The Dirtbag Moustache
The so-called "dirtbag moustache" has seen a mass resurgence in popularity in recent years, especially amongst the A-list celebrity crowd. The casual, rugged fashion of this style of facial hair resonates with a rebellious and bohemian attitude of the wearer. The new stylistic wave has swept through all forms of popular culture, from well-known sleazebags to picture-perfect poster boys. In keeping with ideas of simplicity and aesthetic minimalism, this trend requires the least amount of effort, but for the maximum amount of rebellious edge.
Jacob Elordi at the Bottega Veneta RTW Spring 2025 show during Milan Fashion Week. Courtesy of Getty Images / via Vogue
This unkempt style of facial hair may seem a bit out of place in modern society, where everywhere you look are immaculately-sculpted beards to show off the pristine cleanliness of the wearer. These 'dirtbag moustaches' transcend this, resonating with a scruffy, ungroomed persona which resonates with rockstars, rebels, and non-A list Hollywood celebrities in general. So, why has this new trend caught the attention of so many well-known celebrities?
In its direct lineage, the predominant trendsetter could be none other than James Franco. The Hollywood actor first started sporting the trendy moustache in his 2012 film Spring Breakers. Posing as a renowned drug dealer, this choice of facial hair effectively captured the unruly, uncontrollable nature of his character, particularly when coupled with his questionable tattoos and Post Malone-esque cornrows and grills. As an origin story, it seems hardly connected to the present day where respectable celebrities and icons are rocking a similar look. But perhaps that is the fashionability of the dirtbag moustache. It is completely interchangeable, giving character and edginess to top-rate drug dealers and Hollywood actors alike. It reflects the uncanny ability of this little growth of facial hair to give off a dual personality: a heartthrob on the television screen, but also the potential to be seen at a local bar asking for spare change.
When not solely worn by itself, the dirtbag moustache is often coupled with a similarly outlandish hairstyle that has seen a rapid rise in popularity in recent years. It is, of course, the mullet. Bred from a lockdown world where a barber shop haircut was not an option, and the desire to look smart and professional was non-existent, the mullet soon took on a personality of its own. It symbolized a rebellious and youthful spirit of the wearer, going against the grain to imprint a mark of personality in their appearance. It is just the same with the dirtbag moustache, just in a different location. Comedian and podcaster Theo Von perfectly encapsulates the unique combination of these two styles. It gives him an edgy yet charismatic look which, whilst not immediately eye-catching, is sure to leave its mark. It is also inherently likeable and filled with character, a perfect fusion of any stylistic choice. These types of unconventional hairstyles give off a strong air of confidence, of going against social conformity, and a general impression of unconcerned indifference.
The dirtbag moustache transcends its position as a style of facial hair: it is a reflection of one’s lifestyle and personality. For that reason, it appears that it is here to stay. With the reemergence of so-called Lad culture, the dirtbag moustache is likely to grow in trendiness even more. It is rugged, it embraces freedom, and it doesn’t conform to the pressures of our well-groomed society. With the most prominent of actors and celebrities bucking the trend, there is every reason that you will begin to see it any time you leave the house. After all, if they can do it and look cool, why can’t you?
