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What’s This About
The Ivy League haircut is a short, neat cut with close sides and enough length on top to part, and these 15 variations show how to adapt it to your hair and the look you want.
This guide covers the choices that shape the result.
How long to keep the top, from the classic cut’s short, partable top to the Long Ivy League
Fade, taper or hard part at the sides
Lifting a longer top for height or letting it fall forward or to the side
Which variations suit curly, fine or thinning hair
and many more!
We also cover the styling products and techniques for each variation.
Key Points
01Face-shape notes are options for the effect you want, not rules.
02Lifting a longer top adds height; letting it fall forward or to the side keeps the outline lower.
03Hair texture and density decide how each variation sits, so tell your barber how your hair behaves.
04A fade or taper needs regular trims to stay crisp, whatever you do with the top.
The Ivy League haircut, also known as the Harvard Clip or the Princeton, is a classic old-money hairstyle, with the hair at the front long enough to part at the side and the crown cut short.
Photographs from the 1950s and 1960s show it on Cornell rowers and Yale students, and it has since become a staple for men who like a polished yet effortless look.
Explore all face shapes and style ideas
Whether you’re a student aiming for that academic aesthetic or a professional seeking a sharp, low-maintenance style, the Ivy League haircut is worth considering.
In this guide, we’ll explore 15 Ivy League haircut variations, from the classic Harvard Clip to modern interpretations, with notes on face shape, hair type and upkeep so you can choose the cut for the look you want.
1. Classic Ivy League Haircut
The classic Ivy League haircut, or the Princeton, is the version every other cut here starts from.
This timeless look features short, neatly trimmed sides and back, with slightly longer hair on top; one version Wikipedia describes runs from about 1 1/2 inches (4 cm) at the front hairline to 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) at the crown.
The longer top allows for a side parting, creating that distinguished, scholarly appearance.
This old-money haircut is an option for oval, square and diamond face shapes.
The clean lines echo angular features, if you like that effect.
Regarding men’s body shapes, no body type selects a haircut; the classic Ivy League is simply a neat, short shape that sits easily alongside tailored, structured outfits on any build, if that overall look appeals to you.
Regarding hair texture, the classic Ivy League is most suited to those with straight or slightly wavy hair of medium to thick density.
The additional volume on top can help elongate rounder face shapes while the short sides maintain a neat, professional look.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Square, Diamond
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, Rectangle
Styling Tip
Start with damp hair and apply a small amount of pomade. Create a neat side parting and comb the top hair to the side, styling the front slightly upward for a subtle quiff effect.
For a modern twist, ask your barber for slightly more length on top to create a relaxed, textured style perfect for casual weekend looks.
2. Textured Ivy League Haircut
The Textured Ivy League haircut is a modern interpretation of the classic collegiate style.
This contemporary version maintains the sophisticated essence of the traditional cut while introducing a more relaxed, effortless vibe.
The signature short sides and back remain, but the longer top section boasts added depth and movement.
This variation of the academic cut is an option for round, heart-shaped or oval faces. The added texture on top creates visual interest, and lifting it adds height that can make a rounder face look longer, if you want that.
The Textured Ivy League cut’s tousled finish adds a casual, youthful note to an outfit whatever your build; if you are also reading about lean and athletic body types, treat any pairing as an overall-look preference rather than a rule.
The Textured Ivy League excels in its ability to accommodate various hair textures.
While the classic Princeton Cut favours straight hair, this modern version is a boon for men with wavy or slightly curly locks.
Even those with finer hair benefit from this cut, as the textured styling techniques create the illusion of volume and fullness.
Face shapes to consider. Round, Heart, Oval
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Inverted Triangle, Trapezoid
Styling Tip
Begin with damp hair and apply a texturising product such as sea salt spray or mousse. Use your fingers to tousle and lift the hair while blow-drying to add volume and enhance natural texture.
Once dry, work a small amount of matte clay or paste through your hair, focusing on separated, textured strands rather than a smooth, uniform appearance.
Add height while maintaining the Ivy League tradition to style the front into a textured quiff for a bold, confident look.
3. Long Ivy League Haircut
The Long Ivy League haircut is the longest version in this guide.
This variation leaves much more length on top, enough to sweep back or let fall to the side, with shorter sides and back.
This elongated version of the preppy cut is one to try for men with oblong faces if the length is worn falling forward or to the sides, and for diamond or heart-shaped faces.
Worn falling to the sides or forward rather than lifted, the added length on top and at the sides can keep a long face from looking longer; lifted, it adds height instead.
The Long Ivy League’s extra top length adds some visible height at the head; on any build, decide whether that added height suits the overall outline you want, since your height or body type does not decide the haircut.
The Long Ivy League works best with straight to wavy hair of medium to thick density.
The extra length allows for more styling options, from sleek and polished for formal occasions to tousled and relaxed for casual settings.
This adaptability suits men who want a versatile cut that moves from day to night, though the longer top usually needs a few minutes of styling each morning.
Face shapes to consider. Oblong if you let the length fall forward or to the sides rather than lifting it, Diamond, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, Rectangle
Styling Tip
Start with damp hair, apply volumising mousse, create a side part, and blow-dry with a round brush to create volume and shape.
Apply a small amount of pomade or styling cream for a polished look, and comb the hair neatly to the side.
Use your fingers to style for a more casual appearance, creating a slightly dishevelled effect.
4. Ivy League with Fade
The Ivy League with Fade combines the classic top of the Ivy League with a modern fade on the sides and back.
This contemporary twist on the collegiate cut offers a sharp, clean, sophisticated, and edgy look.
The fade can range from a subtle taper to a high skin fade, allowing for personalisation based on individual preferences.
This style is an option for square, oval or diamond-shaped faces. The close sides leave the jaw and cheekbones on show, if you want to emphasise them.
The Ivy League with Fade keeps the sides close and the head outline compact; a haircut cannot change shoulder or waist proportions, so treat any pairing with inverted triangle or trapezoid body shapes as a preference about the overall look.
The Ivy League with Fade works well with all hair textures, from straight to curly.
If you have thicker hair, the fade reduces bulk on the sides, creating a sleek silhouette.
If your hair is finer, you benefit from the illusion of density that the fade creates by contrasting with the fuller top.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, Diamond
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Inverted Triangle, Trapezoid
Styling Tip
Apply a small amount of pomade or styling cream to damp hair. Use a comb to create a neat side part and style the top hair accordingly.
For a more textured look, switch to a matte product and style with your fingers, creating a deliberately tousled appearance.
5. Curly Ivy League Haircut
The Curly Ivy League Haircut is a version of the classic style built around natural curl patterns.
This variation maintains the fundamental structure of the Ivy League, shorter sides and back with a longer top, but allows for more length and volume to accommodate and enhance curly textures.
This hairstyle is an option for oval, heart or diamond-shaped faces.
Curl volume that sits out at the sides adds visible width, while curls left taller on top add height; on a long face, keep the volume at the sides if you want the face to look less long, or let it build on top if you are happy to add length, and the curls can soften angular features if you like that effect.
The Curly Ivy League’s curl volume adds some height and fullness at the head, which changes the overall outline a little whatever your body shape; whether you want that extra volume is a personal choice.
The Curly Ivy League is designed for men with curly or wavy hair; it works well with all curl types, from loose waves to tight coils.
This cut allows the hair’s natural texture to shine, creating a look that’s both sophisticated and full of personality.
For men with thicker, coarser curls, this style helps manage volume while maintaining a polished appearance.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Heart, Diamond
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Oval, Hourglass
Styling Tip
Start with freshly washed, damp hair. Apply a curl-enhancing cream or gel, distributing it evenly through your hair.
Use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer to dry your curls without creating frizz. Alternatively, allow your hair to air dry for a more natural look.
Once dry, use your fingers to gently separate and define curls. Avoid using a comb or brush, as they can disrupt the natural curl pattern and create frizz.
6. Side-parted Ivy League Haircut
The Side-Parted Ivy League Haircut is a refined variation emphasising the original style’s classic, scholarly aesthetic.
This cut features a distinct side part, with the hair on top styled neatly to one side. The sides and back are kept short, creating a clean, polished look.
This style is an option for square, rectangular or oval face shapes. The defined side part adds a straight line that can make a softer outline look more structured, or echo the angles of a more angular one.
The Side-Parted Ivy League gives a neat, groomed line that can sit well with a tailored outfit on any build; it does not change your height or posture, and no body type selects it.
The Side-Parted Ivy League works best with straight to slightly wavy hair of medium density.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Rectangle, Oval
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Rectangle, Trapezoid
Styling Tip
Begin with damp hair and apply a small amount of styling cream or pomade.
Use a fine-toothed comb to create a precise side part. Comb the hair on top neatly to the side, following the direction of the part.
7. Textured Crop Ivy League
The Textured Crop Ivy League is a modern, edgy take on the traditional Ivy League cut.
This style features a shorter top length than the classic version, with added texture for a more contemporary look.
The sides and back are kept short, creating a clean contrast with the textured top.
This style is an option for round, oval or heart-shaped faces.
The added texture on top can make a rounder face look a little longer if you want that, while the short sides keep the face outline on show.
The Textured Crop Ivy League keeps the head outline short and close; it does not alter shoulder width, so any pairing with inverted triangle or trapezoid body types is an overall-look preference rather than a fit rule.
The Textured Crop Ivy League works well with straight, wavy, or slightly curly hair.
It’s an excellent choice for men with fine to medium hair thickness, as the textured styling can create the illusion of fuller, more voluminous hair.
This low-maintenance cut is perfect for those who want a stylish look without spending too much time on daily styling.
Face shapes to consider. Round, Oval, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Inverted Triangle, Trapezoid
Styling Tip
Start with towel-dried hair and apply a small amount of texturising paste or clay.
Work the product through your hair with your fingers, focusing on a separated, textured finish.
8. Ivy League with Hard Part
The Ivy League with Hard Part is a bold, high-contrast variation of the classic cut.
This style incorporates a shaved-in line (the hard part) to create a stark, defined separation between the longer top and the shorter sides.
The result is a sharp, eye-catching look combining traditional elegance and modern edge.
This style is an option for square, rectangular or diamond-shaped faces.
The shaved-in part adds a sharp straight line that echoes angular features, if you like that effect.
The Ivy League with Hard Part’s clean, defined parting gives a polished, put-together finish with any build; body type does not decide whether it suits you.
The Ivy League with Hard Part is best suited for straight to slightly wavy hair of medium to thick density.
The defined part works well with neatly styled hair, allowing for a crisp, clean look.
This style is perfect for men who want to make a statement with their hair while maintaining a professional appearance.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Rectangle, Diamond
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Rectangle, Hourglass
Styling Tip
Begin with damp hair and apply a strong-hold pomade or gel.
Use a fine-toothed comb to create a neat part along the shaved line. Comb the top hair to the side, away from the part.
9. Messy Ivy League
The Messy Ivy League is a relaxed, contemporary take on the traditional cut.
This style maintains the classic Ivy League structure, shorter sides and back with more length on top, but introduces a deliberately tousled, undone look.
The result is a versatile, youthful appearance that balances sophistication with effortless charm.
The tousled top adds texture and some height, an option for oval, heart-shaped or diamond-shaped faces among others if that is the look you want; no body shape, including inverted triangle body shapes, selects it.
The Messy Ivy League works exceptionally well with wavy or slightly curly hair, as these textures naturally lend themselves to a more tousled look.
However, it can be adapted with the proper styling techniques for straight hair.
This cut is ideal for men who want a low-maintenance style that can easily transition from professional to casual settings.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Heart, Diamond
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, Inverted Triangle
Styling Tip
Start with damp hair and apply a sea salt spray or texturising mousse.
Use your fingers to tousle your hair while blow-drying for added volume and texture.
10. Ivy League for Thinning Hair
The Ivy League for Thinning Hair is a skilful adaptation of the classic cut, designed to create the appearance of fuller, thicker hair.
This variation typically features a shorter top length than the traditional Ivy League, with carefully blended sides to minimise the contrast between areas of different hair density.
This style is shown with oval, square and rectangular faces in mind, though with thinning hair your density matters more than your face shape.
The cutting and styling techniques can help create the look of more volume on top.
The Ivy League for Thinning Hair gives a neat, polished finish with any build; what matters here is your hair density and how the top is cut to look fuller, not your body type.
This variation of the Ivy League is specifically designed for men with fine or thinning hair.
It works with the natural growth patterns and remaining hair density to create a smart, professional look that doesn’t draw attention to areas of thinning.
This cut is perfect for men who want to maintain a classic, refined style while addressing concerns about hair thinning.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Square, Rectangle
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Rectangle, Trapezoid
Styling Tip
Begin with clean, towel-dried hair. Apply a volumising mousse to the roots, focusing on areas where you want to create the appearance of more fullness.
11. Long Top Ivy League
The Long Top Ivy League is a bold, modern interpretation of the classic cut, and it sits shorter than the Long Ivy League Haircut described above.
This style keeps the top clearly longer than the classic cut but shorter than the Long Ivy League, with the traditional short sides and back; choose it for extra length without going as long.
The additional length on top allows for more versatile styling options, from sleek and polished to textured and voluminous.
This style is one to try for diamond or heart-shaped faces, and for oblong faces if the length falls forward or to the side.
Lifted upward, the extra length on top adds height and makes a long face look longer, while letting it fall forward or to the side keeps the outline lower; choose the direction for the effect you want, and the looser movement can soften angular features if you prefer that.
The Long Top Ivy League adds length and height on top, which changes the head’s outline whatever your build. It does not alter shoulder width, so treat any body-shape pairing as a preference about the overall look.
The Long Top Ivy League works best with straight to wavy hair of medium to thick density.
This cut allows for various styling options, making it ideal for men who enjoy experimenting with different looks.
It’s perfect for those who want to maintain the classic Ivy League aesthetic while trying more contemporary styling.
Face shapes to consider. Oblong if you let the length fall forward or to the sides rather than lifting it, Diamond, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, Inverted Triangle
Styling Tip
Start with damp hair and apply a volumising mousse or sea salt spray. Use a blow dryer and round brush to create volume and shape in the longer top section.
For a sleek look, apply a small amount of pomade and comb the hair back or to the side.
Use matte clay and style with your fingers for a more textured appearance, creating movement and separation.
12. Ivy League with Fringe
The Ivy League with Fringe combines the classic short sides and neat top of the Ivy League cut with a modern, eye-catching fringe.
This variation maintains the traditional style’s short sides and back but features a longer top section styled forward to create a distinctive fringe.
The result is a youthful, contemporary look that reflects the cut’s preppy origins.
This style is an option for square, oval or heart-shaped faces. On a square face, the fringe adds softer movement above an angular jaw, and on a heart-shaped face it covers some of the broader forehead.
The Ivy League with Fringe brings hair forward over the forehead, an effect on the face rather than the body, so no body type selects it.
It adds a touch of edge to the overall look.
The Ivy League with Fringe works well with straight to slightly wavy hair.
It’s particularly beneficial for men with high foreheads or receding hairlines, as the fringe can be styled to cover these areas.
This cut offers a perfect blend of classic and contemporary, ideal for those who want to make a subtle statement with their hairstyle.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Rectangle, Oval
Styling Tip.
Begin with damp hair and apply a light-hold styling cream. Use a blow dryer and a paddle brush to dry the fringe forward and slightly to the side.
Once dry, use your fingers to separate the fringe into strands for a textured look or comb it neatly for a more polished appearance.
13. Ivy League with Taper
The Ivy League with Taper is a refined variation that combines the classic top of the Ivy League with a gradual taper on the sides and back.
This style offers a more subtle transition from the longer top to the shorter sides compared to a fade, resulting in a polished, versatile look suitable for various professional and casual settings.
This style is an option for oval, diamond or triangle face shapes.
The gradual taper avoids a hard line at the sides, giving a softer finish than a high fade while keeping a clean, structured appearance.
The Ivy League with Taper gives a gradual, tidy transition at the sides and neckline. It looks sleek with any build, and body type does not decide whether it suits you.
The Ivy League with Taper works well with all hair textures, from straight to curly.
It’s an excellent choice for men who want a low-maintenance style that retains a sharp, put-together appearance.
This cut offers the versatility of the classic Ivy League with an added touch of modern sophistication.
Face shapes to consider. Oval, Diamond, Triangle
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Rectangle, Trapezoid
Styling Tip.
Start with damp hair and apply a small amount of styling cream. Use a comb to create a side part and style the top hair accordingly.
For a classic look, comb the top hair neatly to the side. Use your fingers to style for a more relaxed appearance, creating a slightly tousled effect.
Book a trim about every 2 to 3 weeks to keep the taper crisp.
14. Asymmetrical Ivy League
The Asymmetrical Ivy League is a daring, contemporary take on the classic cut.
This style features a longer length on one side of the top, creating an intentional imbalance that adds edge and personality to the traditional Ivy League look.
The sides and back are kept short, emphasising the asymmetrical top.
This bold style is an option for square, oval or heart-shaped faces.
The uneven top draws the eye upward and away from the jaw, if you want that effect.
The Asymmetrical Ivy League’s uneven top adds a touch of avant-garde flair whatever your build; treat any pairing with inverted triangle or trapezoid body shapes as a preference about the overall look rather than a rule.
The Asymmetrical Ivy League works best with straight to slightly wavy hair of medium to thick density.
This cut is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their hairstyle while maintaining a connection to the classic Ivy League aesthetic.
It’s ideal for creative professionals or anyone looking to inject personality into their look.
Face shapes to consider. Square, Oval, Heart
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Inverted Triangle, Trapezoid
Styling Tip
Begin with damp hair and apply a texturising product. Use a blow dryer to create volume, focusing on the longer side.
Style the longer side dramatically to one side, either sleekly with a comb or more textured with your fingers. Keep the shorter side neat and close to the head.
15. Ivy League Pompadour
The Ivy League Pompadour combines the classic structure of the Ivy League with the volume and drama of a pompadour.
This style features short sides and back, with significantly more length on top styled upwards and backwards to create height and movement.
The result is a bold, eye-catching look that merges vintage charm with modern sophistication.
If you have a round or heart-shaped face and want it to look longer, the added height on top is one way to do that; it is an option rather than a requirement.
On an already long, oblong face, the same height only works well if more elongation is the look you actually want; if not, keep the front height modest and retain fuller sides.
The Ivy League Pompadour’s dramatic height adds a touch of retro glamour and some visible height to the overall outline whatever your build; body type does not select it.
The Ivy League Pompadour works best with straight to wavy hair of medium to thick density.
This cut is ideal for those who enjoy spending time styling their hair and want a versatile look that can be adapted for both formal and casual occasions.
It’s perfect for men who want to make a bold statement while maintaining a connection to classic styling.
Face shapes to consider. Round, Heart, or Oblong if you want extra length (otherwise keep the front height modest and the sides fuller)
Body shape (optional silhouette note, not a haircut rule). Trapezoid, Hourglass
Styling Tip
Start with damp hair and apply a volumising mousse.
Use a round brush and blow dryer to create height and volume, styling the hair upwards and backwards.
Conclusion
The Ivy League haircut is a family of cuts rather than a single style.
From the classic Harvard Clip to modern interpretations like the Asymmetrical Ivy League, this cut offers many options for different hair types, face shapes and personal preferences.
The Ivy League haircut’s lasting appeal lies in its versatility. Whether you’re aiming for a polished, professional look or a more relaxed, contemporary style, there’s an Ivy League variation to meet your needs.
The 15 variations show how much the cut can change while keeping its short sides and a top long enough to part.
When choosing your ideal Ivy League style, remember to consider the points below.
- Your face shape and the effect you want around it, such as more height, less height or simply a look you like
- The overall look you want with your usual outfits
- Your hair texture and density, which influence how each style sits and how easily it can be maintained
- Your lifestyle and how much time you’re willing to dedicate to styling
- Your personal style and the image you want to project
Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations or ask your barber for advice.
A skilled barber can adapt any of these Ivy League cuts to your hair, your upkeep and the look you want.
Remember, the key to pulling off any Ivy League style is confidence.
Whether you opt for the timeless elegance of the Classic Ivy League or the bold statement of the Ivy League Pompadour, wear your chosen style with pride.
Style Like A True Gentleman
Before you go, here is a simple order to follow, whether you work alone or with an image consultant.
Professional styling usually starts with knowing your body shape and seasonal colour palette, which help you choose well-fitting clothes in colours that suit your skin, eyes and hair.
Planning outfits for each occasion, location, season and time of day then builds on both, with garments, footwear, and accessories from heritage fashion brands that fit the way you want to look.
Take our three quizzes below, then book a paid consultation if you would like personal help.
1. Find Your Body Shape
Different garments flatter different silhouettes, so knowing your body shape is a useful first step.
To check your body shape, take our body shape quiz for men.
Next, take the second quiz to check your colour palette.
2. Find Your Seasonal Colours
Remember, the garments that compose your outfits come in various colours, and it helps to choose shades that suit your natural colouring.
To do that, find your seasonal colour palette by taking our seasonal colour quiz for men.
3. Find Your Fashion Style
Once you know your body shape and colour palette, the next step is to find your personal fashion style.
You can start with our fashion style quiz for men; it gives style suggestions, outfit ideas, relevant fashion brands, and much more.
Professional Image Consultancy with The VOU
If you would like personal help, you can book a paid consultation with our expert image consultants and fashion stylists.
Our styling services for men are paid consultations; the shop page lists what each one includes.
Remember, wearing luxury brands isn’t enough (see logo-heavy luxury brands and how to wear them); it also helps to know your body shape, colour palette, and ideal personal style, and then to dress by occasion, location, season, and time of day.
Contact us if you would like to book a paid consultation.