Flipping up the drop bars been done since the 60's. Some people just like a more upright riding position without giving up the speed of a road bike. Plus they get the leverage to jump curbs and whatnot...makes it easier to talk to the chicks too and keep your balance at ultra slow speeds...lol...without having to buy or make new handlebars.
Seen some nice custom or rebent dropbars with the drop bends flared out 30° to 45° for a natural handshake grip instead of the usual straight up and down dropbars. For some traditionalists, they may not like the "flared out" look, but the riders say it's more comfy over long distances if you are in the drops a lot. It doesn't seem to be that much wider when you get up close and look at it.