The Mistakes Men Make When Growing a Moustache (And How to Avoid Them)

At the recent Golden Globes, the fashion choices of A-list celebrities were scrutinized, and one in particular caught everyone’s eye: Timothée Chalamet’s thin, artsy moustache. It’s part of a growing trend among younger men, particularly Gen Z, who are sporting modest moustaches that harken back to the styles of the 1970s, though with a modern, relaxed twist.

Chalamet’s whiskers, which have drawn comparisons to the “gorgeous eyelashes on his upper lip,” as host Nikki Glaser joked, are among the many sleek and subtle ‘staches we’re seeing more of today. In fact, other young stars like Paul Mescal, Jacob Elordi, and Harry Styles have also jumped on the trend, sporting moustaches that blend nostalgia with a laid-back approach.

This shift is also noticeable in the UK and beyond, with barbers like Jase Aldridge of Well Groomed in East London reporting a surge in men asking for moustache trims, often inspired by vintage sports figures from the 70s and 80s. These days, men are embracing more relaxed, shaggy looks, moving away from the sharper styles of previous decades.

However, growing a moustache isn’t as simple as it seems. If you’re new to the trend, you may make a few common mistakes. Radio One DJ Greg James recently shared his three-week moustache journey on social media, only to admit defeat and shave it off after a frustrating period of awkward growth. He was trying to channel Chalamet’s look, but the truth is, a full, thick moustache takes more than a few weeks to grow in.

According to Refat Meshed, a stylist at Geo F Trumper, a proper moustache needs at least five weeks to truly develop before it’s thick enough for shaping and styling. He cautions that a moustache at the three-week mark is too thin to manage effectively. Meshed’s advice? “Patience is key,” he says, especially when it comes to styling a moustache that fits your face and personality.

For those who want to take a more controlled approach, he suggests starting with a full beard and then gradually trimming it back until you’re left with a defined moustache. This step-by-step method makes the transition smoother and less shocking.

Once the growth is in full swing, maintenance becomes relatively easy. Meshed advises trimming the corners of your mouth and upper lip with scissors, and using a little wax to tame stray hairs. The trick is to keep it neat and refined—after all, a well-groomed moustache is about balance. Too much styling, and it risks looking sleazy instead of sleek.

With more men joining the moustache movement, from trendy celebrities to everyday gents, it’s clear that facial hair is back in fashion. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle style like Chalamet or a fuller, classic look, the key is to be patient, avoid common mistakes, and stay consistent with upkeep.