A comprehensive curation of the defining hairstyles, beard styles, and grooming products that define the gritty, elegant aesthetic of the Peaky Blinders era. This list helps men replicate the sharp, tailored looks of Thomas Shelby and his crew using modern techniques and period-accurate product choices.
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A modern take on the classic British fade, featuring extremely short sides and back with slightly longer hair on top. This style captures the clean-cut yet aggressive military influence seen throughout the series, requiring regular maintenance to keep the gradient sharp.
The iconic look defined by a deep side part and slicked-back hair that stays rigid all day. It relies heavily on strong-hold pomade or gel to achieve the glossy, controlled appearance that signifies authority and meticulous personal care.
Short, textured curls kept neat but not overly styled, reflecting Arthur's rougher, more volatile personality. This low-maintenance cut works well for men with naturally curly or wavy hair who want a rugged, authentic 1920s Birmingham look.
Oil-based or water-based pomades are essential for achieving the high-shine, firm hold characteristic of the era. These products allow for restyling throughout the day while preventing the flyaways that would break the historical illusion of the hairstyle.
Unlike the wild beards of some gangster films, Peaky Blinders characters typically sport clean, well-defined stubble or short, trimmed beards. This grooming choice emphasizes facial structure and aligns with the period's preference for polished masculinity.
Historically accurate for creating the tight waves and curls seen in the show, especially for characters with less natural texture. While less common today, this chemical process can help achieve the specific voluminous wave associated with Tommy Shelby's signature look.
A dramatic volume on top contrasting with shaved or very short sides, creating a bold silhouette. This style adds height and presence, mimicking the powerful stance of the gang leaders while maintaining a structured, disciplined appearance.
For longer hair variations, the hair is pulled back tightly into a low bun or knot at the nape. This practical yet stylish choice keeps hair out of the face during work or combat while maintaining the dark, sleek aesthetic of the Birminghan crew.
A specialized tool for keeping the thin, precise mustaches of the era neatly aligned and separated. Regular combing with beeswax ensures the mustache remains stiff and defined, acting as a crucial accessory to the overall serious demeanor of the characters.
Traditional lather used in classic barbershops for wet shaving, providing a closer shave and skin protection. Using these vintage methods aligns with the show's attention to period detail, offering both functional grooming and an immersive sensory experience.
Soothing balm used post-shave to reduce irritation and hydrate the skin, replacing the harsh alcohol-based splashes of today. This step is vital for maintaining the smooth, refined complexion required for the close-up, high-definition aesthetic of the series.
Many characters sport jet-black or very dark brown hair, which may require dye to maintain the intense contrast against their suits. Achieving this deep, uniform color enhances the dramatic, moody lighting often featured in the show's cinematography.
While not a haircut, styling hair to sit correctly under a flat cap is crucial for the complete look. The front bangs should be slightly textured to peek out from under the cap brim without looking messy or overly disheveled.
A subtle styling trick where hair behind the ears is tucked or trimmed very short to create a clean profile. This detail enhances the sharp, angular face shape emphasized by the sideburns and contributes to the character's intimidating presence.
For a more modern, understated interpretation of the Peaky look, matte clay provides hold without shine. This product suits contemporary wardrobes while still nodding to the gritty, non-greasy aesthetic associated with the working-class gangsters.
Essential for keeping short facial hair soft, shiny, and free of itchiness. Applying beard oil daily ensures that the stubble or short beard looks intentional and cared for rather than neglected, reflecting the characters' pride in their appearance.
A looser variation where the hair is allowed to fall naturally with minimal product, suitable for daily wear. This approach captures the casual moments in the series where characters are at home, showing a relaxed but still tidy version of their iconic style.
An obscure but authentic accessory used to keep long hair completely concealed under hats during outdoor work or travel. While rarely seen in close-ups, understanding its use adds depth to the historical accuracy of the overall grooming regimen.
Using stencils or guides to maintain symmetrical sideburns and cheek lines is key to the uniform look. Precision in these areas separates the Peaky Blinders aesthetic from general vintage styles, emphasizing discipline and organizational power.
Scents reminiscent of leather, tobacco, and old wood complement the visual aesthetic of the grooming routine. Choosing fragrances with historical roots completes the sensory experience, transporting the wearer back to the industrial era of post-WWI Britain.