If you’ve ever watched Peaky Blinders, chances are the sharp, bold hairstyles caught your attention just as much as the gripping storyline. The Peaky Blinders haircut has become one of the most popular men’s hairstyles in recent years — blending vintage British style with modern grooming trends.
Inspired by Cillian Murphy’s Peaky Blinders haircut, this iconic look combines a dramatic undercut with textured length on top. It’s edgy, stylish, and surprisingly versatile, making it perfect for men who want a bold yet clean appearance.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore the haircut’s name, history, variations, styling tips, and how to achieve the real-life Peaky Blinders haircut that actually works outside the TV screen.
What Is the Peaky Blinders Haircut?
The Peaky Blinders haircut is a sharp undercut style featuring:
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Very short or shaved sides and back
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Medium-length textured hair on top
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Strong contrast between the sides and crown
This bold contrast creates a rugged yet refined appearance — exactly what made the Birmingham gangsters look so intimidating.
Peaky Blinders Haircut Name
The official barber term for this style is:
Disconnected Undercut
However, it is widely known as:
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Peaky Blinders haircut
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Shelby haircut
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Tommy Shelby haircut
The Story Behind the Peaky Blinders Haircut
The haircut draws inspiration from early 1900s working-class British street styles. During that era, short sides were practical for hygiene and safety in industrial jobs.
The show’s creators modernized the look, turning it into a stylish and fashionable statement. That’s why the real life Peaky Blinders haircut is more wearable today than the historically accurate version.
Cillian Murphy Peaky Blinders Haircut Explained
The Cillian Murphy Peaky Blinders haircut is the most iconic version. His character, Tommy Shelby, sports:
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Tight skin fade on the sides
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Textured, layered top
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Natural matte finish
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Forward-styled fringe
Key Characteristics:
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High fade or disconnected undercut
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2–3 inches of hair on top
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Messy, textured finish
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Minimal shine for a rugged look
This version perfectly balances vintage toughness with modern elegance.
Undercut Peaky Blinders Haircut Variations
Not all Peaky Blinders haircuts look exactly the same. Here are some popular modern variations:
1. Classic Shelby Undercut
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High fade
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Long textured top
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Sharp contrast
2. Short Crop Peaky Style
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Low-maintenance
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Neat and professional
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Ideal for office wear
3. Textured Fringe Look
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Messy front
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Casual and youthful
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Great for thicker hair
4. Fade Undercut Hybrid
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Modern skin fade
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Blends smoothly
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Cleaner overall appearance
How to Ask Your Barber for the Peaky Blinders Haircut
When visiting your barber, clarity is key. Here’s exactly what to say:
Show a reference photo and mention:
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Disconnected undercut
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Skin fade on sides
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2–3 inches textured top
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Natural matte styling
Barber Instructions Cheat Sheet:
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Sides: 0 – 0.5 fade
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Back: High taper fade
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Top: Scissor cut, textured layers
How to Style the Peaky Blinders Haircut at Home
Styling plays a huge role in pulling off the Peaky Blinders look.
Products You’ll Need:
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Matte clay or pomade
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Light styling cream
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Texturizing spray
Styling Steps:
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Towel-dry hair until slightly damp
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Apply a small amount of matte product
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Use fingers to create texture
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Let it air-dry for a natural finish
Is the Peaky Blinders Haircut Suitable for You?
This haircut works best for:
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Oval face shapes
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Square jawlines
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Thick or medium-density hair
It may require adjustments for:
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Curly hair
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Thin or receding hairlines
A skilled barber can modify the real life Blinders haircut to suit nearly anyone.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your haircut sharp:
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Visit the barber every 2–3 weeks
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Trim the sides regularly
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Use quality styling products
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Avoid heavy gels
Why the Peaky Blinders Haircut Is Still Trending
This hairstyle remains popular because it offers:
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Timeless appeal
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Masculine edge
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Easy customization
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Social media influence
From Instagram to TikTok, the undercut Peaky haircut continues to dominate modern men’s grooming trends.
Read also <<< Patrick Mahomes Haircut
FAQs – Peaky Blinders Haircuts
What is the Blinders haircut called?
It’s technically called a disconnected undercut, but commonly known as the Peaky or Tommy Shelby haircut.
How long should the top be?
Typically between 2 to 4 inches, depending on your styling preference.
Is the Peaky haircut professional?
Yes. A toned-down version works perfectly in office environments.
Can I get the Blinders haircut with curly hair?
Absolutely. Your barber can adapt the cut to suit curly or wavy textures.
What face shape suits the Peaky haircut best?
Oval, square, and diamond face shapes benefit most.
Conclusion: Is the Peaky Blinders Haircut Worth Trying?
The Peaky Blinders haircut isn’t just a hairstyle — it’s a statement. Whether you’re inspired by Cillian Murphy’s Peaky haircut or simply love bold, masculine styles, this look offers versatility, attitude, and timeless appeal.
