The old money haircut is bringing classic men’s grooming back into the conversation. Think neatly styled side parts, natural volume, slick backs, and traditional scissor cuts that look just as good with a tailored suit as they do with everyday clothes.

While the old money aesthetic has gained attention across social media, the hairstyles themselves have been around for generations. These are timeless cuts built around shape, proportion, and a polished finish without excessive styling.

From the classic side part to the Ivy League haircut, we’re exploring four old money hairstyles for men, how to ask your barber for each one, and how to maintain the look at home.

1. What Exactly Is an Old Money Haircut?

An old money haircut isn’t one specific hairstyle. It’s a broader grooming aesthetic that favours traditional shapes, natural movement, and neatly maintained hair over exaggerated volume or dramatic contrasts.

Think of classic gentleman’s haircuts that have remained recognisable for decades. A well-defined side part, a neatly combed slick back, or a traditional scissor cut can all fit the look.

Unlike some modern hairstyles that rely on very short skin fades or heavily textured finishes, old money haircuts often retain more length through the sides and top. The result is a softer, more natural silhouette.

That doesn’t mean the haircut has to look old-fashioned. A skilled barber can adjust the length, taper, and styling to make a traditional cut feel contemporary.

2. The Classic Side Part

The classic side part is one of the most recognisable old money hairstyles for men. It creates a smart, structured appearance while remaining versatile enough for everyday wear.

The hair is left long enough on top to form a natural parting, while the sides are neatly tapered or shaped with scissors.

Unlike a hard part, which creates a sharply defined line using clippers or a razor, a traditional side part usually follows the hair’s natural direction.

Who Does It Suit?

The classic side part works particularly well with straight or slightly wavy hair. It can also be adapted for thicker hair by adjusting the length and removing weight where needed.

It’s a practical option for men who want a haircut that works for the office, formal occasions, and weekends.

What to Ask Your Barber

Ask for a classic side part with enough length on top to comb naturally. If you prefer a softer, traditional finish, request scissor-cut sides or a low taper rather than a high skin fade.

A small amount of styling cream or pomade can help maintain the parting without making the hair appear stiff.

3. The Slick Back

The slick back is another classic men’s haircut that has remained popular across generations.

Instead of creating a side part, the hair is combed backwards to produce a smooth, controlled shape. Depending on the length and styling product, the finish can range from neatly polished to relaxed and natural.

While traditional slick backs were often associated with shiny pomades, modern versions don’t need to look heavily gelled.

Who Does It Suit?

The slick back works well for men with straight or wavy hair that has enough length to move backwards comfortably.

Men with thicker hair may need additional shaping to prevent excessive volume around the sides.

What to Ask Your Barber

Ask to keep enough length on top to comb your hair backwards while maintaining a neat, gradual transition through the sides.

For a classic old money finish, a scissor cut or low taper can create a softer silhouette than a high fade.

To style it at home, blow-dry the hair backwards and apply a small amount of lightweight pomade or styling cream.

4. The Ivy League Haircut

The Ivy League haircut is a shorter, more practical take on traditional gentleman’s grooming.

It’s closely related to the crew cut but leaves enough length at the front to create a subtle side part or brushed finish.

The sides are usually kept neat and tapered, while the top maintains enough length for a little styling flexibility.

Who Does It Suit?

The Ivy League is a good option for men who prefer shorter hair but still want a classic, polished appearance.

It can work particularly well for men with straight or slightly wavy hair, although the shape can be adapted for other textures.

What to Ask Your Barber

Request an Ivy League haircut with neatly tapered sides and slightly more length towards the front.

If you prefer a traditional look, ask for a natural transition rather than a very short skin fade.

A little matte paste can help create a neat finish without adding too much shine.

5. The Gentleman’s Scissor Cut

Not every classic men’s haircut needs clippers.

A traditional gentleman’s scissor cut focuses on shaping the hair while preserving natural movement and a softer outline.

Rather than creating a dramatic contrast between the top and sides, the barber works with the overall length and shape to produce a balanced haircut.

Who Does It Suit?

Scissor cuts can work particularly well for men who prefer medium-length hairstyles or want to maintain more natural volume.

They are also a good choice for men with wavy hair who want to preserve movement without removing too much length.

What to Ask Your Barber

Ask for a classic scissor cut with natural movement and a neatly shaped neckline.

Explain how you normally style your hair, whether you prefer a side part, swept-back finish, or relaxed fringe.

Your barber can adjust the layers and length to suit your hair’s natural growth pattern.

If you’re considering a traditional style, explore the gents haircut services in Kensington for more information about classic men’s cuts.

6. Can You Have an Old Money Haircut With a Fade?

Yes. An old money haircut can include a fade, although the type of fade changes the overall appearance.

A low taper fade works particularly well with classic side parts and slick backs because it keeps the transition around the temples and neckline relatively subtle.

A skin fade creates a stronger contrast by blending the hair down to the skin. This produces a sharper, more contemporary finish.

Neither approach is automatically better. It depends on whether you prefer a softer, traditional look or something more defined.

If you’re unsure about the difference, explore our skin fade haircut service in Kensington or ask your barber which finish would suit your chosen hairstyle.

7. How to Style an Old Money Haircut at Home

One of the appealing things about classic men’s hairstyles is that they don’t necessarily require a complicated styling routine.

The right product and a few minutes of styling can make a noticeable difference.

Start With Slightly Damp Hair

After washing your hair, gently towel-dry it until it’s slightly damp.

Use a comb to establish the direction you want your hair to sit. For a side part, follow the natural parting. For a slick back, comb the hair backwards.

Use a Hairdryer for Volume

If you want additional volume, use a hairdryer on a moderate heat setting while directing the hair into place.

This is particularly useful for men with straight hair that tends to sit flat.

Choose the Right Styling Product

• Matte paste: Ideal for a natural, textured finish without excessive shine.
• Styling cream: Provides softer control while maintaining movement.
• Pomade: Helps create a more defined, polished finish, with varying levels of shine.

Start with a small amount of product and add more only if needed. Too much can weigh the hair down and make a natural-looking style appear stiff.

8. Does the Old Money Haircut Work for Every Hair Type?

Classic hairstyles can be adapted to different hair textures, although the finished appearance will vary.

Men with straight hair may find side parts and slick backs easier to create, while naturally wavy hair can add movement and volume to a traditional scissor cut.

For curly hair, a longer layered style with a neat taper can capture the same classic appearance while preserving the natural curl pattern.

Coily hair can also be shaped into neat, structured styles that follow the principles of classic grooming without forcing the hair into a different texture.

The key is adapting the haircut to your natural hair rather than trying to copy a photograph exactly.

For more guidance, read our article on men’s haircuts for different hair types.

9. How Often Should You Maintain a Classic Haircut?

Most classic men’s haircuts benefit from regular maintenance to preserve their shape.

For shorter styles such as the Ivy League, appointments every three to five weeks may help maintain a neat finish.

Longer side parts, slick backs, and scissor cuts can often go four to eight weeks between appointments, depending on how quickly your hair grows and how tidy you prefer the style.

If your haircut includes a low taper, the edges may need attention sooner than the longer hair on top.

Regular maintenance also helps prevent unwanted bulk around the ears, neckline, and sides.

10. What to Ask Your Barber for an Old Money Haircut

Bringing a reference photo is always useful, but it helps to explain which parts of the haircut you actually like.

Before your appointment, consider the following:

• Do you prefer a classic side part, slick back, or shorter Ivy League style?
• Would you like the sides scissor-cut or softly tapered?
• How much length do you want to keep on top?
• Do you prefer a natural matte finish or something more polished?
• How much time are you willing to spend styling your hair each morning?

Your barber can then recommend a version of the haircut that works with your hair texture, density, and everyday routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an old money haircut?

An old money haircut refers to classic, understated men’s hairstyles such as side parts, slick backs, Ivy League cuts, and traditional scissor cuts. These styles favour neat shaping and natural movement.

What is the most classic old money hairstyle?

The classic side part is one of the most recognisable examples. It combines a natural parting, neatly shaped sides, and a polished finish.

Can you get an old money haircut with a fade?

Yes. A low taper fade can complement a classic hairstyle while maintaining a relatively soft silhouette. A skin fade creates a sharper, more modern appearance.

Is the old money haircut suitable for older men?

Yes. Classic side parts, slick backs, and scissor cuts work across different age groups. The haircut can be adapted to suit your hairline, density, and preferred length.

What products should I use for an old money haircut?

Matte paste, styling cream, and pomade can all work depending on the desired finish. Styling cream provides softer movement, while pomade can create a more defined look.

How often should I get an old money haircut?

Many classic hairstyles benefit from maintenance every three to six weeks, although longer styles may go longer between appointments depending on hair growth and personal preference.

11. Book a Classic Men’s Haircut in Kensington

The appeal of the old money haircut is its simplicity. A well-shaped side part, slick back, Ivy League cut, or traditional scissor cut can look smart without relying on dramatic styling.

Whether you’re looking for a classic gentleman’s haircut or a modern interpretation with a low taper, Kensington Barbers offers men’s haircuts and grooming services in Earl’s Court, London.

Our barbers can help you choose a haircut that suits your hair texture, preferred length, and everyday routine.

Explore our full range of barber services in Kensington, including gents cuts, skin fades, beard trims, and traditional grooming.