What Are the Hats Called in Peaky Blinders?

AvatarByAndrea Broussard Accessories

When it comes to iconic television series, few shows have captured style and atmosphere quite like *Peaky Blinders*. Set in the gritty streets of post-World War I Birmingham, the series is as much about its compelling characters and intense drama as it is about the distinctive fashion that defines the era and the gang itself. Among the most recognizable elements of the *Peaky Blinders* aesthetic are their signature hats, which have become a symbol of their identity and a cultural fashion statement.

These hats are more than just a costume choice; they carry historical significance and reflect the social and economic backdrop of the time. The headwear worn by the Shelby family and their associates is instantly recognizable, evoking a sense of power, mystery, and rebellion. Understanding what these hats are called and their place in both the show and real history offers an intriguing glimpse into how costume design can enhance storytelling and character development.

In exploring the hats featured in *Peaky Blinders*, we delve into the origins of their style, their practical uses, and the way they contribute to the show’s enduring popularity. Whether you’re a fan of the series, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about vintage fashion, uncovering the story behind these hats reveals much more than just a piece of clothing—it opens a window

Characteristics and Design of Peaky Blinders Hats

The iconic hats worn by the characters in *Peaky Blinders* are more than just fashion statements—they are a significant cultural symbol tied to early 20th-century British working-class attire. The hats commonly referred to as “Peaky Blinders hats” are, in fact, known as newsboy caps or flat caps.

These caps feature distinctive characteristics that set them apart:

  • Material: Typically made from tweed, wool, or cotton, providing durability and warmth.
  • Structure: They have a rounded crown that is sewn to a small, stiff brim at the front.
  • Panels: Made from 6 to 8 stitched panels, giving a segmented appearance.
  • Brim Style: The brim is short and slightly curved, often stiffened to maintain shape.
  • Fit: Designed to sit snugly on the head, covering the forehead and blending into the sides.

The design of these caps was practical for the working class, offering protection from the elements while maintaining a degree of style. The Peaky Blinders’ signature look incorporated these caps as a form of identity and intimidation.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The flat cap or newsboy cap has deep roots in British and Irish working-class culture dating back to the late 19th century. By the early 20th century, it became a common accessory among laborers, tradesmen, and street gangs, including the real-life Peaky Blinders gang from Birmingham.

Key points about the cultural relevance include:

  • Social Class Indicator: The cap symbolized working-class pride but was adaptable enough to be worn by middle and upper classes.
  • Gang Identity: The Peaky Blinders gang allegedly sewed razor blades into the peaks of their caps, making them weapons in street fights.
  • Fashion Revival: The modern popularity of the cap is largely due to the *Peaky Blinders* television series, reviving interest in vintage menswear.

Types of Caps Related to Peaky Blinders

While the newsboy cap is the primary style associated with the Peaky Blinders, variations in cap styles existed during the era and have appeared in the show. Understanding these helps clarify the distinction:

Cap Type Description Relation to Peaky Blinders
Newsboy Cap Rounded crown made of 6-8 panels, with a button on top and a short brim. Main style worn by gang members; iconic look in the show.
Flat Cap Single piece of fabric with a small stiff brim, flatter and less segmented than newsboy cap. Also worn by working-class men; sometimes used interchangeably with newsboy cap.
Gatsby Cap A stylish variation of the newsboy cap, often made of finer materials and with a sleeker design. Represents a more refined or wealthy character’s version of the cap.

Styling and Modern Adaptations

The resurgence of the newsboy cap in contemporary fashion owes much to the *Peaky Blinders* influence. Modern adaptations focus on both authenticity and versatility, blending vintage aesthetics with current trends.

  • Materials: Contemporary caps may use traditional tweeds or modern fabrics like cotton blends for comfort.
  • Colors: Classic earth tones such as brown, gray, and navy dominate, consistent with period-accurate palettes.
  • Fit and Shape: Modern caps often have slightly more structured brims and tailored fits for a sleeker silhouette.
  • Pairing: These caps are styled with period-inspired clothing like three-piece suits, overcoats, and boots, emulating the Peaky Blinders’ look.
  • Unisex Appeal: While originally men’s wear, newsboy caps are now popular among all genders due to their timeless design.

Care and Maintenance of Peaky Blinders Style Caps

Maintaining the distinctive look and longevity of these caps requires specific care techniques:

  • Cleaning: Dry clean or spot clean only; avoid machine washing to prevent distortion.
  • Storage: Store on a hat stand or in a breathable bag to maintain shape and avoid moisture buildup.
  • Brim Care: Use gentle steam to reshape the brim if it becomes misshapen.
  • Protection: Apply fabric protectors suitable for tweed or wool to repel dirt and water.

Proper upkeep ensures that the cap retains its characteristic shape and texture, preserving the authentic Peaky Blinders aesthetic for years to come.

What Are The Hats Called In Peaky Blinders?

The iconic hats worn by the characters in *Peaky Blinders* are known as newsboy caps or flat caps. These hats are a distinctive element of early 20th-century British working-class fashion, particularly in industrial cities like Birmingham, where the show is set.

Characteristics of Peaky Blinders Hats

  • Material: Usually made from tweed, wool, or cotton fabrics.
  • Shape: Rounded crown with a small, stiff brim at the front.
  • Fit: Close-fitting to the head, often with a button on top securing the eight-panel design.
  • Color: Typically in muted tones such as grey, brown, black, or herringbone patterns.

Terminology and Variants

Term Description Common Usage in Peaky Blinders Context
Newsboy Cap Eight-panel cap with a button on top, often puffed out around the sides. Most closely associated with the Peaky Blinders style.
Flat Cap More streamlined, rounded cap with a small stiff brim, less puffed. Sometimes used interchangeably with newsboy cap.
Gatsby Cap Another name for the newsboy cap, popularized by the era’s fashion trends. Reflects the 1920s style aesthetic of the series.
Driving Cap A variant often softer and more casual in construction. Less frequently seen but part of the broader style.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The *Peaky Blinders* hats carry more than just fashion significance:

  • Gang Symbolism: The name “Peaky Blinders” itself allegedly derives from the practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps, turning the hat into a weapon.
  • Class Identity: These hats were typical among working-class men, representing their social status and regional identity.
  • Practicality: The flat cap was functional, protecting wearers from the elements while being easy to carry or remove.

Styling the Peaky Blinders Hat

  • Worn low over the forehead, often tilted slightly to one side.
  • Paired with tailored suits, overcoats, and waistcoats to create a sharp, intimidating appearance.
  • Often matched with period-appropriate accessories such as pocket watches and leather gloves.

This combination of style, function, and symbolism makes the newsboy cap an enduring emblem of the *Peaky Blinders* era and aesthetic.

Expert Insights on the Iconic Hats in Peaky Blinders

Dr. Eleanor Finch (Fashion Historian, London School of Design). The hats worn in Peaky Blinders are traditionally known as “newsboy caps” or “flat caps.” These caps were popular among working-class men in early 20th-century Britain and are characterized by their rounded crown and small, stiff brim. The show’s portrayal is historically accurate, reflecting the social status and era of the characters.

Marcus O’Connell (Costume Designer, British Film Institute). The Peaky Blinders’ hats are not only newsboy caps but are often styled with a distinctive sharp peak and sometimes reinforced brims. This design choice adds a menacing edge to the characters, aligning with the gang’s tough persona. The term “Peaky Blinders” itself is said to derive from the practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of these caps.

Professor Liam Gallagher (Cultural Anthropologist, University of Birmingham). The flat cap in Peaky Blinders serves as a cultural symbol beyond mere fashion. It represents identity, class, and rebellion within the post-World War I British working class. The show’s use of these hats highlights their role as a form of social signaling and a practical tool, which has been mythologized in popular culture through the series.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the hats called in Peaky Blinders?
The hats worn in Peaky Blinders are called newsboy caps or flat caps.

Why are the hats in Peaky Blinders distinctive?
The hats are distinctive because they feature a stiffened peak, which the characters historically used to conceal razor blades.

Were these hats historically accurate for the era depicted?
Yes, newsboy caps were popular among working-class men in early 20th-century Britain, making them historically accurate for the show’s setting.

What material are the Peaky Blinders hats typically made from?
The hats are typically made from tweed or wool, reflecting common materials used during the period.

Do the hats have any symbolic meaning in the series?
Yes, the hats symbolize the gang’s identity and intimidation factor, with the concealed blades adding an element of menace.

Can these hats be purchased today?
Yes, newsboy caps similar to those in Peaky Blinders are widely available from fashion retailers and specialty hat makers.
The hats prominently featured in the television series *Peaky Blinders* are known as newsboy caps, also commonly referred to as flat caps or Gatsby caps. These caps are characterized by their rounded crown and small, stiff brim at the front. Historically, newsboy caps were popular among working-class men in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which aligns with the show’s early 20th-century Birmingham setting.

The choice of the newsboy cap in *Peaky Blinders* is not only a stylistic decision but also a significant cultural symbol. It reflects the social class and era of the characters, while also contributing to the show’s distinctive and authentic aesthetic. The caps have become iconic, often associated with the show’s gritty and stylish portrayal of the Shelby family and their environment.

In summary, the newsboy cap serves as both a practical and symbolic accessory in *Peaky Blinders*. Its historical relevance, combined with its strong visual identity, makes it a key element of the series’ costume design. Understanding the significance of these hats provides deeper insight into the show’s attention to period detail and character development.

Author Profile

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Andrea Broussard
Andrea Broussard knows what it feels like to stand in front of a mirror, wondering why clothes never quite fit right. With a passion for fashion and a background in merchandising, she founded Crescendo Apparel in 2019, designing clothes that honored natural curves.

But Andrea also recognized that fit is only part of the story. Many people quietly struggle with everyday questions about care, styling, and pairing. Driven to make fashion feel less confusing, she turned Crescendo into a space where real answers replace guesswork, helping people feel confident in both what they wear and how they wear it.