Today’s name set sits at the intersection of classic, manly and over-the-top. These names push so far into old-time formality that they emerge on the other side with a sense of fun. Picture them with a handlebar mustache, a top hat, and…could that be a wink?
Like the mustaches themselves, most of these names summon images of the second half of the 19th Century. Their origins vary, from classical homages to British surnames. Individually, some may seem a little stuffy, others a little pretentious, eccentric or even goofy. But they share a bold style spirit, while remaining firmly rooted in tradition.
Not everyone is prepared to push classic style this far. Realistically, it takes some confidence to pull off a name like Horatio or Wolfgang. These names are so packed with style they seem larger than life. But if you’re ready to take the leap, they make a memorable impact.
With a twirl of the mustache and a tip of the hat, away we go!
33 Handlebar Mustache Names
Algernon
Aloysius
Ambrose
Balthazar
Barnabas
Barnaby
Bartholomew
Beauregard
Cornelius
Eustace
Everard
Ferdinand
Godfrey
Horatio
Ignatius
Lafayette
Lazarus
Leopold
Llewellyn
Montague
Montgomery
Napoleon
Nicodemus
Peregrine
Philemon
Rollo
Sinclair
Talmadge
Theophilus
Thurston
Tiberius
Ulysses
Valerian
Wolfgang
5 Comments
Well I have met a little Amadeus about age five. Though not British-esque classic style pushed a “little far“ it is going to get some traction, especially since no one upon introduction forgets it, which is a goal of many namers.
My mom is a middle school teacher and had a student named Amadeus last year! Paired with a very Irish surname (think O’Reilly), no less. He seemed to enjoy it!
This is a name style that really works for me, with many that were on our long list of serious contenders. Ambrose, Balthazar, Bartholomew, Ferdinand, Leopold and Philemon are particular favorites. I have met a Peregrine and it quickly felt very normal — and I think many have escape in easy familiar if not always common nicknames, like Perry, Leo, Phil.
Valerian is one I am really surprised hasn’t caught on more broadly, especially as Valeria has skyrocketed.
I know someone whose nickname in college was Cornelius, and while I think it was originally pinned on him as a deliberately silly name, it got to sound quite normal and namey on him! He’s kind of a goofy guy, though, so he could pull it off easily. I don’t think I would be shocked by a baby Cornelius. (Although he should be prepared for people to make “corny” jokes!)
Of the list, I had a classmate named Cornelius (not even a nickname!) in highschool and I once had a nextdoor neighbor named Montgomery (who went by Monty).