There is one guaranteed way to stand out from the crowd and look like a sophisticated gent, and that is to grow a walrus mustache. Think of Ron Swanson from the critically acclaimed TV show Parks and Recreation, and his mustache oozes charisma and authority.
The good news is that a Walrus style mustache looks good on many face shapes, meaning you can probably pull it off. Do things right, and you can end up in a select group of guys with mustaches to be envied and admired.
All you need is some inspiration and guidance, and that is where we step in. Today, we have gathered a diverse range of walrus mustache styles that showcase the creativity and versatility of this classic, bold look.
Whether you’re a fan of vintage elegance or prefer a modern twist, these examples will inspire you to experiment with your own facial hair. Get ready to explore 8 exceptional walrus mustache examples that will undoubtedly leave you in awe.
What Is A Walrus Mustache?
Put simply, a walrus mustache resembles a beard on the upper lip. This style involves growing a mustache so long that it covers the entire upper lip and, in most cases, extends to the base of the beard, resembling a walrus’ muzzle.
A genuine walrus mustache is incredibly bushy, extending over the top lip and partially concealing the mouth. The most impressive examples completely cover the mouth.
On the sides, the mustache extends at least past the bottom lip and can reach down to the chin. It doesn’t require any elaborate grooming techniques – just a simple, rugged, and bushy mustache.
It’s important not to mistake the walrus for the tamer chevron mustache style, made famous by actor Tom Selleck (for more famous mustaches, check out our guide to The Zappa). Unlike the Walrus, the chevron is well-trimmed and never extends beyond the upper lip, with the sides also staying above the upper lip.
Likewise, the walrus must not be confused with the handlebar mustache, which features ends that curl upward towards the cheeks. Sporting a walrus mustache is a characteristic of a “man’s man,” and people may make certain assumptions about your personality.
More often than not, others may think you have a rugged side, are a bit rough around the edges, but not unkind, prefer directness and simplicity, and you don’t tolerate nonsense from others.
Sounds like you? Well, we think it’s time you grew a Walrus mustache! Growing this bold style will help you exude confidence and charm.
Famous Walrus Mustaches
1. The Droop
The renowned droopy walrus mustache style, famously worn by actor Sam Elliott, is often associated with seasoned cowboys. When picturing an aged and wise cowboy, this is likely the type of mustache that comes to mind.
To achieve this look, it’s essential to let your mustache grow long, thick, and wide. The natural tendency of this style is for the mustache to droop downward.
If you aim to emulate Sam Elliott’s iconic mustache, refrain from trimming the sides and allow them to grow as long as possible.
2. Walrus Mustache With A Walrus Beard
To achieve this particular style, the key is to allow your mustache and beard to grow naturally without over trimming. However, it’s important to trim the beard if it starts to surpass the length of the mustache.
Also, you’ll need to train both the mustache and beard to grow downward, following the same direction. The desired outcome is for roughly half of your face to be covered with hair, with your mouth completely concealed from view.
3. The John Lennon
You are the walrus, Goo goo g’joob! John Lennon sported an array of different facial hair styles during his lifetime, such as big bushy beards and goatees. But, one of his most iconic looks was his walrus mustache.
This is the style that John Lennon sported during the recording and release of the Beatles’ album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club.
It involves a simple brushed-down mustache that gracefully curls downwards, extending from half an inch to an inch below the upper lip line. Easy and stylish!
4. The John Lennon Combined With A Beard
By combining the John Lennon mustache with a full beard, you can achieve a simultaneously sophisticated and rugged appearance. But, this requires many months of growing and not shaving.
The picture above shows an extreme example, but you can tidy the beard and mustache up by trimming them lower.
Nevertheless, this style is particularly suitable if you desire a blend of sophistication and ruggedness. It closely resembles the look John Lennon sported during the White Album era.
5. Long Walrus With A Beard
This particular walrus mustache style entails allowing it to grow to a minimum length of two inches. It is then accompanied by a full beard of similar length, or longer, which is carefully shaped to achieve a refined appearance.
The beard is grown until it connects with the ends of the mustache, creating a cohesive and sophisticated look.
6. The Friedrich Nietzsche Walrus Mustache
Bring out your inner philosopher with the Friedrich Nietzsche walrus mustache, a distinctive style characterized by its resemblance to the mustache worn by the philosopher.
This style involves growing a large, bushy mustache that extends beyond the edges of the upper lip and droops down towards the chin.
The mustache is typically grown to a significant length and is not trimmed or styled in a specific manner. It is a bold and dramatic facial hair choice that pays homage to Nietzsche’s iconic look.
7. Indie Walrus Plus A Full Beard
The indie walrus, paired with a full beard, is a variation of the regular walrus mustache style. In this version, the ends of the mustache are grown significantly longer than the rest, often reaching up to two inches below the lower lip.
The full beard accompanies the mustache, with its length matching that of the top of the walrus mustache. However, it’s important to note that the ends of the mustache should remain noticeably longer than the rest, adding to the distinctive indie aesthetic.
8. The Walrus With Stubble
The Walrus with thick stubble is a variation of the regular John Lennon mustache style we discussed above.
As the name implies, this look involves maintaining the customary John Lennon mustache while trimming the accompanying beard to a length of approximately a quarter of an inch using clippers.
The result is a defined and noticeable stubble that complements the mustache, perfect for those with weaker jawlines.
How To Grow A Walrus Mustache?
To grow a distinguished walrus mustache, follow these simple steps:
Allow your mustache to grow without trimming until it reaches your desired length.
Use high-quality beard oil or balm to keep it moisturized and prevent dryness and itching.
Comb the hairs downward regularly to train them and prevent unruly curling.
Once the mustache fully covers your upper lip, consider trimming it.
Use a mustache comb to train the hairs to grow downward.
In Summary
Growing a distinguished walrus mustache doesn’t require any fancy techniques; just let your facial hair grow naturally and comb it regularly. And then enjoy the admiration you’ll receive!
