bushnstache: Hirsute

“Elbows forward… just a touch,” Bob said. “I want that edge—and the shadows just off you.”

Alan held steady. “You seeing it?”

Bob watched the light trace him, every hair catching.

“Yeah,” he said. “You’re glowing.”

A beat. “…as am I,” he added under his breath. “Woof.”

1. Alan Arnold (on set)

Hirsute feels like a natural extension of the bush—men simply letting their bodies be what they were. No trimming, no shaping, no second thought. Just hair.

2. Dick Dene (that smirk)

3. Joe Canoli (repose)

4. Unknown Model (I think this is from Playgirl?)

This look runs through the whole era—from early Mizer to Champion Studio, Playgirl, and Colt—so clearly it held its appeal. Today, it shows up again in its own way, especially in Bear culture, but back then it felt less like a statement and more like a sign: this is a grown man.

5. Richard Gunning (welcome wagon)

6. Jimmy Hakim (hello!)

7. Joe and John Benson (twins on the deck)

For me, it goes back to those first signs—chest hair, a bit of beard, everything coming in at its own pace. Some had it early, some of us took our time. But once it’s there… well, if you haven’t hugged a hirsute man--shirtless, I’m not sure you can hold onto your gay card.

8. Anthony Page (in the bathroom)