Both practical and decorative, vintage hair clips and accessories have been used for thousands of years by various civilizations and cultures worldwide. While hair accessories may have started as a simple hair flower or ribbon, hair trends have since evolved to include brooches, hairpins, headbands, and more. From barrettes and headbands to hair rings and combs, the expansive nature of hair accessories seems near endless; yet each year brings new hair trends and recycles previous ones! And while generally fragile objects, some antique hair comb and clip accessories have survived centuries and decades, providing us with a wonderful niche realm of antiques to explore and collect. Looking for a new vintage hair clip or hairpin to adorn a bun hairstyle? This piece of jewelry can offer a touch of vintage style to any ensemble. This article will explore some of the broad history that encompasses hair accessories and some of the favorite antique style designs that are in the market today.
Hair Ties and Hair Rings
Hair rings - circular devices used to confine hair in one place - have early roots as far back as ancient Egypt. Often made of alabaster, jade, or pottery, these rings have been found in tombs and were used to secure the hair in wigs for the wealthiest and highest in social class. Hair rings have been found from the late Bronze Age in modern-day France, Belgium, and Great Britain, too. Often made of gold or organic objects plated in gold, these accessories are an early cousin to the modern-day "hair elastic." They were used mainly to restrain hair back but were also a sign of fashion and nobility. Today, we know hair rings as elastic circles, "rubber bands" or "scrunchies" used to secure hair, but previously a heavy solid piece would have been used in the elastic's place.
A beautiful piece of Japanese artistry, this Kushi, or hair comb, is both an elegant hair ornament and an exquisite work of art. Crafted from luxurious tortoiseshell, the Kushi features a delicate golden enamel scallop pattern interspersed with charming a grasshopper's motif. Japanese Kushi such as this one have been used since the prehistoric Jomon period, and the ornaments became an important part of women’s fashion beginning in the 17th century.
Hair Combs
Decorative hair combs have a rich, long history as well. The earliest combs date to over 5,000 years ago; these were made of carved wood and were primarily used for detangling and keeping hair tidy. As time progressed, bones, horns and tortoiseshell were carved to create beautiful and useful combs for securing hair, serving as the perfect hair accessory for daily use. Some of these date as far back as ancient Rome! As time progressed, however, these simple combs became more decorated and exceptionally detailed - often with decoration correlating with one's social status and wealth. Some combs would be adorned with pearl detailing, sparkling gems, and intricate color patterns.
In Japan during the 17th century, women often used combs made of lacquer, wood or tortoiseshell that were decorated with gold embellishments and patterns. These combs are called Kushi, and they signify a woman’s wealth, class and religion. These combs are still used today but are worn only with the kimono during traditional Japanese ceremonies.
Hair combs were not always used just by themselves. In Colonial America and Western Europe during the mid to late 18th century, combs could be used to help secure larger, more ornate accessories to the head. At the time, tall hair was all the rage and combs aided the addition of hair extensions and beautiful decorations.
Decorative combs found favor as mass production came to fruition in the 20th century. Combs for updo hairstyles with gemstones, pearl gems, and precious metals were popularized in the 1930s and 1940s. Movie stars and royalty alike sported combs with diamonds and jewels in their hair. Later on in the 20th century, the use of animal parts like ivory and tortoiseshell were outlawed and plastic combs in faux tortoiseshell and solid colors made in factories were en vogue.
Barrettes
Barrettes are a more modern invention in the world of hair accessories. These bar-shaped pieces often use a beaded head and guard cap to secure the hair between the two sections of the device. They can be made of metal or plastic, but the lasting, highest quality ones mostly use precious metals and gemstones. The front, of course, is usually highly decorated and reflects the style of the time. Barrettes have adapted throughout history to accommodate popular designs, too. Edwardian, Victorian, Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Retro designs are found in many estate barrettes.
Hairpins
A cousin to barrettes, hairpins have been popular accessory throughout history as well. Sometimes called forks or hair spikes, these tools take long hair and hold them into place once twisted into an updo or topknot. Ancient Romans, Native Americans and Japanese women have utilized these pins; often, they are decorated or carved to create a unique and stylish look.
Other Hair Accessories
There is much room for creativity when using decorations in hair. Throughout history, feathers, shells, flowers and other plants have been widely used in crafting important and significant hair trends. Native American tribes use organic materials and fabric strips to decorate hair; Chinese women during the Ming Dynasty laced their hair with silver and gold strings to hang pearls and emeralds from, too.
Collecting antique hair accessories along with antique jewelry is an exciting hobby! At M.S. Rau, we are dedicated to finding the most exceptional treasures from all over the world. Stay up to date with us by joining our mailing list. We are always keeping an eye out for the next great hair accessory on the market!