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Additionally, discover expert tips for styling each unique look
The hit Netflix show Peaky Blinders has driven fans to embrace the vintage flair of the gang’s distinctive haircuts. The majority of Peaky Blinders styles are variations of the classic undercut, and many viewers choose this bold cut to honor the iconic Thomas Shelby and his crew. Below, find a comprehensive guide on achieving these sharp hairstyles, with tips on how to ask your barber for the perfect cut and style.
How to Achieve the Look
What defines the Peaky Blinders haircut?
The Peaky Blinders hairstyle features a clean undercut with shaved sides and back. While each character sports a unique style on top, the signature undercut is a defining feature of all the looks. Additionally, Peaky Blinders haircuts often include a fade, where the hair gradually shortens along the sides until it blends seamlessly into the skin.
- The Peaky Blinders haircut is historically rooted. Known as both an undercut and a textured crop, it originally emerged in Glasgow with the Neds gang. It was also favored by Peaky Blinders characters and early 20th-century street gangs in England, where longer hair was seen as a disadvantage in street brawls.
Thomas Shelby: Textured Crop Style
Thomas' signature look features a French crop with a sharp, tapered undercut. His hairstyle was slightly longer on top, which seamlessly faded into the shorter sides. This cut is the most adaptable of all the Peaky Blinders styles and flatters almost every face shape and hair texture. Throughout the series, Thomas adjusted his style slightly, so pick the version that suits your vibe the most.
- Ideal for: This cut is incredibly versatile and complements virtually any face shape. You can style the top longer hair either swept forward, to the side, or messy—since Thomas sported all these variations across different seasons.
Tell your barber to go for a #3 crop, keeping the sides and back short. Request that the top be left a bit longer so it can be styled forward or swept to one side as a fringe. Ask the barber to thin the edges of the crop so that they naturally blend into the undercut.
For styling, use pomade to add texture and definition to the top. Comb the hair however you like, then warm up a small amount of pomade in your hands. Run your fingers through your hair to create a tousled, textured look that holds throughout the day.
Arthur Shelby: Slicked-back Undercut Look
Arthur’s version features significantly longer hair on top. The sharp contrast between Arthur's longer, slicked-back top and the ultra-short undercut gives a bold and dramatic look, mirroring his intense character. Occasionally, Arthur lets the longer top hair fall to one side, so it doesn’t always have to be styled straight back.
- Best suited for: This cut flatters most face shapes, particularly if you have straight, fine hair that can easily be slicked back.
Let your top hair grow a few inches and ask for a grade 1 undercut. The top length is up to you, depending on whether you want it slicked back or flowing to one side. Be sure your barber cuts the back and sides extremely short to create that striking undercut contrast.
To style it, blow-dry your hair and apply a small amount of pomade. Apply styling pomade to slightly damp hair, then comb the longer top section while blow-drying it straight back. For extra hold, finish off with a light mist of hairspray to set the look.
John Shelby: Undercut Crop Style
John Shelby's undercut features a more modest, shorter top section. John opts for a cleaner, simpler hairstyle compared to his brothers, offering a more manageable and easy-to-maintain cut.
- Best for: John Shelby’s crop is ideal for men who prefer a no-fuss style. It requires minimal effort to maintain, making it perfect for those who don’t want to spend much time styling their hair.
Ask your barber for a disconnected undercut with a short crop on top. Request that the sides of your head be shaved while leaving the top cropped short for a clean, sharp look.
Style with spray wax or styling pomade. Apply your preferred product to your hair, then blow-dry the top section back, guiding the hair in a downward direction for a sleek finish that stays close to the scalp.
Michael Gray: Classic Side Part Style
Michael Gray’s cut is a gentler, more traditional 1920s side part. Known as the Ivy League cut, it features a longer crew cut with a precise, neat side part and tapering on the sides. It’s a timeless, understated look with far less contrast compared to other Peaky Blinders characters' styles.
- Best suited for: Michael Gray’s Ivy League cut is perfect for those who prefer a softer, vintage look without the sharp contrast seen in other characters' hairstyles.
Ask your barber for a 1920s-style Ivy League cut. The cut should feature a strong side part with the back and sides cropped using scissors for a smooth, feathered appearance and gradual transition. You can also request a cut-throat razor to sharpen and define the side part for a more refined look.
Style your hair by creating a clean part while it’s still damp. Apply grooming gel or styling cream to your longer top section and natural waves. For added control, you can also blow-dry with a round brush. To finish, comb the hair into place and use a light hairspray for hold.
Isaiah Jesus: Short Tapered Curls Style
Isaiah Jesus rocks an undercut with textured curls on top. This look is ideal for wavy, curly, or kinky hair, and its sharp undercut, without a fade, makes the style stand out dramatically.
- Best suited for: Isaiah’s style is perfect for men who want to highlight their natural curls and add volume to their look.
Ask your barber for a short crop that highlights your natural curl pattern. Ensure your undercut contrasts well with the longer top section, making the curls pop against the shorter sides.
To style, tousle your curls and use anti-frizz oil. Enhance your curls by applying a curl-enhancing cream designed for natural or African-American hair.
Alfie Solomons: Messy Crop with Beard Style
Alfie Solomons' look highlights a rugged, lumberjack-inspired beard. His haircut is a longer version of the Ivy League style, complemented by a full, thick beard that adds to the overall look.
- Best for: Alfie Solomons' style is designed for those who prioritize their facial hair over their head hair. It’s ideal for individuals who enjoy focusing on their beard grooming.
Ask your barber for a longer variation of the Ivy League cut. Pair the cut with a full, lumberjack-style beard. Consult your barber on the best spot for the neck shave line to create a clean, sharp look that matches the beard length you desire. For guidance on growing a beard, check this resource to get tips on beard growth.
To style, blow-dry your side part into place. Dry your hair and form a side part using styling pomade to create volume and hold the shape. Maintain your mustache and beard with scissors and a beard comb. Finish with beard oil to ensure your facial hair stays healthy and well-groomed.
