Peaky Blinders Tattoos

The newer and more innovative television gets, the more we seem to want to look back.

There are so many gorgeous textures to explore from yesteryear and the shows that capture those old times become natural subjects of choice for people in the tattoo world.

Tattoos often have something of a retro feel to them, with designs that hark back to sailors in smoky rooms in far-off lands.

We love to reminisce about times we weren’t a part of. It’s less complicated and in a lot of ways more fun.

Peaky Blinders creates one of those vintage, old-world fantasies for people.

Set in 1919’s England after the first World War- you’d be hard pressed to find many people who remember the time very well.

What we’re left with are photos, artifacts, and stories that Peaky Blinders show uses as inspiration when weaving its own version of that world.

Peaky Blinders Fandom

Though Peaky Blinders has only been on since 2013, it’s become an instant classic.

It scratches that crime thriller drama itch that’s been previously satisfied by shows like Boardwalk Empire or even Breaking Bad.

Peaky Blinders isn’t so heavily promoted, but it’s found its audience.

There’s something special about the Peaky Blinders crowd because they likely either found the show on their own or had it recommended by a friend.

There’s a comradely among fans that makes the show feel that much more in its own world.

One 54 year old fan, David Hatfield, has spent over £4000 on a back piece dedicated to the show.

Hatfield works for Birmingham’s City Council, the same city where the show is set.

Actors from the show have seen the piece and talked about how much they love it.

Even his wife is supportive of the piece, being a huge fan herself.

What is the Peaky Blinders fandom all about though?

Why this show, and how did it get so popular that Peaky Blinders tattoos are popping up all over?

It’s Based on a True Story

Historical fiction is a fun genre because you can take everything good and exciting, raise the stakes, and leave the rest.

But it’s fun to imagine that you’re taking an actual (forgive the pun) peek into another time, isn’t it?

The Peaky Blinders were a real gang who roamed the streets of Birmingham around the time of the first World War.

They gained power through gambling, bookmaking, theft and violence.

Where Did the Name Come From?

Peaky Blinders doesn’t sound very menacing, but that’s maybe what’s so brilliant about it!

There are several theories about where the name came from, but none have been proven.

Some say that, because the gang wore flat caps, they were referring to the flat part of their hat. In this theory it is said that the gang members would hide razor blades in their caps to hurt or even blind their opponent.

Another theory is that, when sneaking up on someone, members of the gang would pull the person’s cap over their head to blind and disorient them.

One of the most logical theories is, of course, the simplest. A “Blinder” is Birmingham slang for someone who dresses well, and the “Peaky” part would refer once again to the peak on their flat caps. Because the Peaky Blinders preferred to look dapper, this would be a natural fit.

Dress Code

One of the reasons Peaky Blinders produces so much fan art and fan tattoos is the aesthetic. We all seem to be romantic for a time when people dressed sharply and looked put together for every occasion.

The minds behind Peaky Blinders’s wardrobe department have taken full advantage of the styles at the time- showing off their good-looking cast in the best 1919 had to offer.

The reasons for this aren’t purely the Hollywood effect on history, though. The Peaky Blinders had a dress code in real life.

To set themselves apart from other gangs, members of the Peaky Blinders wore well-fitted clothing in something of a uniform.

This uniform likely included a signature flat cap, a fitted suit, and trousers, and a pair of steel-toed boots. The last item was more for violent necessity than fashion.

There’s something so menacing about a well-dressed villain, isn’t there? It implies a kind of meticulousness and attention to detail, and says this is no common thug you’re dealing with.

Common Themes in Peaky Blinders Tattoos

Some opt for a portrait style, but there are some really neat American traditional and Neo-traditional Peaky Blinders tattoo designs out there as well.

Some common subjects include:

Thomas Shelby

Many of the Peaky Blinders tattoos are of Thomas Shelby, as portrayed by Cillian Murphy.

He plays the character so well, it’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role.

Murphy has a very striking face and interesting features, making him a great subject for artists.

Quotes from the Show

Of course, if you aren’t into tattoos of people’s faces, you could always opt for a simple favorite quote.

Not everyone will recognize it, but those who do will be delighted to see it! Some choices from Peaky Blinders are “already broken,” and “by order of the Peaky Blinders.”