ivy league style: traditional and modern

After reading the Ivy Style interview with Bruce Boyer about the traditions of the Ivy League look (thanks to A Continuous Lean for the heads up), I was compelled to do a post on the subject.  For me (as with many), I’m drawn to this timeless look mainly because of its clean, classic, and refined aesthetic.  It has withstood the test of time, remained firm in the face of trends throughout the decades.  I love it because it mandates that your business attire be sharply tailored, with the fine details of each piece of your suit meticulously addressed.  At the same time, its casual philosophy also borrows these principles.  Casually, it’s comfortable and classy, but unique in its effortless and rumpled appeal.  For casual Ivy League style on a nice spring or summer day, there is nothing like wearing a nice oxford shirt (pastel or white) with a pair of shorts (seersucker, khaki, pastel, etc.) and a pair of low profile shoes, preferably boat shoes (Sebago, Sperry).  Don’t forget to roll up the sleeves a bit, leave it untucked, and unbutton it a little lower than you normally would during the cold months.  Classic, effortless, comfortable.

After the jump you’ll find a curation of classic legendary figures, as well as those currently faithful to the traditional Ivy League style.  There are old photos, and as the title suggests, there are newer ones.

Frat boys during the 50’s, all smiles.  They know they are the epotime of Ivy League style.

A hot NYC summer afternoon calls for rumpled Ivy League style duds.

The most iconic family of Ivy League style.  Nice suit and repp tie, Edward.

Golf, a sport where Ivy League style is traditionally very easy to spot.  The baby blue sweater and red chinos make for a great look.

Princeton students all looking distinguished for class.  Mr. Argyle Sweater in the middle knows what he’s doing.

A modern example of a traditionally influenced Ivy League look.

Mr. Newman fishing in style.  Gotta respect the popped collar on the blue oxford button down.

Like tie bars, could collar pins be poised for a comeback?

Sidney Poitier is angry.  Why?  Because few give him enough credit for his personal Ivy League sense of fashion.

A crisp, clean look.  Another wonderful example of Ivy League style updated for modern times.

Jazz and the Ivy League look blended well during the jazz boom thanks to trendsetters like Miles.