By Peaky Blinders is the closest British TV has came to producing a show with the sartorial influence of Mad Men.
Ever since Cillian Murphy's glacial eyes first glared out from under that face-slashing flat cap in 2013, waistcoats, peak lapel long coats and shirts with the top button firmly fastened have been regular staples on high streets once again.
But even more than the clothes, the Peaky Blinders effect can be seen in male grooming.
"Cillian Murphy's under-cut has been inspiring barbers since its inception in the 1930s," explains Simon Crawford of Johnny's Chop Shop.
"Traditionally, it meant being shaved on the sides and keeping the weight on top."
"Since the show barbers have given it a modern twist, making it one of the most popular hairstyles to hit our streets in years.
"This is done by keeping the basic style but combining with a slick skin fade. It's sleek, stylish and very modern."
To maintain the look, Simon recommends getting the sides cut every few weeks and styling it by adding texturising spray over wet hair.
"Finish with some clay to give texture and flow," he adds.
As we move out of lockdown, there really is no reason to countenance a DIY job. There’s no way you can achieve a good skin-fade on your own, and it’s the quickest way to achieve razor burns and jagged bald patches. But if you still want to go ahead with it yourself – or have far too much trust in your partner – then follow our guide to at-home haircuts here. The very least you can is arm yourself with the right kit, from scissors to clippers. That rusty beard trimmer simply won’t do.
When you’ve got your cut, ask your barber to use a blow-dryer and a vent brush to train your new crop in the right direction (carry this out at home, too). Then, once the hairdresser is out of sight, ruin all of their hard work by placing a humungous baker boy cap on top of it. There are variations on the form, and it all depends on the type of hair you have. Some opt for a side parting, while others go for a quiff. Still, a textured French crop is the standard.
While we’re here, let’s talk about Peaky Blinders style. There’s a way to do it that won’t place you into fancy dress territory, and that’s by picking and choosing your items carefully. Don’t go the whole hog. A grandad collar shirt, tweed trousers and a pair of solid leather boots is a timeless look that subtly channels that iconic Peaky look. Check out our guide here, with advice from Stephanie Collie, who designed the gang’s uniform and based it on surprisingly stylish criminal mug shots from the early 20th century. (The history behind the cut itself is a little less cool. In the post-war era, many men would have a close shave to stave off lice.)
Now all you need is a flat cap and some chiselled cheekbones, and you're good to go.
Like this article? Sign up to our newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox
Need some positivity right now? Subscribe to Esquire now for a hit of style, fitness, culture and advice from the experts
