What Is an Old Money Hairstyle?
An Old Money hairstyle for men is a classic, tidy look with a clean side part, soft volume, and a smooth, natural finish. It usually has medium-length hair on top and neat, tapered sides that keep the shape balanced. These styles come from traditional prep and Ivy League cuts, which is why they look elegant and expensive without trying too hard. Old Money hairstyles work well with most hair types and fit both formal and casual settings, making them timeless and easy to wear.
Here are the top Old Money hairstyles that give a classy, clean, and polished look suitable for any hair type.
Top Old Money Hairstyles for Men
Classic Taper
The Classic Taper is a clean, timeless style that works perfectly for an old-money look. The sides taper smoothly while the top stays longer with soft waves that add natural movement. This shape creates a sharp, mature outline without looking too strict. Apply a small amount of Styling Cream through damp hair, blow-dry upward, and use your fingers to shape a relaxed, polished finish.
French Crop
The French Crop is a short, neat haircut with tight sides and a slightly longer top that gives a clean old-money look. The fringe is trimmed straight across the forehead, creating a sharp and tidy shape. The top has light texture, which helps thinning hair look fuller. Style this French Crop by working a small amount of Texture Clay through the top and shaping it gently with your fingers.
Undercut
This Undercut features very short sides with a sharp disconnect, making the longer top stand out and look fuller. The top is brushed back in smooth, layered waves. Blow-dry the top for lift, then use a small amount of Styling Cream to shape the hair so it stays neat, soft, and natural-looking.
Ivy League Cut
The Ivy League Cut is a classic style with short, tapered sides and a longer top that is neatly brushed to the side. The top has enough length to add light volume without looking messy, giving it a smart Old Money feel. Blow-dry the hair while lifting the front, then shape it with your fingers. A small amount of Styling Cream keeps the hair smooth, soft, and well-controlled all day.
Want more polished cuts like this? Check out the best Ivy League Haircuts for men.
Classic Slick Back
The Classic Slick Back gives a sharp, old-money look with hair combed smoothly away from the face for a clean, confident style. The sides stay short while the top is kept longer, allowing the hair to sweep back in one neat flow. Blow-dry the hair backward for lift, then shape it with your fingers. A small amount of Styling Cream adds shine and keeps the slick finish in place all day.
Classic Pompadour
The Classic Pompadour creates a bold, old-money look with tall volume swept smoothly away from the face. The sides stay short while the top is left long to form a high, sculpted shape. Blow-dry the hair upward for lift, then guide it back with your fingers. A light dusting of Texture Powder helps maintain height, adds grip, and keeps the pompadour structured all day.
Gentleman's Haircut
The Gentleman's Haircut is a classic style that looks clean, sharp, and confident. The sides and back are neatly tapered, while the top is left longer and combed back or slightly to the side. This creates a smooth shape that looks polished and professional. Blow-dry the top while guiding the hair back with your fingers, then apply Pomade to add shine and keep the hairstyle neatly in place.
Businessman Haircut
The Businessman Haircut is a clean and professional style that looks sharp and confident. The sides and back are cut short with a smooth taper, while the top is left longer and neatly combed to the side. This creates a tidy shape that suits both work and formal settings. Blow-dry while guiding the hair sideways, then apply Pomade to keep the hair smooth, controlled, and well-groomed all day.
Regulation Cut
The Regulation Cut is a clean, classic haircut known for its neat shape and sharp finish. The sides and back are cut short with a smooth taper, while the top is slightly longer and neatly parted to one side. This creates a balanced and professional look. Blow-dry the top while guiding the hair into the side part, then apply Pomade to keep the hair smooth, controlled, and polished.
Executive Contour
The Executive Contour is a classic haircut that looks clean, sharp, and professional. The sides and back are tapered neatly, while the top is kept longer and combed back with a defined side part. This creates a smooth shape that frames the head and highlights the hair’s natural shine. Blow-dry while guiding the hair back, then apply Pomade to keep the style sleek, controlled, and polished all day.
Princeton Cut
The Princeton Cut is a neat and classic haircut that gives a confident look. The sides and back are cut short with a smooth taper, while the top is slightly longer for easy styling. The hair is usually brushed to the side or slightly upward to add natural volume. Blow-dry while lifting the front with your fingers, then apply Molding Paste to add light hold and keep the style tidy.
Collegiate Cut
The Collegiate Cut is a clean and stylish haircut that looks neat but still relaxed. The sides and back are cut shorter with a smooth taper, while the top is left slightly longer for natural volume. The front can be brushed upward or gently to the side, creating a fresh and youthful shape. Blow-dry while lifting the hair with your fingers, then apply Molding Paste to add light hold and texture.
Layered Cut
The Layered Cut creates a soft, old-money look with long, flowing sections that naturally build movement around the sides and top. The hair is cut in stacked layers to add volume without looking heavy. Blow-dry with a brush to lift the roots, then shape the front with your fingers. A small amount of Styling Cream keeps the layers smooth, flexible, and classy.
Love this look? Browse other classy layered hairstyles for men you can try next.
Caesar Cut
The Caesar Cut gives a clean, old-money look with its short length and straight, forward-brushed fringe. The top is kept slightly textured to add movement, while the sides stay neatly trimmed for a sharp shape. Blow-dry the front forward and use your fingers to set the line. A light dusting of Texture Powder adds volume and keeps the short layers looking full all day. Check out the best Caesar Cut Haircuts for a clean and confident look.
Classic Quiff
The Classic Quiff is a clean old-money style with short sides and a longer top that lifts up and back. The hair on top is brushed upward to create height, then gently pushed back for a soft wave. The sides stay tidy to keep the focus on the volume. Blow-dry the top for lift and use Molding Paste to shape the quiff while keeping it natural.
Layered Medium Cut
The Layered Medium Cut is a classic old-money hairstyle with medium-length hair on top and soft, blended layers that create natural movement. The sides and back are kept slightly shorter so the shape stays clean and balanced. The top gently sweeps back without looking stiff. Blow-dry the hair to add lift at the roots, then use Styling Cream to keep the layers smooth, controlled, and naturally flowing.
Classic Comb Over
The Classic Comb Over is a neat old-money hairstyle with short, even sides and longer hair on top that’s brushed cleanly to one side. The top sits smooth and flat, creating a sharp, tidy shape that looks classy and mature. Blow-dry the hair while brushing it sideways, then apply a small amount of Pomade to add gentle shine and keep the part firm and controlled. Check out the best Comb Over Haircuts for a sharp, classy finish.
Bro Flow
The Bro Flow is a medium-length haircut where the hair grows long on top and around the sides, then naturally flows backward with a soft wave. It gives a relaxed, old-money look that feels clean and stylish. Blow-dry your hair back using your fingers, then apply a small amount of Styling Cream to add control, smooth texture, and keep the flow in place.
Side Fringe
The Side Fringe is an old-money hairstyle where the top hair is left longer and gently pushed to the side, creating a soft piece of hair that falls over the forehead. The sides stay shorter for a clean and tidy shape. Blow-dry the top forward and sideways, then use a little Styling Cream to keep the hair in place while still looking natural and smooth.
Classic Crew Cut
The Classic Crew Cut features short hair on top, slightly faded sides, and a clean neckline that creates a sharp, tidy look. The top is trimmed close but left long enough to show soft texture and natural movement. This style works well for young men who want a simple, classic shape that always looks neat. For styling, add a light dusting of Texture Powder to give the top gentle lift and all-day hold.
Classic Side Part
The Classic Side Part has short sides and a longer top that is combed to one side for a clean, classy look. The hair on top is slightly layered to add light volume without looking too full. Blow-dry the top while using your fingers to guide the part. Finish with a small amount of Styling Cream to keep the hair in place and give it a smooth, natural finish.
Curtain Cut
The Curtain Cut uses a middle split with longer hair in the front that falls softly to each side, giving a relaxed and stylish frame around the face. The top has light layers to add gentle movement and volume. To style it, blow-dry while shaping the part with your fingers. A small amount of Styling Cream helps keep the hair smooth, flexible, and naturally flowing without looking heavy.
Scissor Cut
The Scissor Cut uses clean, precise cutting to shape the hair while keeping it soft and natural. The sides are trimmed neatly with scissors instead of clippers, and the top is left a bit longer for smooth volume and a classy sweep. Blow-dry the hair while brushing it back to build height. A light amount of Styling Cream helps keep the style controlled & shiny.
Side Swept
The Side Swept style features medium-length hair brushed gently to one side for a clean, classic look. The top has soft volume, while the sides stay neat and natural, giving it a polished Old Money vibe. Blow-dry the hair while guiding it sideways with your fingers for smooth movement. A small amount of Styling Cream helps keep the Side Swept shape in place without making it stiff.
Brushed Back
The Brushed Back style lifts the hair away from the face, creating a smooth, high-volume look that feels clean and confident. The top is left longer and pushed backward, while the sides stay short and tidy for a sharp Old Money finish. Blow-dry the hair upward and back for natural height, then use Molding Paste to add hold, shape, and soft texture without making the style look heavy.
80/20 Haircut
The 80/20 Haircut features a strong, clean part where most of the hair is styled to one side, creating a sharp Old Money look. The top is left long, smooth, and neatly brushed back, while the other side stays shorter for a refined shape. Blow-dry the hair backward for control, then apply Styling Cream to keep the flow soft, shiny, and natural without weighing the hair down.
How to Choose the Right Old Money Hairstyle
Choosing the right Old Money look becomes easier when you know your hair type, face shape, and routine. Check the sections below.
By Hair Type
Choose an Old Money hairstyle that works with your natural hair type. Straight hair suits clean side parts and soft layers, while wavy hair looks best with gentle flow. Curly and coily hair benefit from controlled shaping that enhances natural texture and keeps the outline refined.
By Face Shape
Pick an Old Money hairstyle that balances your face shape. Oval faces fit most styles, round faces benefit from added height, and square faces look great with softer edges. Heart and diamond shapes suit side parts that create a clean, structured outline.
By Lifestyle & Maintenance
Choose an Old Money hairstyle that matches your daily lifestyle and grooming habits. Busy routines suit simpler, lower-maintenance cuts, while structured or professional settings work well with more polished, higher-maintenance styles. Pick a look that fits your dress code and feels natural for everyday wear.
How to Ask Your Barber for an Old Money Haircut
Getting an Old Money haircut is easier when you explain your style clearly. Follow the steps below to guide your barber.
Use Simple Classic Terms
Use simple, classic words when asking your barber for an Old Money haircut. Ask for a clean scissor-cut, a subtle taper on the sides, a longer top, and a natural side part. Speaking clearly helps your barber understand the timeless shape and balanced look you want.
Show a Reference Photo
Bring a clear reference photo to help your barber match the exact Old Money style you want. A photo shows the length, shape, parting, and overall finish, making it easier for your barber to create a polished, classic look that suits your face and hair type.
How to Style Old Money Haircuts
Follow these steps to style your Old Money haircut so it looks neat, natural, and polished with minimal effort.
Wash and Prep Hair
Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo to keep it clean and soft for an Old Money haircut. Towel-dry it lightly until damp, then comb it into your natural part. This creates a smooth base and helps the hairstyle fall into a classic, neat shape.
Add Light Texture or Volume
Add light texture or volume by applying a small amount of sea salt spray or lightweight cream to damp hair. Focus on lifting the roots and creating gentle movement. This keeps the Old Money hairstyle natural, soft, and controlled without any stiffness.
Blow-Dry for Natural Shape
Blow-dry your hair while brushing it into a soft side part for the Old Money look. Lift the top for smooth volume and guide the sides downward for a clean, refined shape. Use low to medium heat to keep the style natural and easy to manage.
Finish with a Low-Shine Product
Finish the Old Money hairstyle with a small amount of low-shine cream or clay. Spread it lightly through the top to define the part and smooth the sides. This creates a polished, timeless finish without making the hair look greasy or heavy.
How to Maintain an Old Money Hairstyle
These simple steps help you maintain an Old Money hairstyle by keeping the shape balanced, the hair healthy, and the texture naturally refined.
Regular Trims
Regular trims are important for keeping an Old Money hairstyle polished and balanced. Clean edges, healthy ends, and a controlled shape help the style look neat every day. Visiting your barber every 3-5 weeks prevents overgrowth, keeps the outline sharp, and maintains the classic, refined appearance this look is known for.
Hair Care Routine
A simple hair care routine helps maintain the clean, classic look of an Old Money hairstyle. Wash regularly to keep hair fresh, condition for softness, and brush daily for smooth shape and light shine. These easy habits keep the hair healthy, neat, and naturally elegant without needing a complicated routine.
Avoid Over-Styling
Avoid over-styling an Old Money hairstyle to protect its soft, natural shape. Too much product or heat can make the hair stiff, heavy, and lifeless. Using minimal styling and gentle grooming keeps the movement light, the texture clean, and the overall look effortlessly refined, which is key to the Old Money aesthetic.
Best Products for Old Money Hairstyles
Use these recommended products to keep Old Money hairstyles smooth, polished, and healthy. Follow the list below to achieve a classic finish.
Styling Cream
Styling cream creates a smooth, controlled finish for Old Money Hairstyles by adding soft shine, light hold, and natural movement. It keeps the hair neat and polished without looking heavy or overly styled.
Texture Clay
Texture clay gives Old Money Hairstyles a natural matte finish with clean structure. It helps maintain shape, adds subtle fullness, and keeps the style polished and controlled without any stiffness.
Pomade
Pomade adds refined shine and flexible hold, shaping classic Old Money looks like side parts and brush-backs. It keeps the hair smooth, neat, and timeless while maintaining a clean, elegant finish.
Texture Powder
Texture powder boosts lift and root volume for Old Money Hairstyles, creating a fuller, thicker look. It maintains soft structure and natural separation without adding weight, greasiness, or visible product.
Hydrating Argan Oil
Hydrating argan oil keeps Old Money Hairstyles healthy and smooth by adding softness, shine, and moisture. It reduces frizz and dryness without making the hair look oily or heavy.
Sea Salt Spray
Sea salt spray gives Old Money Hairstyles gentle texture, light lift, and natural movement. It creates a relaxed yet refined finish that still looks clean, polished, and effortlessly stylish.
Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoo removes buildup and refreshes the scalp, helping Old Money Hairstyles stay clean, light, and easy to style. It prevents dullness and keeps hair looking healthy and well-groomed.
Hydrating Conditioner
Hydrating conditioner softens and nourishes the hair, helping Old Money Hairstyles look smooth, healthy, and well-groomed. It reduces dryness, frizz, and roughness while maintaining natural movement and shine.
FAQs About Old Money Hairstyles
What is the old money hairstyle called?
Old money hairstyles are often called Classic Gentleman Cuts or Ivy League styles. These looks focus on clean lines, natural volume, soft layers, and neat side parts, inspired by traditional upper-class grooming and timeless sophistication.
What to ask for an old money haircut?
Ask your barber for a classic, soft-layered cut with a natural side part, medium length on top, and tapered sides. Request light texture and a low-shine, polished finish for an authentic old money look.
What hairstyles make you look expensive?
Neat, structured hairstyles like the Ivy League, side part, slick back, or soft waves create an expensive look. These styles highlight clean shaping, healthy hair, and refined styling with minimal effort.
What face shape suits old money hairstyles best?
Old money hairstyles look best on oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. These styles use balanced length and natural volume to highlight facial features while keeping a neat, classic look.
Can old money hairstyles work with wavy or curly hair?
Yes, old money hairstyles can work with wavy or curly hair. Light layers help control texture while keeping the hairstyle smooth, natural, and easy to style.
What is the best hairstyle for old money?
The best old money styles include the Ivy League, side part, brush-back, and classic taper. They offer timeless structure, controlled volume, and a polished finish that perfectly represents the old money aesthetic.
Can I wear Old Money Hairstyles if my hair is straight?
Yes, straight hair suits old money hairstyles very well because it naturally looks smooth and controlled. Add a light side part or soft texture to create depth while keeping the overall style clean and refined.
Do old-money hairstyles require a lot of time to maintain?
Old money hairstyles are generally low-maintenance. They only need regular trims, basic grooming, and light daily styling. Clean shaping and healthy, well-kept hair matter more than heavy products or complex techniques.
How do I style my hair to look like old money?
Style your hair with a clean side part, gentle volume, and a low-shine product. Blow-dry for shape, smooth the top, and keep the sides neat to achieve a polished, classic old money finish.
Are old money hairstyles suitable for thinning hair?
Yes, old money hairstyles can work for thinning hair. Soft layers, side parts, and light volume help create a fuller look. Avoid strong contrast or heavy products that expose thinner areas.
What products are best for old money hairstyles?
Use Pomade or Styling Cream for old money hairstyles. These products keep the hair neat, smooth, and controlled while adding a natural shine without making it stiff.
Is the old money hairstyle still trending?
Yes, old money hairstyles remain very popular. Men love these clean, timeless cuts because they look refined, versatile, and classy for school, work, or formal events.