The Fu Manchu grows from the corners of the mouth into long, thin strands that hang free below the chin, with the rest of the face shaved. Named after the pulp-fiction villain, it is pure theatre: a costume style that takes the better part of a year to grow honestly. The hanging strands distinguish it from the horseshoe, whose grown bars stay attached to the face. Few styles demand more time for a more deliberate provocation.
Who does it suit?
A costume-grade statement rather than a flattery play; balanced faces carry it best, and long faces should not extend themselves further.
How to maintain it
Shave the surrounding face regularly, condition the strands, and resign yourself to explaining the style at parties.
