About Handlebar Mustaches
Mustaches have been historically recorded as far back as 300 B.C., and have continually evolved and kept up with human culture. The handlebar mustache is a unique style that is associated with nineteenth century military officers and early American Western films, and is still very popular today. Does this Spark an idea?
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Features
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In order for a mustache to be considered of the handlebar variety, it must have long "extremities." That is, the ends of the mustache that rise off of the grower's face must be significant enough in length to be grabbed or held. This is an important distinguishing factor, as it takes years, not weeks, to accomplish.
History
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The first recorded appearance of a mustache dates back to around 300 B.C., although it is difficult to say when the first handlebar mustache was fashioned.
Mustaches of all kinds became incredibly popular in the military around the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. The higher a man's rank, the more elaborate of a mustache he was permitted to wear. It follows, then, that handlebar mustaches would only have been acceptable for high ranking officers.
The handlebar mustache became a cliche of Western films in twentieth century America, and the Western is now the most common association with the style. -
Identification
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A handlebar mustache is easily identified by the length of its extremities. These extremities are often curled at the ends, a feat accomplished most often by using mustache wax.
Misconceptions
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It is easy to confuse other types of mustaches with the handlebar, and there are several factors to consider when classifying a mustache. A handlebar mustache does not include any facial hair on the chin or cheeks; it is solely a mustache. This separates the handlebar from several other types of facial hair, most notably the Fu Manchu mustache.
In general, handlebar mustaches do not thin out as they extend away from the nose. The goal of the handlebar is to maintain a uniform thickness throughout.
Significance
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Handlebar mustaches have become synonymous with Western culture and film in the United States, but their significance abroad may be even greater. In past centuries, the handlebar has been a signifier of power and high rank, especially in the military, and its importance should not be underestimated. The amount of time a person must invest in growing a handlebar mustache also speaks to the dedication and individuality of those who chose to wear the style.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Kelly Martin
