Imperial Mustache Styles: How to Grow and Shape the Classic Look

Few mustaches are quite as iconic as the Imperial mustache. It’s one of the few styles that people recognize instantly without knowing its name. Thick, slightly bushy, and with a royal flick at the corners, it takes everything you know about a handlebar mustache and dials the masculinity up to 11.

Named for its connection to Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany, it became one of the boldest styles in the mid to late 1800s. The ultimate mark of status, masculinity, and authority — and who are we to disagree? 

In an age when men are rediscovering their roots, the Imperial mustache is making a resurgence. But many have forgotten how to grow it. That’s where we come in.

What is an Imperial Mustache?

The Imperial mustache is not for the fainthearted. It harkens to an era of bold, determined men who commanded respect. Its grand, commanding appearance was befitting an empire’s ruler.

But what exactly is an Imperial mustache? Well, the style has three core features:

1. Full, thick growth above the upper lip. The Imperial is bold and substantial. No patchy or pencil-thin strands here. It’s a statement piece.
2. Upturned, curled ends. The tips are trained or waxed upward into elegant arcs, creating a distinguished and confident shape that draws attention.
3. Disconnected from other facial hair. Unlike styles that blend into a beard or goatee, the Imperial stands alone — clean cheeks and chin keep all the focus on the mustache itself.

Remember, it’s not some twee handlebar mustache you’d find on a hipster barman. There are no dainty, wispy little ends. The Imperial is like a stein of German lager — full-bodied and unforgettable.

Who Should Grow an Imperial Mustache?

Unlike for beards, each mustache style is more accessible to men. That being said, this distinctive style is certainly not for everyone. 

First, it’s reserved for men with a thick, dense mustache. Like its cousin, the Walrus mustache, it relies on fullness and volume for that sweeping, upturned shape. If you’ve got a patchy upper lip — sorry, it’s not for you.

Next, you’ve got to have the confidence to pull it off. The Imperial mustache captures people’s attention. If you’re unafraid of being noticed, it’s the right pick. You’ve also got to be committed to grooming and detail. It requires daily waxing and shaping, training the hairs into the perfect curl.

In terms of face shapes, it suits men who have an oval, rectangular, or heart-shaped face. The mustache’s volume highlights the jaw and cheekbones without overwhelming them. On square faces, it can look a little lost and isolated (though certain variations can work). 

And lastly, it pairs well with a vintage look. If you’re a fan of a well-tailored suit (or 19th-century German military attire), then consider the Imperial.

5 Imperial Mustache Styles

You don’t need to be a 19th-century emperor to pull one off — though it’ll probably make you feel like one. 

The Imperial mustache has found new life among young and middle-aged men who want a little of that old-school world when confidence and masculinity were badges to be proud of. 

Not sure which Imperial mustache style to go for? Here are 5 of our favorites:

1. The Classic Imperial

The original statement piece.

Thick, full, and curled skyward with wax. It’s a look that commands attention without saying a word. Best for guys who enjoy old-school rituals: comb, wax, mirror, and a few quiet minutes to get it just right.

2. The Imperial Handlebar Mustache

Add a little whimsy and playfulness to the precision. The ends are curled into tighter, more deliberate loops: bold but not over-the-top. Great if you like turning heads, whether at work, on a night out, or anywhere you fancy a bit of drama.

Read More: The Definitive Handlebar Mustache Guide: How to Grow and Style It

3. The Small Imperial Mustache

For those who prefer subtlety. You keep the signature shape and gentle upward flick, but with less volume. It’s sharp, elegant, and easy to maintain. 

A smart entry point if you’re growing your first real statement mustache.

4. The Imperial Mustache Beard Combo

The Imperial mustache beard walks that line between sharp and rugged — serious up top, laid-back underneath. Pair the upturned mustache with a short beard or stubble to balance flair with everyday wearability.

Think of this as the beardstache-plus. Like Henry Cavill in Mission Impossible meets Kaiser Wilhelm II. 

5. The Natural Imperial

Let it grow and curve on its own, no heavy wax required. 

It’s relaxed, a bit roguish, and feels effortlessly cool. More artist-in-a-loft than colonial officer, it gives a creative touch to the stern masculinity — Ernest Hemingway meets Salvador Dalí. Perfect for men who want character without perfectionism.

How to Grow an Imperial Mustache

Thinking of trying it for yourself? While it’s a little adventurous (and slightly on the difficult side), the Imperial Mustache is definitely achievable.

You’ll need around 16-24 weeks of growth to get the best results. Most of that growth is at the sides, keeping the central portion of the mustache a little shorter.

Overall, it needs to be around 3-6 inches in length, depending on how dramatic you want the curl.

What You’ll Need:

• Patience and precision (seriously!)
• Mustache comb
• Mustache wax
• Trimming scissors

What To Do:

1. Let it grow — and be patient. The Imperial needs length and fullness to achieve those signature curls. Give yourself at least 6–8 weeks of uninterrupted growth. Resist trimming the ends during this stage; shaping too early can stunt the curl potential.
2. Keep the rest of your face tidy. Shave or neatly trim your cheeks and chin so the mustache stands out. Even if you plan to pair it with a beard later, a clean outline helps the mustache develop its shape.
3. Train the direction of your hair. As it grows, use a fine-toothed comb to brush the hairs outward from the philtrum (center) toward the sides, a few times a day. This teaches the mustache to sweep naturally into that Imperial arc.
4. Introduce wax gradually. Once you’ve got length (usually around 1 inch beyond the corners of your mouth), start applying a small amount of mustache wax. Warm it between your fingers, then twist and shape the ends upward.
5. Perfect your curl. For that classic upturned Imperial style, use your thumb and forefinger to roll the ends into soft curls. Don’t overdo it! It should look confident, not cartoonish.

Beard Sorcery isn’t just about beardcraft. We love a well-trimmed, honed, and precise mustache. Our products are crafted to work as beautifully on your upper lip as they do on your chin. Made with 100% pure beeswax, premium shea butter, and a blend of nourishing natural oils, our mustache wax delivers a smooth, controlled hold that lasts all day.