In Conversation with Max Beesley
Max Beesley x Laird Hatters: An Icon on Style, Craftsmanship & His Favourite Hats
From starring roles in acclaimed series like The Gentlemen, Hijack, and The Outsider to his roots as a trained jazz musician, English actor Max Beesley embodies a unique blend of rugged sophistication and effortless cool. Inspired by icons like Steve McQueen and the enduring appeal of Old Hollywood style, Max recently shared his perspective on fashion, craftsmanship, and his handpicked favourites from the Laird Hatters collection.
We sat down with Max during a Laird photoshoot near Jermyn Street – home to our upcoming Laird Utility store – to dive deeper into what defines his style and why quality British headwear remains a cornerstone of a discerning wardrobe.
The Shelby Bakerboy: From Birmingham Streets to Modern Icon
A firm favourite of Max Beesley, the Shelby Bakerboy Cap channels the sharp, gritty elegance synonymous with the iconic TV series Peaky Blinders. It’s more than just a cap; it’s a statement piece steeped in British heritage.
“Inspired by Tommy Shelby’s signature style, it’s handcrafted in Hertfordshire from premium wool cloth with a sleek eight-panel design,” notes Max. This isn't just any baker boy cap; it boasts the sleekest profile in our collection, offering a modern take on 1920s British fashion. It blends timeless craftsmanship with everyday comfort, pairing effortlessly with anything from a waxed jacket to tailored outerwear for that undeniable cool.
Sharp Notes & Sharp Style: The Sinatra Trilby
For Max Beesley, music and style go hand in hand. It's no surprise he’s drawn to the timeless elegance of the Sinatra Trilby, particularly in the rich Oxblood hue.
“With its suede-finished cashmere, sleek snap-brim, and refined silhouette, this trilby hat is a nod to the effortless cool of Frank Sinatra,” Max observes. Available in four colours, it's meticulously handcrafted, offering a touch of luxury perfect for elevating any look, from stage to street.
A Retro Revival: The Cotton Twill Duckbill Cap
Max also highlighted the Cotton Twill Duckbill Cap for its nod to British tradition. This cap blends retro charm with sharp, modern lines for a truly distinctive look.
"Handcrafted in Hertfordshire, its sleek silhouette nods to the baseball cap but reimagined through a distinctly British lens," Max notes. Made from premium cotton twill, it’s the perfect pick for lovers of nostalgic style – updated for today and effortlessly versatile.
Beyond the Hat: The Laird Utility Connection
Max's appreciation for enduring style and quality extends beyond headwear. His practical yet polished look often pairs perfectly with pieces like the Laird Utility Safari Jacket. Crafted using a refined blend of lightweight Loden, wool, alpaca, and cashmere, this jacket embodies the shared commitment to quality materials and functional design between Laird Hatters and Laird Utility.
Loden cloth, traditionally used in the Highlands, is naturally wind-resistant and water-repellent yet surprisingly lightweight, offering exceptional warmth without bulk – ideal for the unpredictable British weather and complementing the craftsmanship of a Laird hat.
Watch the Interview: Max Beesley In Conversation
Discover more about Max Beesley's inspirations, from on-screen moments to off-duty style, in our exclusive video interview:
Explore the Max Beesley Edit
Inspired by Max's picks? Explore the hats featured in his selection and discover timeless British style, handcrafted for today.