50 Ivy League Haircuts

Tired of boring hair? The Ivy League cut is the gold standard for men who want a sharp, classic look.

We gathered 50 ways to rock this style, from the super traditional to modern fades.

Get ready for your sharpest look yet, no matter your hair type.

1. Traditional Neat Part

A timeless cut with short, clean sides and a neatly parted top. Ideal for men who want a polished, professional look that never goes out of style.

• Best for straight hair.
• Requires daily combing.
• Use light pomade.

Pro Tip: Ask your barber for a #2 or #3 guard on the sides for the most classic length.

2. Classic Defined Side Part

Features a defined side part with balanced length on top and tapered sides. Works perfectly for office settings and formal occasions where neatness is key.

• Great for square faces.
• Use a fine-tooth comb.
• Keep the top medium length.

Pro Tip: Blow-dry the top against the part line first, then comb it over for maximum volume and hold.

3. Low Tapered Side Part

Keeps the traditional Ivy League shape but softens the sides with a low taper. This look is clean, subtle, and incredibly easy to maintain daily.

• Low maintenance style.
• Taper starts near the ear.
• Works well with glasses.

Pro Tip: The low taper keeps the cut looking fresh longer than a full fade.

4. Scissor-Cut Top Ivy

The top is cut entirely with scissors for a natural finish and soft movement. Great for men who prefer texture over sharp, military lines.

• Adds natural volume.
• Avoids harsh edges.
• Use matte paste for styling.

Pro Tip: This technique works best if your hair is naturally thick or slightly wavy.

5. Natural Texture Ivy

Designed to follow the hair’s natural growth pattern and texture. Ideal for men who want a relaxed, effortless Ivy League style without heavy product.

• Air dry for best results.
• Minimal product needed.
• Great for slightly wavy hair.

Pro Tip: Tell your barber to use point cutting to enhance the natural movement of the hair.

6. Ivy with Light Fringe

Adds a slight fringe (bangs) at the front for a softer, youthful appearance. Perfect for balancing longer or narrower face shapes by adding width.

• Softens sharp jawlines.
• Keeps the front longer.
• Style forward slightly.

Pro Tip: Use a small amount of clay to define the fringe without making it look greasy.

7. Ivy with Tidy Quiff

The front is styled slightly upward for subtle volume while keeping the sides clean. This is a refined upgrade to the classic Ivy League cut.

• Adds height at the crown.
• Sides remain very short.
• Use medium-hold wax.

Pro Tip: Use a round brush when blow-drying the front to achieve that perfect, subtle lift.

8. Ivy with Brush-Up Front

The top is brushed upward rather than parted, creating a confident and modern look without losing the Ivy League structure. It offers great vertical lift.

• Modern, bold style.
• Requires strong holding spray.
• Best for thick hair.

Pro Tip: Make sure the sides are tapered tightly to emphasize the height of the brush-up.

9. Ivy with Mini Pompadour

Adds gentle height at the front while maintaining conservative, short sides. A stylish option for men who want presence without excess volume or drama.

• Subtle front lift.
• Neat and controlled.
• Use matte finish product.

Pro Tip: This style works best when the hair on top is about two inches long.

10. Subtle Side Sweep Ivy

The top is swept gently to one side for a relaxed, natural finish. Great for everyday wear and low-effort styling while still looking put-together.

• Low-effort styling.
• Natural, relaxed look.
• Use light cream or paste.

Pro Tip: The side sweep looks best when the hair has natural movement and isn’t stiff.

11. Textured Mid Fade Ivy

Combines classic Ivy proportions with a modern mid fade on the sides. Ideal for men who want sharp contrast with clean blending between lengths.

• High contrast style.
• Mid fade starts above the ear.
• Top is kept textured.

Pro Tip: Ask for a skin taper at the neckline to keep the fade looking extra sharp.

12. Ivy with Hard Part

Features a razor-defined part line for a crisp, structured look. Best for men who like sharp, high-definition styles that stand out clearly.

• Very defined separation.
• Requires frequent touch-ups.
• Use strong-hold gel.

Pro Tip: The hard part makes the style look cleaner, even if the rest of the hair is slightly messy.

13. Disconnected Ivy Cut

Creates contrast by separating the longer top from the much shorter sides. This is a bold, modern take on the traditional Ivy League haircut.

• Strong visual break.
• Sides are buzzed short.
• Top length is flexible.

Pro Tip: This style needs regular trims to maintain the sharp separation line.

14. Ivy with Skin Fade Sides

The sides fade down completely to the skin, giving the cut a fresh and edgy finish. Perfect for trend-focused styles that emphasize the top length.

• Maximum contrast.
• Cool for hot weather.
• Needs bi-weekly trims.

Pro Tip: A skin fade requires moisturizing the scalp to prevent dryness and irritation.

15. Ivy with Shadow Fade

Uses a soft, gradual fade that keeps the look refined and subtle. Ideal for men who want modern detail without harsh or dramatic lines.

• Soft, gradual transition.
• Professional appearance.
• Great for all hair types.

Pro Tip: The shadow fade is a good choice if you work in a conservative office setting.

16. Taper Fade Long Fringe

Keeps significant length at the front while tapering the sides neatly. This adds personality and flair while still staying polished and structured.

• Focus on front length.
• Tapered back and sides.
• Style the fringe forward.

Pro Tip: Use a light heat protectant if you use a flat iron slightly on the fringe for definition.

17. Ivy with Curly Top

Allows natural curls to define the top while the sides stay neat and short. A great option for embracing texture with classic structure.

• Embraces natural curl.
• Sides kept tight.
• Use curl defining cream.

Pro Tip: Never brush the curls when dry; use your fingers and product instead.

18. Wavy Mid Part Ivy

Uses natural waves parted loosely in the middle for a relaxed Ivy League update. This style is stylish yet approachable and easygoing.

• Relaxed, modern part.
• Best for wavy hair.
• Use minimal product.

Pro Tip: Don’t aim for a perfect center part; a slightly off-center part looks more natural.

19. Modern Quiff and Fade

Adds noticeable volume at the front paired with a clean fade on the sides. Ideal for men who want a confident, contemporary look that commands attention.

• High volume front.
• Sharp, clean fade.
• Requires strong hold.

Pro Tip: Use a texture powder at the roots before styling the quiff for maximum lift.

20. Ivy with Layered Top

Layers add depth and movement to the top section of the hair. This technique makes the haircut feel lighter and more dynamic than a block cut.

• Adds visual depth.
• Good for thick hair.
• Style with paste.

Pro Tip: Layering helps control bulk, especially if your hair tends to puff out on the sides.

21. Textured Crop Ivy

Short, textured top with clean, tapered sides for a sharp but modern feel. Great for low-maintenance styling that still looks detailed.

• Very low maintenance.
• Top is kept short.
• Use matte clay.

Pro Tip: This cut looks great when styled forward slightly over the forehead.

22. Loose Waves Ivy

Designed for naturally wavy hair, keeping movement visible while maintaining the Ivy League structure. The waves are the main focus.

• Showcases natural wave.
• Sides are neatly tapered.
• Use sea salt spray.

Pro Tip: Scrunch your hair while drying to encourage the natural wave pattern.

23. Ivy with Choppy Texture

Uses uneven, textured layers for a slightly edgy finish on top. Best for men who want a casual, modern look that doesn’t feel too stiff.

• Edgy, casual style.
• Layers are highly visible.
• Use fiber product.

Pro Tip: Choppy texture is excellent for hiding cowlicks or stubborn growth patterns.

24. Tousled Side Part Ivy

A relaxed, slightly messy version of the classic side part. Ideal for casual outfits and everyday wear where perfection isn’t the goal.

• Intentional messy look.
• Use fingers to style.
• Sides stay clean.

Pro Tip: Don’t use a comb; just run your fingers through the top after applying a light wax.

25. Sea-Salt Finish Ivy

Styled with sea-salt spray for airy texture and volume on the top. Perfect for a natural, effortless look that feels like a beach vacation.

• Adds airy volume.
• Natural, matte look.
• Great for fine hair.

Pro Tip: Apply the spray to damp hair and let it air dry for the best texture.

26. Ivy with Natural Movement

Focuses on flow rather than stiffness, letting the hair move freely while staying clean on the sides. This cut is all about easy grace.

• Avoids stiff products.
• Hair moves freely.
• Use light styling cream.

Pro Tip: Ask your barber to thin out the top slightly if your hair is very thick.

27. Ivy with Soft Layers

Adds subtle layering to prevent the haircut from looking flat or heavy. Great for men with fine or straight hair who need a lift.

• Adds volume to fine hair.
• Layers are hidden.
• Blow dry upward.

Pro Tip: Soft layers help the hair hold a side part better throughout the day.

28. Messy Defined Ivy

Balances controlled, short sides with a relaxed, slightly messy top. This style is fashionable without looking over-styled or trying too hard.

• Controlled chaos on top.
• Sides are sharp and short.
• Use strong matte clay.

Pro Tip: To achieve the messy look, rub the product in your hands and quickly run them through your hair in different directions.

29. Ivy with Soft Fringe Waves

Keeps a wavy fringe at the front for a softer, youthful appearance. This works well for men whose hair naturally falls forward.

• Youthful front style.
• Emphasizes wave pattern.
• Sides are tapered.

Pro Tip: Avoid heavy products on the fringe to keep the waves light and bouncy.

30. Ivy with Curly Taper

Combines a tapered side with a naturally curly top for a clean yet expressive look. The taper keeps the neckline exceptionally tidy.

• Clean neckline.
• Curls are defined.
• Use moisturizing product.

Pro Tip: Regularly condition your curls to prevent frizz and keep them looking sharp.

31. Long Ivy Deep Side Part

Features extra length on top and a pronounced, deep side part. Ideal for men who like traditional elegance with significant volume and presence.

• Maximum top length.
• Very formal look.
• Use high-shine pomade.

Pro Tip: Use a comb to create the deep part while the hair is still damp.

32. Long Structured Sweep

The longer top is swept back neatly and smoothly for a refined, confident style. This is a powerful, executive version of the Ivy League cut.

• Swept back smoothly.
• High-hold needed.
• Adds length to the face.

Pro Tip: Blow dry the hair straight back from the forehead to set the direction before adding product.

33. Classic Pompadour Ivy

Blends Ivy League neatness on the sides with pompadour height at the front. Best for statement-making looks that still respect tradition.

• High front volume.
• Sides are very short.
• Use firm-hold pomade.

Pro Tip: The pompadour should flow smoothly into the shorter hair on the crown.

34. High Volume Ivy

Focuses on fullness and height at the top while keeping sides tight and controlled. Great for men with naturally thicker hair types.

• Emphasizes hair thickness.
• Sides are buzzed.
• Use texture powder for lift.

Pro Tip: Ask your barber to thin out the sides slightly to reduce bulk and keep the shape clean.

35. Slick Back Ivy

The top is brushed back smoothly and flatly for a clean, sophisticated finish. This cut is sharp, polished, and very formal.

• Flat, smooth finish.
• Very sophisticated look.
• Use strong gel or wax.

Pro Tip: Apply product evenly from the roots to the ends for a truly slick finish.

36. Comb-Over Fade Ivy

A modern comb-over paired with faded sides. This style is polished, versatile, and uses the fade to create a strong visual line.

• Modern comb-over.
• Sides are faded low.
• Great for thinning hair.

Pro Tip: Make sure the part line is natural; avoid combing over too far or it looks unnatural.

37. Ivy with Curtain Fringe

Features a soft, parted fringe that frames the forehead for a relaxed, modern vibe. This is a youthful and easygoing take on the cut.

• Frames the face softly.
• Parted in the middle.
• Sides are tapered.

Pro Tip: This style needs the top hair to be at least four inches long to achieve the curtain effect.

38. Brushed-Back Texture Ivy

Keeps texture visible while styling the hair backward for a casual-clean look. It avoids the stiffness of a traditional slick back.

• Textured, not slick.
• Casual yet neat.
• Use matte paste.

Pro Tip: Use your fingers to rake the hair back instead of a comb to maintain the texture.

39. Undercut Ivy Long Top

Strong contrast between shaved sides and a longer, structured top. This style is bold yet controlled and very modern.

• High contrast style.
• Sides are buzzed short.
• Top is styled back.

Pro Tip: The longer the top, the more dramatic the contrast will be against the undercut sides.

40. Disconnected Undercut Ivy

Emphasizes a sharp separation between the top length and the short sides for a fashion-forward style. It’s a very defined look.

• Sharp break line.
• Sides are uniform length.
• Requires precise cutting.

Pro Tip: Use a blow dryer to push the top hair over the separation line for maximum effect.

41. Business Ivy Low Fade

Professional and clean, combining the classic Ivy top with a subtle low fade. This is ideal for corporate environments that require neatness.

• Very professional look.
• Fade starts near the neck.
• Minimal styling needed.

Pro Tip: Ensure the fade transition is very smooth and gradual to keep it looking business-ready.

42. Clean Short Back and Sides

Minimal length on the sides and back for a sharp, disciplined appearance. This cut is all about neatness and structure.

• Maximum neatness.
• Sides are uniform length.
• Easy to maintain.

Pro Tip: This style looks best when the sides are kept at a #1 or #2 guard.

43. Ivy with Crisp Line-Up

Adds precise edges around the hairline, temples, and neck for a sharper, boxier finish. This technique adds definition to the face.

• Sharp hairline edges.
• Adds definition to the face.
• Needs frequent touch-ups.

Pro Tip: A line-up works best on men with naturally straight or coarse hair.

44. Ivy with Subtle Taper

Soft tapering that gradually shortens the hair near the neckline and ears. This is a conservative, timeless look that avoids fades.

• Conservative style.
• No harsh lines.
• Timeless appeal.

Pro Tip: The taper should be barely noticeable, just enough to clean up the edges.

45. Gentle Schoolboy Ivy

Short, neat, and youthful without looking dated. This style is simple, clean, and highly approachable for younger men.

• Youthful and simple.
• Short length all over.
• Minimal product needed.

Pro Tip: This cut is a great choice for men who are new to structured hairstyles.

46. Ivy with Narrow Side Part

A slimmer, less pronounced part line creates a sleek and elegant silhouette. This keeps the focus on the smooth flow of the hair.

• Sleek, elegant look.
• Part is very thin.
• Use fine-tooth comb.

Pro Tip: Avoid using a razor for the part; keep it natural but defined by the comb.

47. Low-Maintenance Ivy Cut

Designed to look good with minimal styling effort, often using slightly shorter lengths on top. Perfect for busy men on the go.

• Wash and go style.
• Top is kept short.
• Use light cream or balm.

Pro Tip: Ask for a slightly shorter top length (around one inch) to reduce styling time.

48. Ivy for Thick Hair

Focuses on controlling volume and weight while keeping the shape structured. Layering is used heavily to remove bulk from the sides and top.

• Controls excessive volume.
• Heavy layering on top.
• Requires thinning scissors.

Pro Tip: Tell your barber to thin the sides heavily so they don’t stick out as they grow.

49. Ivy for Thin Hair (Textured)

Uses texture and light layering on top to create the illusion of fullness and density. The short sides make the top look thicker.

• Adds density illusion.
• Sides are kept short.
• Use texture powder.

Pro Tip: Avoid heavy, wet-look products, as they can make thin hair look stringy.

50. Curly Ivy with Tapered Sides

Keeps curls defined on top with clean, tapered sides for a balanced look. This ensures the cut is neat while celebrating the curl pattern.

• Curls are the focus.
• Tapered sides for balance.
• Use anti-frizz serum.

Pro Tip: For men with very tight curls, ask for the top to be slightly longer to allow the curls to form properly.

The Ivy League haircut proves that classic style never fails. Whether you prefer a sharp fade or a natural texture, there is an Ivy cut for you.

Pin this list for later and tell your barber exactly which style you want!