The Inspiration Behind Our New Peaky Blinders Collection

The Inspiration Behind Our New Peaky Blinders Collection

The Peaky Blinders movie is on the horizon, and interest in 1920s style is rising again. At Brynels, that era is close to home—both geographically and culturally. Our latest range revisits Birmingham’s streets a century ago and brings the look forward for modern wardrobes. The centrepiece? A finely made baker boy hat that feels as sharp today as it did back then.

A Nod to 1920s Birmingham

In the early twentieth century, Birmingham’s workers wore sturdy wool caps with short peaks, practical gear for long days in factories and foundries. Yet those same caps became symbols of swagger when the Peaky Blinders story hit screens. Our design team walked those old lanes, visited local archives, and studied original garments. The goal was simple: keep the attitude, lose the weight. The result is a lighter, softer shape that still carries the grit of Small Heath.

Why the Baker Boy Cap Still Endures

A baker boy cap does three things well:

  1. Adds shape – The eight-panel crown sits higher than a beanie and frames the face.
  2. Travels easily – It folds flat and pops back into form, unlike a stiff fedora.
  3. Bridges smart and casual – Pair it with a wool coat or a leather jacket; both work. 

When we cut our first sample, we used Donegal tweed for texture, then switched to a lighter merino blend for spring. Each men's baker boy flat cap is lined with soft cotton to keep it breathable indoors.

Bringing the Screen to Street Style

We’ve kept two key details fans will spot:

  • The low, curved peak that sits close to the brow.
  • A single back seam that keeps the crown neat.

But we stepped away from heavy greys. Instead, we added muted greens, rust, and midnight navy—colours that echo factory bricks and canal water without feeling like a costume. In testing, these shades proved easy to match with denim, chinos, and even tailored trousers. 

Craftsmanship at Brynels

Every cap passes through five pairs of hands:

  • Pattern-cutting – ensuring each panel lines up. 
  • Embroidery – a subtle Brynels mark under the inner band.
  • Hand pressing – shaping the crown with steam for a clean drape.
  • Stitching – tight seams that hold through daily wear.
  • Final check – peak curves, lining lies flat, no loose threads.

That care is why our baker boy caps sit snug without pinching and keep their shape season after season. 

How to Wear a Baker Boy Cap Today 

  • With a coat – Throw a camel overcoat over dark jeans and boots. The cap anchors the look.
  • With a suit – Choose a cap in a shade close to your jacket. Tilt it slightly back once indoors.
  • With weekend layers – A roll-neck, field jacket, and cap will keep you warm without bulk. 

If you prefer softer lines, try one of our lightweight linen baker boy flat caps when the weather warms. For colder months, the wool-blend version holds heat yet breathes. 

What’s Next 

The Peaky Blinders range is only the start. Alongside these baker boy caps, Brynels offers Trilbies & Porkpies, Fedoras & Homburgs, Baseball Caps, and Beanies in our men’s collection. Each piece is built with the same focus on fit, fabric, and heritage. Browse the line, choose your style, and step into the new season with confidence.

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