So, what is a Peaky Blinder cap?
You’ve probably seen it before—even if you didn’t know the name. That full, rounded flat cap worn by Tommy Shelby and the lads in Peaky Blinder is more than just a TV costume. It’s based on real working-class fashion worn across Ireland and Britain for over a century.
A true Peaky Blinder cap is usually an eight-panel flat cap—also called a newsboy or baker boy cap. It’s got a fuller shape than a standard flat cap, with a stitched-down peak and a button on top where all the panels come together.
The Irish roots of the cap
Though the series is set in Birmingham, the Peaky Blinder cap has long been part of Irish life. Known here as the Irish flat cap, it became a staple centuries ago—worn by farmers, tradesmen, and lads heading off to mass. It was practical, warm, and part of the everyday look.
The tradition goes back to a 1571 law that encouraged wool caps to boost the local wool trade. Ireland took it up and made it our own. Today, the Irish flat cap is a symbol of our heritage—and a cap you’ll still see worn with pride.
Cillian Murphy brought it back—but we’ve been wearing it all along
When Cork actor Cillian Murphy took on the role of Thomas Shelby, he made the Peaky Blinder cap iconic around the world. But here in Ireland, it’s been iconic for generations.
Murphy’s style in the show—three-piece suits, long coats, and that cap pulled low over his eyes—got people talking. But the cap itself? That’s been part of Irish life for over 100 years.
What makes a proper Peaky Blinder cap?
Here’s what to look for:
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Eight-panel construction with a button at the crown
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Short, stitched-down peak to give it shape
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Heavy wool or tweed, often in herringbone patterns
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Made in Ireland, not churned out somewhere cheap
This isn’t fashion for the sake of it. It’s heritage you can wear.
One to wear: our Peaky Blinder Patch Cap
If you want the real thing, we’ve got you covered. Our Peaky Blinder Patch Cap is made here in Ireland using traditional methods and materials. It’s warm, sharp, and built to last.
Watch our video as Aidan shows from our collection
Why buy from Gifts of Ireland?
Because we know Irish caps—and we only sell the good ones.
This isn’t a gimmick. It’s the kind of cap our grandfathers wore, and the kind we’re proud to keep alive today. Our Irish flat caps are made properly, using wool and tweed that feel right from the moment you put them on.
Explore more styles: Irish Flat Caps Collection
