Mustache Revival: Gen Z's Facial Hair Trend - Explained!
Is the humble mustache poised for a triumphant return, or is it destined to remain a relic of bygone eras? The resurgence of the mustache, particularly among Gen Z, suggests that this once-maligned facial feature is undergoing a significant makeover, evolving from a symbol of outdated trends to a statement of modern masculinity and nostalgia.
If the 2010s were defined by the pervasive "hipster beard," then the 2020s appear to be embracing the mustache. A quick survey of today's Gen Z stars offers compelling proof. Millennials and Gen Z are revisiting trends from the early 2010s, including indie pop, grunge fashion, and a specific Tumblr aesthetic. This mirroring of past styles isn't entirely new; every generation has a habit of echoing those that came before it.
Consider the case of actor, athlete and influencer, Boone, he is not alone in embracing the facial hair of yesteryear, he joins a growing list of millennial and Gen Z celebrities who are sporting mustaches, signaling a potential resurgence of the trend. This trend isnt just limited to musicians and pop stars; actors, athletes, and influencers are all experimenting with different styles of mustaches.
The mustache's re-emergence can be attributed, in part, to "Movember." Additionally, the "Top Gun mustache" has garnered 3.8 billion views on TikTok and experienced a 3200% increase in Google searches since the movie's release. The mustache is gaining traction among Gen Z as a symbol of masculinity. However, its worth noting that not everyone can pull off the look. Some may find that it suits them, while others may not.
Many believe that Gen Z has a nostalgia problem, taking trends from the late 90s and early 00s and remixing them. However, every generation does this! What i find even more interesting is that this often occurs, whether a generation knowingly mirrors an older generation or not.
The early decades of the 20th century brought another shift, as mustaches came back into fashion as a symbol of modernity and youth. In the late 1800s, facial hair and beards were all the rage, but now, mustaches are making a comeback.
This cultural shift isn't just about aesthetics. It's about how we perceive identity and express ourselves. Trends, even something as simple as facial hair, are reflections of the times. The recent embrace of the mustache could be an attempt to recapture a sense of bygone eras or express a desire for a specific kind of masculinity.
In the 19th century, often referred to as the Victorian era, the mustache enjoyed a golden age. Facial hair, including mustaches, was seen as a symbol of masculinity and status during this time. Fast forward to the early 20th century, and the mustache was again popular as a symbol of modernity and youth.
Let's delve into the influence of the mustache, and examine the forces driving its reappearance. Below is information about the most prominent and influential mustaches in history.
| Mustache Style | Origin | Famous Examples | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Handlebar | Late 19th Century | Rollie Fingers, Friedrich Nietzsche, Salvador Dal | Long, upward-curving tips resembling bicycle handlebars. Requires extensive grooming. |
| The Pencil | 1930s - 1940s | Clark Gable, Errol Flynn, John Waters | Thin, carefully trimmed lines above the upper lip. Often associated with sophistication. |
| The Chevron | 1970s - 1980s | Tom Selleck, Freddie Mercury, Ron Burgundy | Thick, dense mustache that covers the entire upper lip. |
| The Horseshoe | Late 19th Century - Present | Hulk Hogan, Lemmy Kilmister | Thick mustache with vertical extensions down to the jawline, resembling a horseshoe. |
| The Toothbrush | Early 20th Century | Charlie Chaplin, Adolf Hitler (controversial) | Short, rectangular mustache centered above the lip. (Note: Due to its association with historical figures, it often carries negative connotations.) |
The Cultural Context: Nostalgia and the Zeitgeist
The rise of the mustache must also be considered alongside the broader cultural context. The late 2010s witnessed a shift toward a particular aesthetic, and this nostalgia continues in different forms in the 2020s. The "hipster beard" of the previous decade, while undeniably popular, eventually lost some of its appeal. The mustache, with its inherent association with retro styles, may now offer a new alternative, catering to an audience that values individuality and a touch of retro flair. The trends that are currently re-emerging also include a focus on the middle parts, and the wolf cut.
The Social Media Influence: Viral Trends and the "Top Gun" Effect
Social media platforms like TikTok are playing a vital role in the mustache's comeback. The "Top Gun" mustache, specifically, has enjoyed immense popularity, racking up billions of views. The film's release ignited a renewed interest in this classic look. The visual nature of these platforms means that trends spread rapidly, with users inspired by what they see. The speed with which new looks emerge and are shared creates a constant cycle of influence and imitation.
The Perception of Masculinity: Evolving Ideals
The return of the mustache is closely tied to changing ideas of masculinity. During the 19th century, facial hair was seen as a symbol of masculinity. In the 2020s, Gen Z appears to be revisiting the mustache trend, which may signify a move away from more effeminate trends.
Individual Expression and Identity
Ultimately, the resurgence of the mustache is a testament to the ongoing human desire for self-expression. Whether adopting a handlebar, a pencil, or a chevron, individuals use their facial hair to communicate their personality and embrace their unique identity.
In conclusion, the future of the mustache appears to be bright. As the trend continues to evolve, we can expect to see further experimentation with styles and a continued embrace of this unique and expressive facial feature. The mustache's comeback is a testament to the cyclical nature of fashion and culture, reminding us that what was once considered outdated can become stylish once more. Only time will tell if this is a lasting trend, but, for now, the mustache is back.
5,729 Happy Gen Z Stock Photos Free & Royalty Free Stock Photos from
Generation Z by grow a mustache on DeviantArt
How the TikToker who reenacts scenes from your favorite movies keeps
