Peaky Blinders Film Sparks Major Fashion Revival Across High Streets
After a four-year absence, the gritty world of Peaky Blinders has made a dramatic return, this time in cinematic form with Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, now available for streaming on Netflix. While the film delivers the intense drama and complex power struggles that fans have come to expect from the Shelby family saga, it is also quietly reigniting one of fashion's most unexpected and influential movements.
The Return of Iconic Shelby Style
At the core of the new film is Tommy Shelby, portrayed once again by Cillian Murphy, who is living in isolated seclusion in a decaying countryside mansion, tormented by the psychological aftermath of World War I. His sister Ada, played by Sophie Rundle, draws him back to Birmingham to confront unresolved family matters, specifically involving his illegitimate son Duke, portrayed by Barry Keoghan, who has become embroiled in a dangerous political conspiracy. This narrative thrusts Tommy back into the treacherous world he had desperately tried to escape.
Naturally, this return also means the triumphant comeback of the iconic Peaky Blinders wardrobe. From impeccably sharp three-piece suits and elegantly tailored overcoats to classic pocket watches and the ever-recognisable flat cap, the film offers a masterclass in masculine tailoring. Complemented by a moody soundtrack featuring artists like Nick Cave and Fontaines D.C., the overall aesthetic remains as visually and culturally impactful as ever.
The Shelby Effect Hits Retail Markets
The influence of the film extends far beyond the cinema screen, making a significant impact on contemporary fashion retail. According to data from John Lewis, searches for items such as ties, tweed fabrics, and flat caps have experienced a dramatic surge since the film's release. This phenomenon, dubbed the 'Shelby Effect', demonstrates how costume inspiration has evolved into everyday wardrobe essentials.
Jessica Paton, Menswear Buying Manager at John Lewis, commented, 'Peaky Blinders is back and John Lewis customers are embracing the looks of the notorious gangsters. From the classic flat cap to a surge in tweed staples, these items have moved from costume to contemporary wardrobe essentials.'
What makes this revival particularly noteworthy is how the aesthetic has successfully crossed over into womenswear. Searches for check skirts, pinstripe blazers, and waistcoats have skyrocketed, indicating a broader cultural shift towards heritage tailoring that feels both nostalgically authentic and refreshingly modern.
Heritage Fabrics and Timeless Tailoring
Costume designer Alison McCosh, who contributed to seasons four through six of the original television series as well as the new film, is not surprised by this resurgence. 'Fashion is cyclical,' she explains. 'Heritage fabrics have always been consistent. Perhaps it is the influence of period films and television shows that have caught the attention. It is certainly good to see it on the high street.'
Traditional fabrics such as checks, tweeds, and pinstripes, once firmly rooted in menswear, are now being creatively reimagined across womenswear collections. These materials offer a sense of structure, rich texture, and understated confidence that resonates deeply with contemporary consumers.
'Tailoring is very powerful,' McCosh emphasises. 'I love a well-tailored suit for women. It makes you feel confident and looks effortless.' This emotional connection—how clothing influences self-perception—has cemented the Shelby aesthetic as more than a fleeting trend. It represents a form of self-expression grounded in strength and deliberate intention.
From Screen to Street: Styling the Look
In the film, Ada Shelby's wardrobe perfectly encapsulates this evolution. Her skirt suits, crafted from heritage fabrics and subtly updated with bold dye treatments, feel both period-authentic and strikingly contemporary. 'They draped beautifully,' McCosh notes. 'What woman wouldn't want that?'
For those inspired to incorporate elements of the Shelby style into their own wardrobes, McCosh recommends starting with simplicity. 'Find a shape and a fabric that works well for you and build upon that,' she advises. 'I am a huge fan of vintage shopping—you will find some of the best treasures. It feels more valuable.'
Consider pairing a sharply cut blazer with relaxed trousers, layering a waistcoat over a crisp shirt, or combining a heritage-check skirt with modern boots. The key is to focus on attitude rather than costume, allowing personal style to shine through.
Evolution of Style Across Generations
While the film remains faithful to its distinctive visual identity, there are subtle evolutions in character wardrobes. Tommy Shelby's silhouette remains consistent—strong, masculine, and unmistakably Shelby—yet it reflects a quieter, more introspective phase of his life. In contrast, Duke introduces a rebellious edge with a rugged, gypsy-inspired wardrobe, providing a fresh counterpoint to the polished aesthetic of the older generation.
Perhaps the most compelling transformation belongs to Ada. 'I wanted her costumes to be powerful and stand out,' McCosh reveals. 'I have truly enjoyed seeing her develop into a strong, powerful woman. She owns it.'
The Lasting Influence of Peaky Blinders
The verdict is clear: the Shelby era is far from over. If anything, The Immortal Man demonstrates that the influence of Peaky Blinders extends well beyond the screen. It serves as a powerful reminder that exceptional costume design does not merely support a narrative—it actively shapes cultural trends.
Currently, culture is embracing tailoring, texture, and timelessness with renewed enthusiasm. The Shelby effect has returned, and this time, it is inclusive and accessible to everyone, proving that great style transcends both time and gender.
