In the ever-evolving world of men’s fashion, few trends have made as lasting an impact as the Peaky Blinders hairstyle. This iconic look, inspired by the hit TV series set in 1920s Birmingham, has transcended the screen to become a staple in barbershops worldwide. As we dive into 2024, the allure of these dapper cuts shows no signs of fading. Let’s explore why the Peaky Blinders haircut remains at the forefront of men’s grooming and how you can rock this timeless style with a modern twist.
The Iconic Peaky Blinders Haircut: A Breakdown
The Peaky Blinders hairstyle is more than just a haircut; it’s a statement. Characterized by its sharp contrast between closely cropped sides and a longer top, this look embodies the tough guy aesthetic of 1920s Birmingham gangsters. At its core, the style is a variation of the disconnected undercut, a cut that’s stood the test of time due to its versatility and bold appearance.
Key features of the Peaky Blinders haircut include:
- Short, sometimes shaved sides
- Longer hair on top, often with a textured finish
- A distinct separation between the top and sides
- Styled with a slicked-back or forward sweep
This gangster haircut suits a variety of face shapes, but it’s particularly flattering for those with square or oval faces. The sharp lines of the cut can help define jawlines and cheekbones, giving wearers that enviable tough guy look.
Face Shapes and the Peaky Blinders Cut
While the Peaky Blinders hairstyle can work for many, it’s important to consider how it complements different face shapes:
- Square Face: The sharp angles of the cut enhance the strong jawline.
- Oval Face: This versatile shape works well with most variations of the style.
- Round Face: The short sides can help elongate the face and create a more angular appearance.
- Diamond Face: The textured top can balance out wider cheekbones.
- Heart Face: A longer top with a textured fringe can soften a pointed chin.
Remember, a skilled barber can always adjust the Peaky Blinders haircut to best suit your individual features.
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Top 5 Peaky Blinders-Inspired Haircuts for 2024
The Thomas Shelby Classic
The Thomas Shelby haircut is perhaps the most recognizable of all Peaky Blinders hairstyles. This cut features:
- Extremely short sides, often faded to the skin
- Longer top, typically 2-3 inches in length
- Textured, slightly messy styling on top
In 2024, we’re seeing modern twists on this classic look. Barbers are experimenting with:
- Softer fades for a more subtle transition
- Longer lengths on top for added versatility
- Incorporating natural wave or curl patterns
Styling Tip: To achieve Thomas Shelby’s signature look, use a matte clay or pomade. Work it through damp hair, then comb it back with your fingers for a textured finish.
Arthur Shelby’s Bold Statement
Arthur Shelby’s haircut is for those who want to make a strong impression. This style includes:
- Shaved sides, often with visible skin
- A dramatic length difference between sides and top
- Slicked-back styling with a strong hold product
This Peaky Blinders haircut style works best for men with thick, straight hair who aren’t afraid to stand out. It’s a look that commands attention and exudes confidence.
Pro Tip: For Arthur’s sleek look, invest in a high-shine pomade. Apply to damp hair and use a fine-toothed comb to create that perfectly slicked-back appearance.
John Shelby’s Youthful Edge
The John Shelby haircut offers a slightly more relaxed take on the gang boss haircut. Key elements include:
- Moderately short sides, usually with a taper rather than a full fade
- A longer top that’s styled forward or to the side
- Textured finish for a more casual, everyday look
This style is versatile and can be adapted for different hair types:
- For curly hair: Embrace the natural texture for a softer look
- For fine hair: Use sea salt spray to add volume and texture
Styling Suggestion: To capture John’s effortless cool, try a texturizing powder or dry shampoo on the roots before styling. This adds volume and helps maintain the messy-yet-intentional look.
Michael Gray’s Sleek Sophistication
Michael Gray’s haircut represents a more polished version of the Peaky Blinders hairstyle. It features:
- Clean, tapered sides
- Longer top styled with a side part
- Smooth, glossy finish
This look is perfect for those who need to maintain a professional appearance while still nodding to the Peaky Blinders aesthetic. It’s easily adaptable for the office:
- Style with a matte product for a more subdued look
- Opt for a higher taper for a cleaner appearance
Boardroom Ready: For a Michael Gray-inspired look that’s office-appropriate, use a water-based pomade for hold without excessive shine. Create a precise side part with a fine-toothed comb for that extra touch of sophistication.
Alfie Solomons’ Rugged Charm
Alfie Solomons brings a different flavor to the Peaky Blinders haircut lineup. His style incorporates:
- Longer sides compared to other Peaky Blinders cuts
- Textured, messy styling on top
- A full beard that complements the haircut
This look is ideal for men who:
- Prefer a more relaxed, less maintained style
- Want to combine facial hair with their Peaky Blinders hairstyle
- Have a more mature appearance
Beard Maintenance: To truly channel Alfie Solomons, pay as much attention to your beard as your hair. Use beard oil to keep it soft and manageable, and trim regularly to maintain the desired shape.
How to Achieve the Perfect Peaky Blinders Cut
Getting the right Peaky Blinders haircut starts with clear communication with your barber. Here are some tips:
- Use the right terminology:
- Ask for a “disconnected undercut” as the base
- Specify the length you want on top (e.g., “2 inches on top”)
- Describe the fade you prefer (e.g., “high skin fade”)
- Bring reference photos:
- Screenshots from the show
- Images of celebrities sporting similar styles
- Discuss your hair type and daily routine to ensure the cut suits your lifestyle
For those brave enough to maintain their Peaky Blinders hairstyle at home, here are some DIY tips:
- Invest in quality clippers with multiple guard lengths
- Practice blending techniques to maintain the fade
- Trim the top with scissors, following the natural growth pattern
Barber’s Insight: “When clients ask for a Peaky Blinders cut, I always discuss their lifestyle first. A high-maintenance cut like Thomas Shelby’s isn’t for everyone. Sometimes, a softer version like Michael Gray’s is more suitable for daily wear.” – Jack Thompson, Master Barber
Styling Your Peaky Blinders Haircut
Achieving the perfect Peaky Blinders hairstyle doesn’t end with the cut. Proper styling is crucial:
- Start with damp hair
- Apply a small amount of styling product (pomade or cream) to your palms
- Work the product through your hair, focusing on the longer top section
- Use a comb to create your desired part or slicked-back look
- For a textured finish, use your fingers to tousle the hair slightly
- Set the style with a blast of cool air from your hairdryer
For special occasions, consider:
- Using a stronger hold product for a more defined look
- Adding shine spray for a glossier finish
- Incorporating a more dramatic side part for added sophistication
Expert Tip: “The key to a great Peaky Blinders style is in the details. Don’t rush the process. Take your time to get the parting right and ensure the product is evenly distributed.” – Sarah Chen, Celebrity Hairstylist
Styling for Different Hair Types
The Peaky Blinders hairstyle can be adapted for various hair types:
- Straight Hair: Lucky you! This hair type is ideal for the classic slicked-back look.
- Wavy Hair: Embrace your natural texture on top for a more relaxed version of the style.
- Curly Hair: Keep the sides short and let your curls add character to the longer top.
- Fine Hair: Use volumizing products to add body to the top section.
- Thick Hair: You might need to thin out the top slightly to make styling easier.
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Essential Products for the Peaky Blinders Look
To maintain your Peaky Blinders haircut, you’ll need the right tools:
Product Type | Recommendation | Best For |
---|---|---|
Pomade | Reuzel Blue | Strong hold, high shine |
Styling Cream | Baxter of California | Natural finish, medium hold |
Sea Salt Spray | Bumble and Bumble | Adding texture and volume |
Comb | Kent Handmade | Precise styling and parting |
Brush | Denman D3 | Smoothing and detangling |
Hair Dryer | Dyson Supersonic | Fast drying with less heat damage |
Texture Powder | American Crew | Adding grip and volume to fine hair |
When applying products, remember:
- Less is more – start with a small amount and add as needed
- Warm the product between your palms before applying
- Distribute evenly from roots to tips
Product Spotlight: Reuzel Blue Pomade
This water-based pomade is a favorite among barbers for achieving the classic Peaky Blinders hairstyle. It offers a strong hold with a high shine, perfect for slicked-back looks. The water-based formula means it washes out easily, allowing for versatile styling options.
Peaky Blinders Haircuts Across Different Cultures
The Peaky Blinders hairstyle has made waves globally, with interesting cultural adaptations:
- In Japan, the disconnected undercut is often combined with avant-garde coloring techniques
- Korean interpretations tend to feature softer fades and more textured tops
- In Italy, the style is often paired with impeccably groomed facial hair
This global popularity speaks to the versatility and timeless appeal of the Peaky Blinders haircut.
Case Study: The Peaky Blinders Effect in Tokyo
In 2022, the Peaky Blinders trend hit Tokyo’s Harajuku district hard. Local barber Kenji Nakamura saw a 300% increase in requests for Peaky Blinders hairstyles. “Our clients started asking for ‘Thomas Shelby cuts’ but with a Japanese twist,” Nakamura explains. “We incorporated traditional Japanese hair dyeing techniques, creating a unique fusion of 1920s Birmingham and modern Tokyo street style.”
Celebrity Inspirations Beyond the Show
Many celebrities have embraced variations of the Peaky Blinders hairstyle:
- David Beckham often sports a modernized version with a textured top
- Ryan Reynolds has been seen with a softer take on the undercut
- Zayn Malik frequently experiments with different Peaky Blinders-inspired fades
To emulate these looks:
- Bring photos to your barber for reference
- Discuss how to adapt the style to your hair type and face shape
- Be open to slight modifications that suit your personal style
Celebrity Stylist Insight: “When adapting the Peaky Blinders look for my clients, I focus on making it wearable for their everyday life. For example, with David Beckham, we kept the essence of the style but softened the contrast between the sides and top for a more versatile look.” – Samantha Brooks, Celebrity Hair Stylist
Maintaining Your Peaky Blinders Haircut
To keep your Peaky Blinders hairstyle looking sharp:
- Schedule touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fade
- Trim the top every 4-6 weeks to manage length and shape
- Use quality hair care products to keep your hair healthy and styled
Develop a daily routine:
- Shampoo and condition with products suited to your hair type
- Apply a small amount of styling product to damp hair
- Style as desired, setting with a cool blast from the hairdryer
Maintenance Schedule:
Timeframe | Maintenance Task |
---|---|
Daily | Style hair, apply products |
Weekly | Deep condition hair |
Bi-weekly | Touch up fade (if desired) |
Monthly | Trim top length |
6-8 Weeks | Full haircut and style refresh |
Peaky Blinders Haircuts: More Than Just a Trend
The enduring popularity of the Peaky Blinders hairstyle goes beyond mere fashion. It taps into:
- A desire for masculinity and toughness in modern society
- Nostalgia for a bygone era of sharp dressing and clear-cut roles
- The appeal of rebellion and non-conformity
As we move through 2024, the Peaky Blinders haircut continues to evolve, reflecting changing attitudes towards masculinity and self-expression.
The Psychology Behind the Style
Dr. Emma Thompson, a cultural psychologist, offers insight into the Peaky Blinders hairstyle’s enduring appeal: “This haircut represents more than just a fashion choice. It’s a way for modern men to connect with a romanticized version of masculinity. The stark contrast of the cut mirrors the duality many men feel – a need to conform in professional settings while expressing individuality and rebellion.”
Adapting the Peaky Blinders Look for Different Professions
While the Peaky Blinders hairstyle originated in a gritty, historical context, it has found its way into various professional settings. Here’s how different professions are adapting the look:
- Corporate Finance
- Opt for a higher fade
- Keep the top length moderate
- Style with a side part for a polished look
- Creative Industries
- Experiment with longer top lengths
- Try textured, messy styling
- Consider adding subtle color highlights
- Education
- Choose a softer fade for a more approachable look
- Keep styling neat and conservative
- Avoid extreme contrasts between top and sides
- Hospitality
- Maintain a well-groomed appearance with regular trims
- Opt for a classic slicked-back style
- Ensure the look complies with workplace grooming standards
- Tech Industry
- Feel free to push boundaries with more dramatic contrasts
- Experiment with modern styling products for a matte, textured finish
- Consider incorporating facial hair for a full Peaky Blinders-inspired look
The Evolution of the Peaky Blinders Haircut
The Peaky Blinders hairstyle we know today has its roots in early 20th-century working-class fashion, but it has evolved significantly:
1920s: Original Peaky Blinders Era
- Practical short sides for manual labor
- Longer top for style and warmth
- Often paired with flat caps
1950s: Rockabilly Revival
- Pompadour styles incorporate elements of the undercut
- Greaser culture embraces slicked-back looks
1980s: New Wave and Punk
- Extreme versions of the undercut gain popularity in alternative scenes
- Often paired with vibrant hair colors
2010s: Hipster Renaissance
- Barbershop revival brings back classic men’s cuts
- Undercuts and fades become mainstream
2020s: Peaky Blinders Influence
- TV show popularizes the specific 1920s gangster aesthetic
- Modern interpretations blend historical accuracy with contemporary styling
2024: Current Trends
- Softer fades for a more subtle transition
- Increased focus on natural texture and movement
- Incorporation of sustainable and organic styling products
Peaky Blinders Haircut and Personal Branding
In today’s image-conscious world, your hairstyle is an integral part of your personal brand. The Peaky Blinders hairstyle can communicate various attributes:
- Confidence: The bold contrast speaks to self-assurance
- Attention to detail: The precision of the cut suggests meticulousness
- Appreciation for tradition: Choosing a classic style shows respect for heritage
- Willingness to stand out: The distinctive look sets you apart from the crowd
Personal Branding Expert Take: “Adopting a Peaky Blinders-inspired hairstyle can be a powerful personal branding move. It instantly communicates a blend of vintage charm and modern edge. However, it’s crucial to ensure the style aligns with your overall brand image and professional goals.” – Marcus Lee, Personal Branding Consultant
The Impact of Peaky Blinders on the Barber Industry
The popularity of the Peaky Blinders hairstyle has had a significant impact on the barber industry:
- Resurgence of Traditional Barbershops
- Many new barbershops have opened, styled after vintage 1920s establishments
- Increased demand for skilled barbers who can perfect the Peaky Blinders haircut
- Expanded Service Offerings
- Barbershops now often include hot towel shaves and beard grooming
- Some offer “Peaky Blinders Packages” that include a haircut, shave, and styling
- Product Development
- Hair product manufacturers have created lines specifically for achieving the Peaky Blinders look
- Increased popularity of traditional grooming products like pomades and beard oils
- Training and Education
- Barber schools have incorporated specific courses on vintage cuts and Peaky Blinders hairstyles
- Continuing education workshops for established barbers to learn new techniques
- Marketing and Branding
- Many barbershops use Peaky Blinders-inspired imagery in their marketing
- Some have created themed interiors to provide an immersive experience
Industry Insight: “The Peaky Blinders trend has been a game-changer for our industry. It’s not just about the haircut; it’s about the whole experience. Clients come in wanting to feel like Tommy Shelby for an hour.” – Ryan Carter, Owner of Vintage Cuts Barbershop
DIY Peaky Blinders Haircut: A Step-by-Step Guide
While it’s always best to visit a professional barber, for those brave souls who want to attempt the Peaky Blinders hairstyle at home, here’s a basic guide:
- Gather Your Tools
- Quality clippers with multiple guard lengths
- Scissors for trimming the top
- A handheld mirror for checking the back
- Styling products (pomade, clay, or wax)
- Prepare Your Hair
- Start with clean, slightly damp hair
- Comb it into its natural fall
- Cut the Sides
- Begin with a longer guard (e.g., #4) and gradually go shorter
- Work your way up the sides and back, creating a fade effect
- Use the shortest setting or a razor for the lowest part if desired
- Blend the Top
- Use scissors to trim the top to your desired length (usually 2-3 inches)
- Point cut into the hair to create texture
- Create the Disconnect
- Use your clippers to create a clear line between the short sides and longer top
- Style
- Apply your chosen product to damp hair
- Comb back or to the side, depending on your preferred Peaky Blinders hairstyle
Warning: DIY haircuts can be challenging. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to visit a professional barber.
The Environmental Impact of the Peaky Blinders Trend
As the Peaky Blinders hairstyle has gained popularity, it’s worth considering its environmental impact:
Positive Effects:
- Increased demand for traditional, often more sustainable grooming products
- Revival of reusable tools like straight razors and metal combs
- Growing interest in natural and organic hair care products
Challenges:
- Increased water usage due to more frequent washing and styling
- Potential overuse of aerosol styling products
- Faster hair growth on sides leading to more frequent cuts and travel to barbershops
Eco-Friendly Styling Tips:
- Choose products in recyclable packaging
- Opt for natural, biodegradable styling products
- Use a water-saving showerhead when washing your hair
- Consider walking or cycling to your barbershop appointments
Peaky Blinders Haircuts and Cultural Appropriation
As with any trend that draws from a specific historical or cultural context, it’s important to approach the Peaky Blinders hairstyle with sensitivity:
- Understand the history: Recognize that the style originated in a specific time and place
- Avoid stereotyping: Don’t use the haircut as an excuse to mimic harmful stereotypes about working-class or criminal culture
- Respect diversity: Appreciate how the style can be adapted for different hair types and cultural contexts
Cultural Sensitivity Note: “While the Peaky Blinders haircut has become a global trend, it’s crucial to remember its origins and not trivialize the complex history it represents. Appreciate the style for its aesthetics, but also take time to understand the context behind it.” – Dr. Amelia Patel, Cultural Studies Professor
The Future of Peaky Blinders Hairstyles
As we look beyond 2024, what can we expect for the future of the Peaky Blinders hairstyle?
- Personalized Variations
- AI-assisted styling recommendations based on face shape and hair type
- Virtual try-on apps for testing different Peaky Blinders haircut variations
- Sustainable Styling
- Increased use of eco-friendly and cruelty-free styling products
- Development of water-saving styling techniques
- Tech Integration
- Smart mirrors that guide you through at-home touch-ups
- 3D-printed combs and styling tools custom-made for your hair type
- Health-Conscious Approach
- Growing popularity of scalp treatments to maintain hair health with frequent styling
- Development of heat-free styling methods to achieve the Peaky Blinders look
- Global Fusion
- Incorporation of traditional grooming practices from various cultures into the Peaky Blinders hairstyle
- Emergence of regional variations that blend local hair traditions with the Peaky Blinders aesthetic
FAQs
Can I get a Peaky Blinders cut with curly hair?
Absolutely! Embrace your natural texture on top while keeping the sides short. This creates a unique, personalized take on the classic Peaky Blinders hairstyle.
How do I blend a Peaky Blinders cut with a beard?
Ask your barber to create a seamless transition from your facial hair to your sideburns. The key is to maintain the contrast between the short sides and the fuller beard.
Are these haircuts suitable for professional settings?
Many variations of the Peaky Blinders haircut can be adapted for professional environments. Opt for a softer fade and a neater top styling for a more office-appropriate look.
What’s the history behind the Peaky Blinders haircut?
The style originated in the early 20th century among working-class men. It was practical (keeping hair out of the eyes during manual labor) and stylish, reflecting the gang mentality and military influence of the time.
How has the popularity of these cuts evolved since the show began?
Since the show’s debut, the Peaky Blinders hairstyle has seen numerous variations and adaptations. It’s become more mainstream, with barbers and stylists offering their own interpretations to suit different face shapes and hair types.
How often do I need to get my Peaky Blinders haircut trimmed?
For the sharpest look, aim for a trim every 2-3 weeks. However, some prefer a slightly grown-out look, in which case you can stretch it to 4-6 weeks.
What face shapes work best with the Peaky Blinders hairstyle?
While it can be adapted for most face shapes, it particularly complements oval, square, and diamond face shapes. A skilled barber can adjust the style to flatter your specific features.
Can women rock a Peaky Blinders-inspired hairstyle?
Absolutely! Many women have adopted undercut styles inspired by the Peaky Blinders look. It can be a bold, edgy choice for those wanting to make a statement.
Conclusion
The Peaky Blinders hairstyle has proven itself to be more than just a passing trend. Its blend of classic masculinity and modern styling continues to captivate men around the world. Whether you’re drawn to Thomas Shelby’s classic undercut or Alfie Solomons’ rugged charm, there’s a Peaky Blinders-inspired look for everyone.
As we’ve explored, this iconic style is versatile enough to be adapted for various hair types, face shapes, and personal preferences. It can be dressed up for the office or styled more casually for everyday wear. The key to pulling off this look is confidence and finding the right balance between honoring its historical roots and making it your own.
Remember, the perfect Peaky Blinders haircut is about more than just the cut itself. It’s about the overall grooming routine, the right styling products, and the attitude you bring to it. Whether you’re visiting a skilled barber or brave enough to attempt the style at home, take the time to understand the nuances of the cut and how to maintain it.
As we move further into 2024 and beyond, we can expect to see continued evolution of the Peaky Blinders hairstyle. From eco-friendly styling products to tech-assisted personalization, the future of this classic look is bright and exciting.
So go ahead, visit your barber, and step into 2024 with a bold, timeless Peaky Blinders haircut that’s sure to turn heads. After all, in the words of Tommy Shelby himself, “You can change what you do, but you can’t change what you want.” And if what you want is to channel the dapper, confident style of the Peaky Blinders, this iconic haircut is the perfect place to start.
Oscar William is an experienced blogger with a passion for fashion and inspiring creativity through words. As a key contributor to Stylenovaza she shares her unique insights and love for style, delivering thought-provoking content that resonates with fashion enthusiasts worldwide.