A pretty matched pair of Alexandre de Paris signed hair combs in faux tortoiseshell effect

CONDITION: good vintage condition with expected wear for age

SIZE: 3½ ins h x 1½ ins w (9 x 4 cm)

APPROXIMATE DATE: 1980s

MATERIALS: acrylic

DESCRIPTION:

A good matched pair of Alexandre de Paris signed hair combs in faux tortoiseshell effect. These would look great in a classic French twist or chignon hairstyle.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Alexandre de Paris was among the first “hauts coiffeurs” who elevated hairdressing to an art form. He was catapulted to celebrity status when the Duchess of Windsor (formerly Wallis Simpson), asked him to do her hair. He remained her hairdresser for 30 years. She took him under her wing, introducing him to hundreds of new clients and in 1952 he was able to open a salon on Rue du Faubourg St-Honoré in Paris. His reputation spread rapidly and in 1961 he dressed the hair of Jackie Kennedy with a chignon studded with diamonds for the dinner General de Gaulle was giving in honour of her husband. Elizabeth Taylor, Princess Margaret and Princess Grace of Monaco also became clients, along with the Empress of Iran, Audrey Hepburn, Maria Callas, and Shirley MacLaine.

In 1971 Alexandre created a collection of luxury accessories starting with bows, clips and headbands and later including combs, brushes, wedding veils and costume jewellery. Many hours go into the making of these hand made creations. The company presents two collections a year in summer & winter. Each item is produced separately and assembled and finished by hand with great precision.