Peaky blinders' hair evolution: the softening of a legend

Thirteen years after its debut, the Netflix film The Immortal Man offers a glimpse into the enduring appeal of Peaky Blinders, and a fascinating evolution in one of its most recognizable symbols: Tommy Shelby's haircut.

From razor-sharp undercut to textured sophistication

The series’ initial success wasn't just about its compelling narrative; it was a cultural phenomenon fueled, in part, by the meticulously crafted aesthetic. The sharp, high-and-tight undercut, instantly associated with Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of Tommy Shelby, became a sought-after style. The Telegraph even reported an 83 percent surge in waistcoat and flatcap sales following the show's initial run – a phenomenon dubbed the “Peaky Blinders effect.”

“Tommy Shelby’s haircut has evolved from a very contrasting, disconnected undercut in the earlier seasons, to something softer, natural and more mature,” explains Maxwell Oakley, co-founder of luxury barbershop Supply 91. “The updated cut keeps a similar shape – short sides and longer on top – but this time it’s with a subtle blend, and the top is textured and relaxed, reflecting his progression from a young aggressive gangster into a more powerful and refined figure.”

This shift isn’t confined to the fictional world. A broader trend towards softer, more lived-in hairstyles is sweeping through menswear, embraced by figures like Timothée Chalamet, Harry Styles, and countless online influencers. The clean-shaven skin-fade, once a dominant force, appears to be fading into memory.

So, how does one achieve this modern Peaky Blinders-inspired look? Oakley recommends a short back and sides with a clipper grade 3 or 4, followed by a textured blend and length on top. It’s a versatile style that suits a wide range of individuals, a far cry from the rigid uniformity of the earlier iterations.

The enduring fascination with Peaky Blinders highlights how style can mirror character development, and how a seemingly small detail – a haircut – can resonate with a global audience.