Walrus moustache

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The walrus moustache is characterized by whiskers that are thick, bushy, and drop over the mouth. The style resembles the whiskers of a walrus, hence the name.

Video Walrus moustache

History

Reportedly an ethnic trait of Celts and Gauls, the walrus moustache enjoyed immense popularity among men in the latter part of the 19th and early years of the 20th centuries. Gentlemen ranging from scientists to philosophers to politicians often favored the rugged look that the style created.

After falling out of favor in the 1920s it enjoyed a temporary resurgence during the youth counterculture revolution of the 1960s. Today, the walrus moustache can be found on a wide variety of (usually) older men.

Maps Walrus moustache

Styles

In some instances, the facial hair of the walrus moustache not only drops over the mouth but also extends downward at each corner. The hair line may wrap around the cheeks and connect to sideburns the same thickness, as worn by the man they are named for, Ambrose Burnside.

Many men throughout history sported the iconic walrus moustache including actor Wilford Brimley, American president Theodore Roosevelt, American author Mark Twain, rock musician David Crosby, German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, Polish politicians Józef Pi?sudski and Lech Wa??sa, former professional hockey player Lanny McDonald, Soviet leader Josef Stalin, who at times also wore the handlebar moustache. Jamie Hyneman of MythBusters is also known for his walrus moustache, a common source of humor with his co-host Adam Savage.