15 Best Ivy League Haircuts for Men

A textured ivy league haircut can be an excellent option for many gents. For men with thick hair, a textured cut can break things up, so you don’t look like a Lego figurine. For those with thin hair, it can add bounce and keep things from appearing too flat and limp. Also, no matter your hair type, a textured ivy league cut will always look contemporary and cool.

Ivy League Haircut

• Chris Wright
• January 3, 2023

The Ivy League haircut is a stylish variation of the crew cut. Also known as the Harvard or Princeton haircut, the Ivy League cut is a combination of the crew cut’s short hair and the side part’s slick, side swept style. Ultimately, the men’s Ivy League hairstyle is the perfect look for guys wanting a trendy, yet classy style.

If your curious about this modern gentleman’s haircut and want to see the best examples of the Ivy League in action, our guide will help you get this look at the barbershop. Whether you want a short or long Ivy League cut on top paired with a fade or taper on the sides, here are the best Ivy League haircuts for men to get right now.

• 1 What Is The Ivy League Haircut?
• 2 How To Cut An Ivy League Haircut
• 3 How To Style An Ivy League Haircut
• 4 The Best Ivy League Haircuts
  • 4.1 Short Tapered Sides + Messy Top
  • 4.2 Low Taper Fade + Textured Crew Cut
  • 4.3 Side Swept Ivy League
  • 4.4 Thick Crew Cut + Scissor Cut Sides and Back
  • 4.5 Textured Ivy League Cut
  • 4.6 Short Spiky Ivy League
  • 4.7 Longer Sides + Messy Textured Hair
  • 4.8 Long Ivy League + Side Swept Fringe + Beard

  What Is The Ivy League Haircut?

  The Ivy League haircut is really just cut the same way as a crew cut. However, the Princeton haircut differentiates itself by leaving more hair at the top of the head, allowing men to part and sweep their hair to the side. To avoid cutting your hair too short, your barber will likely use scissors instead of clippers when trimming the hair on top.

  

  Given its sharp, clean and professional style, the Harvard clip makes for a great business hairstyle. Moreover, college guys absolutely love the Ivy League cut because of its easy, low-maintenance styling that goes with any look or outfit.

  

  How To Cut An Ivy League Haircut

  Since the Ivy League cut is generally a short hairstyle for men, it is really easy to get. The haircut only requires about an inch or two of hair length on top and maybe a fade on the sides. We highly recommend visiting your barbershop with at least 2 inches of hair when trying to get a short Ivy League haircut; although, you could always try for a long cut that may require 3 inches of hair to work with.

  

  You’ll also need some quality hair product for styling purposes. We recommend a pomade, wax or putty for a clean matte or high shine finish.

  When discussing the Ivy League style with your barber or stylist, it’s always helpful to have a picture, so be sure to bookmark this page or save the image of your favorite cut. If you have to describe the way you want your hair cut, the most important aspects to discuss are:

  • how short the top should be,
  • the type of fade you want on the sides and back,
  • and how long you want to leave the front.

  Remember, longer hair in the front will help you brush back or part your hair, the most noteworthy part of Ivy League hair.

  

  As for the sides and back, the type of fade you choose (high vs. low vs. bald) and the length of hair you leave is all about personal style. We recommend shorter hair on the sides, so ask your barber for a clipper setting of #1 to #4.

  

  How To Style An Ivy League Haircut

  Since the Ivy League is a low-maintenance, short men’s haircut, it is very easy to style. To style the Ivy League cut, apply some hair product and use a comb or your fingers to create a side part, brush up, or brush back. You can even choose to leave the hair on top messy for a more natural look. In the end, styling the Ivy League haircut may be one of the simplest hairstyles you’ll ever have!

  

  The Best Ivy League Haircuts

  If you’re interested in checking out more Ivy League hairstyles for men, we’ve compiled the best collection of cuts and styles below, and we hope you find the right short or long style for you!

  Short Tapered Sides + Messy Top

  

  Low Taper Fade + Textured Crew Cut

  

  Side Swept Ivy League

  

  Thick Crew Cut + Scissor Cut Sides and Back

  

  Textured Ivy League Cut

  

  Short Spiky Ivy League

  

  Longer Sides + Messy Textured Hair

  

  Long Ivy League + Side Swept Fringe + Beard

  

  

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  15 Best Ivy League Haircuts for Men

  

  When it comes to achieving a sleek and stylish look, there’s no better hairstyle than an ivy league. This dapper cut has been around for decades and is still incredibly appealing for gents. Thanks to its preppy yet cool aesthetic, the polished hairstyle can look just as good at the office as it does at the bar. So, if you’re after a fresh cut that’ll never let you down, be sure to consider this timeless option. Of course, you’ll need some inspiration on how you can rock the look in a way that suits your personality. Thankfully, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best ivy league haircuts for men from which you can choose.

  Ivy League Haircut vs Crew Cut

  Many men get confused between ivy league haircuts and crew cuts, and it’s easy to understand why. After all, the two styles appear highly similar. In fact, an ivy league cut is a type of crew cut. But, while both hairstyles are dapper and smart, they do have their differences. Although both are typically tapered on the sides with a slightly longer length on top, the ivy league is generally longer all over. Additionally, thanks to its longer length on top, the ivy league can be combed into a neat side part. The traditional crew cut, on the other hand, is cropped so short that the hairs stand straight up and aren’t able to be combed over.

  

  Ivy League Haircuts

  Classic Ivy League Haircut

  Originating in American Ivy League schools, the classic ivy league haircut is smart and polished. Also known as a Princeton cut or Harvard clip, the style features neatly tapered sides with a top that’s just long enough to style into a side part.

  

  Textured Ivy League Haircut

  A textured ivy league haircut can be an excellent option for many gents. For men with thick hair, a textured cut can break things up, so you don’t look like a Lego figurine. For those with thin hair, it can add bounce and keep things from appearing too flat and limp. Also, no matter your hair type, a textured ivy league cut will always look contemporary and cool.

  

  Short Ivy League Haircut

  If you like a cropped hairstyle, you should consider a short ivy league cut. Due to its length, the short ivy league is similar to a traditional crew cut, however, in keeping with the style, it is subtly combed to the side. The result is a short and stylish men’s cut that looks great and is easy to style.

  

  Medium Length Ivy League Haircut

  For a flattering and stylish look, a medium ivy league haircut makes a fantastic choice. To rock the look, ask your barber to leave about an inch of hair on top. Doing so will provide enough length for you to easily style your hair to one side after washing.

  

  Long Ivy League Haircut

  Long ivy league haircuts can make very flattering choices for men. Thanks to its extra length on top, this cut appears more fashion-forward and eye-catching than its shorter counterparts. Additionally, with longer strands on top, you’ll have more freedom to switch up your style. So, whether you want a sleek ivy league look or a voluminous, quiffed ivy league style, you’ll be able to create it. But remember, if you let your hair grow too long, it won’t be an ivy league cut at all.

  

  Modern Ivy League Haircut

  For a modern interpretation of the classic ivy league haircut, try to infuse your look with an effortless style. To do so, go for a medium to long length with a little texture. Anything too neat and tidy will read as traditional, so be sure to leave your hair a bit relaxed for an excellent modern take on this timeless style.

  

  Ivy League Haircut with Fade

  To keep your ivy league haircut looking neat and on-trend, consider asking your barber for a fade. A fade will gradually reduce the length of the hair on the sides and the back of your head. As such, the hair around your ears will be neatly cropped while still transitioning smoothly into a longer length at the top of your head.

  

  Side Part Ivy League Haircut

  While all ivy league haircuts are swept to the side, some have more defined parts than others. To make your part stand out, try styling your hair while wet. To do so, first, comb your hair backward. Then, use a fine comb to create a straight part on one side, brushing the hair on either side away. Finally, either let your hair dry naturally or blow-dry it to add extra volume.

  

  Ivy League Undercut Hairstyle

  Want to make your ivy league haircut wow? Consider adding an undercut to the mix. Although ivy league cuts typically have shorter sides and a slightly longer top, an undercut can take this look to the next level. Thanks to its contrast, an ivy league undercut hairstyle appears eye-catching and impressive.

  

  Curly Ivy League Hairstyle

  There’s no need to miss out on a killer ivy league haircut just because your locks are curly. While traditional ivy league styles are smooth and straight, the cut can work surprisingly well with curly hair. To nail the look, just pick the length that works best for you. While a shorter cut will work well for light waves, a lengthier cut, such as one with an inch or two on top, is perfect for showing off full, bouncy curls.

  

  Ivy League Haircut with Hard Part

  Today, there are more varieties of the classic ivy league cut than ever before. As such, you can make yours as subtle or as bold as you like. If you lean toward the latter, why not consider switching out the traditional side part for a hard part instead? A hard part, which is a shaved line used to part the hair, can be very visually impactful and give your overall appearance a real boost.

  

  Messy Ivy League Haircut

  Not all ivy league haircuts have to be perfectly polished. For a modern take on the style, a messy ivy league look works incredibly well. Just as stylish as the original but with much more attitude, this look is ideal for men who like an appearance that’s relaxed without being unkempt.

  

  Asian Ivy League Haircut

  The ivy league haircut can look good on all gents. But, it works exceptionally well with traditional Asian hair textures. As Asian hair is often smooth and straight, it lends itself perfectly to the polished preppy style of the ivy league. Of course, you can always add texture with hair products if you want yours to look more youthful than elegant.

  

  Ivy League Haircut for Round Face

  Thanks to its proportions, the ivy league haircut can look great on gents with round face shapes. The combination of tapered sides and a longer length on top visually lengthens the face for a more flattering appearance. If you like, you can even add more volume up high to enhance the effects.

  

  Ivy League Haircut for Receding Hairline

  An ivy league haircut can make an excellent choice for gents with receding hairlines. As well as being stylish, this cut will help disguise your receding hairline. All you need to do is start your side part at the corner of your hairline that’s least receding. Then, comb your hair to the side to help cover the section of your hairline that’s receded the most.

  

  FAQs

  How do I ask for an Ivy League haircut?

  More often than not, if you head to a barber and ask for an ivy league cut, they’ll know what you mean. Of course, it never hurts to be vigilant to ensure you get the look you want. For a regular ivy league haircut, make sure your hair measure at least an inch and a half before heading to your barber. Once in the chair, request that your barber uses scissors, not clippers, to cut the top of your hair. Ideally, you want to be left with between half an inch and an inch on top with the front a little longer. When it comes to the sides and back, ask for a gradual taper using anything between a number two and four clipper guard size.

  How long is an Ivy League haircut?

  The length at the top is always short (i.e. less than 2 inches) that can then be styled; typically, an Ivy League haircut will have the crown at 0.5-1 inch in length while the front is longer and up to 1.5 inches in length (hence the top is tapered by up to 1 inch depending on what you choose for the front and crown).

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