The 1920s: Art Deco and Decadence
The Roaring Twenties were a time of liberation, and hairstyles were no exception. As women chopped their hair into chic bobs, new accessories emerged to adorn them. Flapper style was all about sparkle and glamour. Rhinestone-studded barrettes, jewelled
hair combs, and delicate clips featuring geometric Art Deco designs were immensely popular. These pieces were often worn to pin back one side of a sharp bob or to add a touch of glitter for an evening out. Headbands, known as bandeaus, were also common, frequently decorated with feathers, beads, and sequins to complete the iconic flapper look.
The 1940s: Wartime Practicality
The 1940s brought a more practical approach to hairstyling, heavily influenced by the realities of World War II. With many women working in factories, keeping hair neatly and safely tucked away was essential. This led to the popularity of accessories like the snood, a crocheted net that held hair at the nape of the neck. Simple barrettes, grips, and bobby pins were everyday essentials used to create structured styles like Victory rolls—a hairstyle that became a symbol of patriotism. While function was key, women still found ways to add a touch of femininity with simple bows or a flower tucked into a roll.
The 1960s: Mod Shapes and Flower Power
The 1960s were a decade of bold expression, and hair accessories reflected the shift. The early part of the decade saw the rise of Mod fashion, which favoured geometric shapes and bright, blocky colours. Large, round, or oval plastic barrettes in vibrant hues were used to accessorise sleek bobs and voluminous bouffants. As the decade progressed into the hippie movement, a more natural, free-spirited aesthetic took over. This was the era of flower power, with floral headbands and simple, decorative clips becoming a symbol of peace and love.
The 1980s: Bigger is Better
The 1980s were a decade of excess, and hair was no exception. It was all about volume, and the accessories had to be big enough to handle it. The undisputed king of '80s hair clips was the banana clip. This long, curved clip clamped down the length of a ponytail, creating a cascade of hair down the back that was both stylish and practical. Alongside the banana clip were oversized bows and, of course, the scrunchie. Often seen in neon colours and bold patterns, these accessories were the perfect complement to the perms and high-volume styles of the era.
The 1990s: Playful Plastics and Chic Minimalism
The 1990s gave us two distinct but equally iconic trends in hair clips. On one hand, there was a wave of playful, youthful accessories. Tiny, colourful butterfly clips were everywhere, used to adorn braids, twists, and updos. On the other hand, the decade also embraced a more minimalist, 'cool-girl' aesthetic. This is where the claw clip had its first major moment. A simple tortoiseshell or black claw clip used to create an effortless-looking twist became a signature look, popularised by television characters and celebrities, defining an era of understated chic.
