The gang of men that adorned the small screen in the hit series Peaky Blinders have become iconic with their style and particularly the hats they wear. The look was born in 1919 in the streets of Birmingham, England where young men from working-class backgrounds would don the Peaky Blinder hats that originated the style. But what are the caps these stylish men are wearing?
These hats are often referred to as a ‘flat cap’ or ‘newsboy cap’, although other terms such as the ‘cabbie cap’ or ‘scally cap’ are also used. The waist-length peaked style caps feature a rounded back that converges into a flat top. They also often have a visor in the front and sometimes a button at the top. The flat caps are typically made from tweed material with a short brim.
The skull caps, as they are sometimes called, were popular among the working-class of Britain in the 19th century. The working men of the time went for the functional and affordable option, making the caps a common sight in the busy streets of Birmingham. The hat gained the name of Peaky Blinder due to the wearer’s habit of cutting a small peak into the front and then curving up the sides for a stylish finish. It is believed that the sharp spike of the cap could act as a weapon in a fight.
As the trend continued into the 20th century, the Peaky Blinders cap began to come on the radar of stylish upper-class men. It was then adopted by celebrities in Europe and the US, with its popularity peaking again in the 21st century.
Grace Crowther, a popular fashion & lifestyle blogger, suggests that the modern take on Peaky Blinders caps is a little more colorful and glamorous. She adds, “The modern version includes more vibrant colors and patterns and is a bold choice for any man looking to stand out in the crowd.”
Crowther agrees that the hats have become one of the most iconic fashion items associated with the culture of the British Isles. It has been featured in some of the most popular skater videos and fashion shoots, as well as the Peaky Blinders TV show.
However, today’s version of the hat is a far cry from its origins. The use of tweed is still present, but its material is often blended with other fabrics for a softer feel, and the colors are vibrant and varied. The modern trend was given an extra shot of cool when it was featured in a Supreme advertisement a few years back.
Peaky Blinders Caps for Women
The Peaky Blinders caps are not just for men and the trend has since begun to go mainstream. In 2019, a major international fashion magazine featured the hat in its “Women’s Wear” section and within the year it graced many female celebrities. It has since become a popular choice amongst trendsetters and fashionistas across the world.
Just like their male counterparts, the modern female versions usually have a far shorter peak and a slightly looser fit. The colors and patterns are also more feminine, including floral prints and pastel shades. One of the most popular features of the female version is the addition of pompoms that give them a fun and playful look.
Designer Peaky Blinders Caps
Many high-end fashion houses have taken advantage of the Peaky Blinders trend due to its universal appeal. In 2020, Louis Vuitton debuted their version of the hat as part of their “Men’s Day” collection. The hats feature a slightly shorter peak and are made from luxurious materials such as lambskin and velvet.
In response to the high demand, many luxury fashion houses have included versions of the Peaky Blinders cap in their collections. These exclusive designs are often handmade and feature intricate stitching work and fabrics that are not available in the mass-produced hats.
Modern Adaptations
In the decade since the show first aired, Peaky Blinders caps have far exceeded the realm of fashion and media. They’ve made their way into all aspects of popular culture, from cosplay to hip-hop artists, and there are now several online stores that specialize in Peaky Blinders caps.
The hats have also become a favorite amongst skateboarders and cyclists, who have adopted the classic silhouette for an edgier look. The lightweight design and visible brims make them a practical accessory for outdoor activities.
The Peaky Blinders Legacy
The Peaky Blinders caps are more than just a trend, it is a fashion statement now part of our culture. The influence of the iconic look created in the slums of Birmingham has extended in the last century to become an international phenomenon. What began as a sartorial symbol for the working-class men of England has now become a symbol of rebellion, style, and sophistication for men and women around the world.
The Peaky Blinders caps are not just a fashion item, but a reminder of the strong-willed attitude of those men who dared to reinvent their style and their lives.
Popular Events Showcasing Peaky Blinders Caps
As the trend for Peaky Blinders caps continues to grow, so does the number of events showcasing the headwear. From “Peaky Blinders”-themed parties to hat shows, it seems that the fashionable choicenever goes out of style.
In 2020, one of the most popular events in the US was the Chicago Hat Show, which showcased dozens of styles in different colors and fabrics. The event attracted fashionistas not only from the US but from around the world, all attracted by the iconic look of the Peaky Blinders caps.
Dubious Origins of the Peaky Blinders Caps
The Peaky Blinders caps have a long and complicated history behind them. Many believed that the style was invented by young men of the slums of Birmingham, England in the late 1800s as a way to differentiate themselves from other gangs that roamed the city.
However, recently unearthed documents suggest that the style of the hats had been around for decades before this. This adds to the lore and mystery of the caps, making them an even more desirable item for fashionistas and fans of the TV show worldwide.
Celebrity Endorsements of Peaky Blinders Caps
Along with its inclusion in media and fashion shows around the world, the Peaky Blinders caps have been endorsed by various celebrities. Although most of them are men, there are some female celebrities that swear by the “Peaky Blinders” look. Most of them can be seen sporting the caps during events and occasions, and many of them have been known to post pictures of themselves rocking the look.
In recent years, several well-known actors have been vocal about their love of the cap, including Robert Downey Jr., Hugh Jackman, and Brad Pitt. This shows that the influence of the Peaky Blinders caps continues to extend even among the rich and powerful.
DIY Peaky Blinders Caps
The popularity of Peaky Blinders caps in recent years has created a surge in demand for hats of this style. With the help of several store-bought and DIY tutorials, it’s now easier than ever to make your own hat. Craft stores now offer kits so that anyone can make their own cap with a few simple steps.
The rise of DIY projects and online communities has also provided more outfit inspiration for those looking to stand out with a unique Peaky Blinders style. Twitter and Instagram are overflowing with ideas and tips on how to make and accessorize the perfect cap.
