Let's take a moment to step back in time to the early 1900s; a style time made newly fashoinable thanks to the well-tailored exploits of a certain Shelby family and their, ahem, business associates. The Peaky Blinders period, saw men's fashion consist of three-piece suits, heavy overcoats, penny collar shirts and of course the ultimate accessory - the flat cap! This vintage style has made its way into groomswear, and given how dapper it can look, it's understandable that so many grooms and their wedding party are emuhlating it. So before you get started on choosing your own turn of the century look, read our guide on how to style your groomswear as inspired by Peaky Blinders.
The Story Behind The Peaky Blinders
But first, for anyone who is unfamiliar with the hit series, let us give you some background. Peaky Blinders is drama series set in 1920s Birmingham, and the fictious plot centres around a real-life family of gangsters, The Shelbys. The central role - ambitious, clever, and elegantly dressed Tommy Shelby - is played by Cork legend, Cillian Murphy, and with his sharp looks and tastes, it's no wonder he has spawned a dedicated fashion following. But where does the name come from? Well, Peaky Blinders were known for their flat peaked hats, tweed suits and impeccable details such as cufflinks, tie pins and neckwear. Contrary to popular myth the name does not relate to hidden razor blades, but in fact, a 'blinder' is Brummy blang for an elegant gentleman.
The Suit
Tailoring is the main component of the Peaky Blinders look, so make an investment in a good suit, ideally in navy or charcoal. Bespoke is best for that made to measure look, but there are seriously dapper suits available off the rack too. Keep an eye out for fabrics and prints synonymous wiht the period, such as tweed, herringbone, checks and plaid. And remember the devil in the detail - opt for a three-piece suit - the more layers the better. Our style tip is to ask your tailor for trouser that are slightly shorter and narrower than standard trouser suit legs.
Where to buy:
- Magee 1866
- Hanley & Co
- Wolf in Wool
- Benetti Menswear
- Louis Copeland & Sons
- Celtic Tweed
- Harris Tweed
- Tux and Tails
- Cavani
The Hat
The number one accessory to top off your Peaky Blinders groomswear style - pardon the pun - is the flat cap or a newsboy cap. What is the difference between the two? The flat cap, as the name suggests, is a harder, rounder and flatter style of hat that is most commonly made from leather or cotton. A newsboy cap, sometimes called an eight-panel or gatsby cap, is more baggy, because it is sewn together from the top of the hat, unlike a flat cap.
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The Shirt
When it comes to the shirt, this is one element you have a bit more freedom with. For a more carefree, youthful and relaxed style, with no neckwear, opt for a collarless grandfather shirt. If you prefer a more formal shirt, a short and rounded penny or club collar is a great option with a real vintage edge. But a standard shirt collar will also work, but one thing is for sure - your shirt must fit perfectly. Why not Tommy Shelby it up and opt for pinstripes?
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The Overcoat
To really achieve the Peaky Blinders style, your ideal outerwear, especially for the groom, should be fitted, heavy and long. Keep to dark shades of charcoal grey, midnight navy, deep forest green, brown or of course classic black.
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The Shoes
Oxford laced boots and brogue boots are certainly the most popular style for Peaky Blonder-inspired groomswear, but if a boot is not for you - a leather laced dress shoe in black or brown is a great timeless alternative. We have some great groomswear shoe brands right here for you to choose from.
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Bowties & Neck Scarves
If you're wearing neckwear, a bow tie and matching pocket square is an absolute must to complement your Peaky Blinders groomswear style! The Shelby gentlemen sported a few different styles over the course of the series, such as ties, silk scarves and bow ties, to keep their style sharp.
Where to buy:
- Magee 1866
- House of Cavani
- Mrs Bowtie
- Le Colonel Moutarde
- The Tie Bar
- Orwell and Browne
- Belfast Bow Company
- Emma Ashford
The Accessories
Pin ties, cuff links, pocket watches, leather gloves, Albert chains (and cheeky hip flasks for sneaky snifters) are all a must for your vintage attire. Best of all, these can all make for great gifts for your groomsmen too. Why not go a bit further and think about personalising these accessories with special engraving to mark the occasion.
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All that's next to finish the look is to ace the grooming! We also have expert tips for choosing your ideal suit, take a look right here!
