The Glamour of the 1920s
The Roaring Twenties were defined by luxury, glamour, and rebellion, with short, sharp bobs becoming the signature haircut. To complement these daring new styles, women adorned their hair with opulent accessories. Think bejewelled Art Deco clips with geometric
shapes, sleek lines, and pearl embellishments. Decorative combs and barrettes, often sparkling with rhinestones, were slipped into place to accentuate finger waves or hold a deep side part. For an authentic 1920s feel, position a sparkling clip or a delicate feathered piece to one side, just above the ear. This not only secures the hair but also draws attention to the sculpted waves that defined the era.
The Practical Elegance of the 1940s
Hairstyles in the 1940s balanced practicality with elegance. With many women entering the workforce, hair needed to be kept neatly out of the way. This led to the rise of iconic updos like Victory rolls. Hair combs became essential tools for securing these elaborate styles. Women would often use a pair of decorative side combs, sometimes adorned with flowers or subtle rhinestones, to pull back the sides of their hair, creating a polished and controlled silhouette. These combs were not just functional; they added a touch of femininity to otherwise utilitarian hairstyles, proving that style could thrive even in times of austerity. To channel this look, use a set of simple combs to secure the hair just behind the ears, allowing for volume at the crown.
The Playful Spirit of the 1960s
The 1960s was a decade of youth, rebellion, and playful fashion. Hair became a statement, from voluminous beehives to sleek, mod bobs. Hair accessories reflected this bold new energy. Plastic clips and barrettes in bright colours and geometric shapes became hugely popular. Think oversized bows, daisy-adorned clips, and wide plastic headbands. To add a '60s touch to your hair, try securing a half-up ponytail with a colourful barrette or placing a pair of matching clips on either side of a sharp centre part. These accessories were meant to be seen and celebrated, adding a pop of fun and personality to any look.
Choosing the Right Vintage Clip
When selecting a vintage or vintage-inspired clip, consider both its style and its construction. Look at the back of the clip; the mechanism can tell you a lot about its quality and how it will hold in your hair. Barrettes, which typically use a clasp mechanism, are different from clips that use a spring. For fine hair, smaller, lighter clips or barrettes are ideal as they won't slip or weigh down your strands. For thick or curly hair, look for larger, stronger clips with a good grip, such as a sturdy French barrette or a decorative comb with wide teeth. Don't be afraid to choose a piece that reflects your personal style—whether it's a minimalist metal slide or an ornate, sparkling antique.
Styling and Securing Your Clip
How you place a clip can make all the difference. To secure a side-sweep, position a decorative comb or barrette just above the ear. For a classic half-up style, gather the top section of your hair, give it a slight twist to create a bit of tension, and secure it with a clip at the back of your head. When using side combs, a pro tip is to insert the comb with the teeth pointing slightly forward, then flip it back and push it in to lock the hair securely. To give a simple updo or chignon a vintage feel, tuck a decorative comb into the side of the bun. Remember that these pieces are meant to be a focal point, so don't hide them. Let them shine as the finishing touch to your hairstyle.
