How to Have a Groucho Marx Mustache

Groucho Marx's trademark mustache

Groucho Marx is one of the most recognizable stars from Hollywood's early days, thanks in part to his exaggerated mustache and eyebrows. While Groucho did grow a real mustache later in life, for most of his career he wore a fake one made of greasepaint. You can channel your inner Groucho by making or growing your own Groucho Marx mustache.

Things You'll Need

• Greasepaint
• Cloth rag
• Fake mustache
• Scissors
• Razor

Instructions

Greasepaint Mustache

1. Purchase a cup of black greasepaint.

2. Smear the greasepaint above your upper lip in a thick, rectangular strip using your finger or a rag. Extend it slightly beyond the width of your lips.

3. Examine your mustache in the mirror, and make any touch-ups you feel are necessary. using a clean portion of the rag or a tissue.

Fake Mustache

1. 

   Look for a "Groucho Marx funny mask" at a toy store or costume shop.

   Visit your local toy store or joke shop, or go online, to purchase a fake mustache. Look for a wide, thick mustache or a "Groucho Marx funny mask," which includes glasses, a nose, bushy eyebrows and a mustache.

2. Peel the paper backing off the mustache. Place the mustache above your upper lip. If you purchased a pair of funny nose glasses, put them on.

3. Check in a mirror that your mustache or mask is on properly. Trim the mustache if it appears to be too long or is bothering your lips.

Grow Your Own

1. Let your mustache grow uninhibited, much like Groucho did later in life.

2. Shave your neck, chin and cheeks periodically to ensure that the only hair left is on your upper lip.

3. Check your appearance in the mirror and trim your mustache as needed so that it extends wider than your lips but doesn't hang over or hide them.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for greasepaint at a theatrical supply store or costume shop.

References

• "The Marx Brothers"; Groucho Marx; Stefan Timphus
• "The New York Times"; Groucho Marx; Hal Erickson; 2010
• "The Museum of Broadcast Communications"; Groucho Marx; Dan Streible