shape of the mustache.
Scissors can be used to trim the mustache, while trimmers can be used to define the edges of the mustache and to keep it at a uniform length.
How to Trim & Shape a Cowboy Mustache
How to Pair a Cowboy Mustache with Different Outfits
A cowboy mustache can be paired with a variety of different outfits to create a wide range of looks. Here are a few tips on how to pair this mustache with different outfits:
- Formal wear: A cowboy mustache can add a touch of rugged masculinity to a formal outfit. Pair it with a classic suit and tie for a sophisticated yet unique look.
- Casual wear: The mustache is a great choice for a casual, laid-back look. Pair it with a denim jacket, a flannel shirt, and a pair of jeans for a classic, Western-inspired look.
- Business attire: A cowboy mustache can add a sense of authority and professionalism to a business attire. Pair it with a button-up shirt, a blazer, and dress pants for a polished yet unique look.
- Outdoor wear: This mustache is a great choice for outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, or fishing. Pair it with a plaid shirt, a jacket, and a pair of sturdy boots for a rugged and outdoorsy look.
- Costumes: The mustache style is a popular choice for costumes and can be paired with costumes such as a cowboy, outlaw, and even a gunslinger.
It’s important to keep in mind that the cowboy mustache can be paired with a variety of different outfits, depending on the occasion and the look you’re going for.
The key is to experiment with different styles and to find a look that works for you.
Additionally, it’s important to keep the mustache well-groomed and styled to ensure that it complements your outfit, rather than detracting from it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid when Growing a Cowboy Mustache

When growing a cowboy mustache, there are a few common mistakes that you will want to avoid. First, do not try to grow your mustache too fast.
This will only lead to uneven growth and patches. Second, make sure to keep your mustache well-groomed. This means trimming it regularly and keeping it clean.
Third, avoid using any products on your mustache that could cause irritation. Choose a gentle, mustache-specific shampoo and avoid using any harsh chemicals.
Finally, be patient! Growing a great mustache takes time, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen overnight.
Conclusion
The Cowboy Mustache is a timeless style that will never go out of fashion. It is the most iconic and legendary facial hair style in the world.
If you want to look like a true cowboy, then you need to grow a mustache. This article provided a complete guide to growing and grooming a cowboy mustache.
So what are you waiting for? Like, follow and share this article to get started on your journey to becoming a true cowboy.