Robert van Impe,better known as Average Rob,has been named the Antwerp Mustache Club’s mustache of the Year,taking over from Lars Lefeber. This announcement signifies a departure from previous winners, showcasing the club’s updated standards and its desire to connect with a younger audience.

Ronnie Vermeulen, chairman of the Antwerp Mustache Club, explained the reasoning behind the selection. “Average Rob was a logical choice: he can hardly be beaten away from the television screen. So he can make a lot of publicity and our mustache club in the picture to make.Moreover, we wanted again a younger mustache of the year. When we contacted him, he instantly agreed.” Vermeulen emphasized the importance of visibility and engaging with a broader audience.

Unlike some of his predecessors, Average Rob sports a “natural moustache,” according to Vermeulen. “But he mainly has a nice mustache, one natural moustache,” Vermeulen said. “That is a separate category at the championships. The format is not that crucial in itself.Toots Thielemans,who became a must of the year in 1988,only had a very small mustache.” This underscores the club’s appreciation for authenticity and character over elaborate styling.

Average Rob himself shared the story of his celebrated facial hair. “That was a low point in my life and I felt that something was missing. While my mustache grew,everything suddenly started to get better. Pure coincidence of course, but this way my mustache and I started a new chapter together. Initially I was a bit scared: would my girlfriend think it is ugly? But she is a big fan of my visual extra. And kissing is no problem,” he laughed. The mustache, it truly seems, has become an integral part of his identity.

Avoiding the “Desertion” of Frank Deboosere

The Antwerp Mustache Club places meaningful importance on its honorees maintaining their mustaches. Chairman Vermeulen expressed concern over past recipients who had abandoned their facial hair. “Frank Deboosere (Snor of the year in 1994,ed.) Ever has done us. That is desert, we are having a hard time with that.Pure self -denial,” says club chairman Vermeulen.

Vermeulen added, “But Average Rob has already promised that he will certainly not do that. On the contrary: he will cultivate and grow his mustache. although I fear that we are not allowed to hope for beatiful curls.” The club seeks a commitment to the mustache lifestyle from its chosen representatives.

average rob reassured the club of his dedication.”I want to give my mustache every opportunities to develop further,” confirms Average Rob. “Given the rather poor growth of my face hair, a hindenburg mustache (the german government President Paul von Hindenburg had an impressive specimen with curls, ed.) Indeed not being in it. But I leave him neatly, as a mustache really gives a man more character.”

Senior Editor (SE): Dr.Miller, welcome. your expertise in the cultural history of facial hair is renowned. The Antwerp Mustache Club’s recent selection of Robert van Impe, known as “Average Rob,” as their “Mustache of the Year” has sparked considerable interest. Why do you believe this choice is so significant?

dr.Miller (DM): The Antwerp Mustache Club’s decision to crown “Average Rob” is indeed groundbreaking. It signifies a fascinating shift away from the frequently enough-exaggerated, meticulously sculpted facial hair styles typically associated with mustache competitions. This selection underscores a growing appreciation for authenticity and natural aesthetics in male grooming—a move towards embracing individuality rather than adhering to strict standards of perfection. The choice directly challenges the customary ideals surrounding competitive mustache growing, highlighting a trend towards more natural aesthetics.

SE: Previous winners, like Toots Thielemans, had quite different mustaches. How does “Average Rob’s” style compare, and what does this tell us about evolving trends in facial hair aesthetics?

DM: Comparing “Average Rob’s” mustache to past winners like Toots Thielemans reveals a stark contrast. Thielemans, a celebrated musician, sported a much smaller, less flamboyant mustache—a reflection of mid-20th-century fashion. “Average Rob’s” “natural moustache,” as described by the club chairman, represents a conscious departure from the highly styled, frequently enough larger-than-life creations that dominated previous years. This indicates a broader cultural shift where unassuming, natural grooming is celebrated just as much as elaborate, meticulously crafted facial hair. This counters the idea that only carefully manicured and elaborate mustache styles gain recognition.

SE: The article mentions the importance of the honoree maintaining their facial hair. Why is this commitment so crucial to the Antwerp Mustache Club?

DM: the Antwerp Mustache club’s emphasis on maintaining the facial hair underscores the dedication and commitment required. This commitment represents more than just growing a great mustache; it embodies an ethos of consistency, perseverance, and an enduring passion for this unique aspect of personal style. The club values long-term dedication to the chosen aesthetic, showcasing the artistry beyond a single moment in time. It’s a exhibition of an evolving definition of what comprises a triumphant mustache.

SE: The contrast between “Average Rob’s” approach and the concern over past winners abandoning their mustaches, such as Frank Deboosere, highlights a critical aspect of the competition. What does this say about the deeper meaning of these competitions?

DM: The stark contrast between the commitment expected and seen in Average Rob compared to past recipients like Frank Deboosere reveals the dedication required within this community. The concern about past winners abandoning their mustaches highlights a respect for the ongoing commitment and the inherent time and effort involved in cultivating,and maintaining,a noteworthy mustache. These competitions aren’t just about the aesthetic; they encapsulate a commitment to sustained self-expression through a chosen personal style over time, showcasing discipline.

SE: What lasting impact do you foresee from the Antwerp Mustache club’s decision to honor “Average Rob”? What broader cultural trends does this reflect?

DM: The antwerp Mustache Club’s decision to honor “Average Rob” may signal a broader shift in societal expectations of masculinity. it reflects a growing appreciation for authenticity,individuality,and natural aesthetics over rigidly defined ideals of perfection—a significant cultural move towards body positivity and celebrating inherent traits. This approach to evaluating mustaches transcends notions of mere physicality and becomes a reflection of personal grooming philosophies.

SE: What advice would you give to aspiring mustache growers, considering the lessons from “Average Rob’s” success?

DM: For aspiring mustache growers, “Average Rob’s” story offers valuable advice.Embrace your natural features, cultivate a healthy growth habit, and focus on consistency. Remember, a winning mustache isn’t solely based on aesthetics; it’s about character, commitment, and the unwavering dedication to style. Choose a style that suits your face shape and hair texture; there’s a perfect mustache for everyone! Above all, prioritize good grooming practices. A well-maintained mustache can significantly improve appearance and contribute to overall style and well-being.

SE: Thank you, Dr. Miller. This has been enlightening.

DM: My pleasure. The story of “Average Rob” reminds us that true style is not about following trends, but about embracing authenticity and celebrating individuality, even in the seemingly minor detail of a mustache.