The Roaring Twenties: Art Deco and Jewelled Barrettes
The 1920s were defined by rebellion and glamour, and the era's hairstyles were no exception. With the rise of the short bob and finger waves, hair accessories became essential for adding a touch of sparkle. Art Deco was the height of fashion, and this
translated into hair clips with bold geometric patterns, crystals, and sleek lines. Jewelled barrettes and decorative combs were used to pin back waves or adorn a sharp bob. To get the look, create soft finger waves in your hair. Then, place a rhinestone or pearl-embellished barrette just above your ear to hold a section of hair in place. Another iconic style was the bandeau, a headband worn low across the forehead, often featuring beads, feathers, and metallic details. For a simpler take, a single, ornate clip can evoke the same flapper-era sophistication.
The 1940s: Victory Rolls and Functional Elegance
The 1940s were marked by a blend of practicality and glamour. With many women working in factories during World War II, hairstyles needed to be kept out of the face, leading to the creation of the iconic Victory Roll. This style involves creating large, voluminous rolls of hair on top of or framing the face. While they look intricate, clips are key to securing them. To create a victory roll, take a section of hair, wrap the ends around your fingers to create a loop, and then roll it down towards your scalp before pinning it securely. Decorative side combs or simple but sturdy clips were used to hold these rolls firmly in place. For a softer, 'peek-a-boo' wave inspired by actress Veronica Lake, a single clip can be used to sweep a deep side part of wavy hair across the forehead.
The 1950s: Playful Ponytails and Simple Accents
The 1950s embraced a more youthful and playful aesthetic. The classic high ponytail became a defining look for the decade, often paired with short, neat bangs. While simple, this style was frequently accessorised to add personality. A small chiffon scarf tied around the base of the ponytail was a popular choice for a casual, feminine touch. For a more polished finish, decorative clips and barrettes were used. These often featured floral designs, pearls, or simple plastic shapes. To achieve this style, gather your hair into a high ponytail. You can then clip a small, decorative barrette at the base to hide the elastic or use a pair of matching clips on either side of your parting if you wear your hair down. The 'poodle cut', a short and very curly style made famous by Lucille Ball, also used small clips to tame curls and add a bit of flair.
The 1960s: Bouffants, Beehives, and Bold Headbands
Volume was the name of the game in the 1960s. Hairstyles like the bouffant and the beehive, popularised by figures like Brigitte Bardot and Jackie Kennedy, were all about achieving maximum height. These dramatic updos required significant backcombing and hairspray, but clips played a crucial role in shaping and securing the style. A large, curved barrette could be used to hold the base of a bouffant, while smaller grips were hidden within the structure. Another signature look of the era was the wide, soft headband, often worn with voluminous hair and flipped-out ends. To recreate a simpler '60s feel, try backcombing the crown of your hair for a mini-bouffant and securing it with a simple clip, letting the rest of your hair fall straight. It’s a subtle nod to the era's iconic volume.
Finding and Caring for Vintage Clips
Whether you're using true vintage pieces or retro-inspired reproductions, it's important to handle them with care. When examining a vintage clip, check the fastening mechanism first. Ensure the hinge moves smoothly and that the bar meets its catch cleanly without snagging. The decoration, whether it's glass stones, pearls, or plastic, should be secure. When styling, always hold the metal base of the clip rather than the decorative front to avoid putting pressure on delicate parts. To remove, open the mechanism fully instead of pulling the clip straight out of your hair, which can cause tugging and damage. When not in use, store your clips separately to prevent scratching or tangling. With a little care, these beautiful accessories can be a go-to for adding a touch of history to any modern look.
