3 Mauve Purple Side Combs

Ref: RT-1008-008

This trio of handsome side combs dates from the late 1970s or early 1980s. They are examples of the more restrained designs found in retro hair accessories.

The pale mauve pair with the modernist styling is signed by Goody. The brand has existed since 1907 and is still one of the most popular makers of hair accessories in the USA.

The third accessory is made in deep lilac and has an attractive moulded heading design. These pretty combs would be ideal for the professional woman or to dress up and everyday outfit.

Size: Pair: 2 x 3 ins (approx 5 x 7.5 cms)
      Single: 2 x 3 ins (approx 5 x 7.5 cms)

£10.00

Glitzy Gold Mesh Bow Barrette, (circa 1980s)

Ref: RT-0109-002

This very handsome and large hair barrette appears to be in unused condition and is back stamped Made in France. It features a bow design in bright gold tone mesh and has a black velvet cabochon set in the centre.

The ornament closes with a gold tone spring clip and is quite heavy, so is more suitable for thick or curly hair rather than fine or thin hair. Wear it for a glamorous evening occasion with an updo and be the belle of the ball for a fashionable retro look.

Size: 4 ¼ x 2 ins (approx 10 x 5 cms)

£12.00

Blue Side Comb and Cabochon Barrette Duo

Ref: RT-1008-002

Here we have a pretty hair comb and barrette duo which probably dates from the late 1970s or early 1980s. The 1970s saw a taste for articles of personal adornment decorated with natural materials, or those with a naturalistic appearance.

For example the classic rolled top of the comb has a surface sheen reminiscent of mother of pearl. Similarly the pretty antiqued silver tone barrette has three oval “faux turquoise matrix” cabochons. The barrette has a closing with two metal bars which engage a catch. Neither item is marked.

Size: Comb: 3 x 1¾ ins (approx 7.5 x 4.5 cms)
       Barrette: 2 x 1 ins (approx 5 x 2.5 cms)

£10.00

3 Green Heart Motif Side Combs

Ref: RT-1008-003

This trio of larger and chunkier hair combs is typical of the hair accessories which emerged during the 1980s.

Plastic jewellery again became fashionable in the 80s. All the colours of the rainbow were employed, together with big and bold designs, to create a dazzling effect. “Big” hairstyles such as those shown in the final picture encouraged the use of these big and chunky accessories.

Here we have a matched pair and one single all of which feature a heart motif. They appear to have been hand assembled by an amateur artist rather than commercially manufactured.

Size: Pair: 2½ x 3¼ ins (approx 6 x 8.5 cms)
       Single: 2 x 3 ins (approx 5 x 7.5 cms)

£10.00

3 Mauve Purple Fancy Side Combs

Ref: RT-1008-004

Here we have a trio of mauve and purple side combs dating from the 1970s and 1980s. The 1970s saw a taste for articles of personal adornment decorated with natural materials, or those with a naturalistic appearance.

The pearly mottled sheen of the dark purple comb is typical of these effects. The pretty matched pair in pale lilac has a curved heading which is striped in silver.

They are probably from the early 1980s and appear to be unworn. None of the combs are marked.

Size: Pair: 2½ x 3 ins (approx 6 x 7.5 cms)
       Single: 2 x 3 ins (approx 5 x 7.5 cms)

£10.00

Large Goldtone Metal Heart Shape Barrette

Ref: RT-1108-003

A large and elaborate heart shaped barrette in bright gold tone metal. This beautiful ornament is made in elaborate neo-Baroque style metal filigree.  It has an attractive and intricate pattern which is typical of the style with engraved surface decoration.

This large barrette probably dates from the 1980s. Glitzy Dynasty style hair accessories in the 1980s were distinguished by their large size and lavish appearance.

The last illustration shows examples of the Big Hair which encouraged the use of large and elaborate ornaments like this.

Size: 3 x 2 ins (approx 7.5 x 5 cms)

£10.00