Two matched pairs of 1980s modernistic style hair accessories

CONDITION: good vintage condition with acceptable wear

SIZE: 4 ins w x 1¼ ins h (10 x 3 cm)

APPROXIMATE DATE: 1980s

MATERIALS: plastic, metal

DESCRIPTION:

Here are two matched pairs of hair barrettes dating from the 1980s. The geometric design is typical of the period, which often gave a nod to Art Deco and earlier styles.

The ornaments have been made by assembling a number of different coloured plastic elements upon a rectangular base plate. Circles, triangles and squares can all be seen. The fastening is the modern French spring clip.

These items have a contemporary look that is eminently wearable today.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The costume jewellery industry flourished in the 1980s, and women experienced a new freedom and confidence to wear frankly fake fashion jewellery. In fact, the bigger and glitzier the better! The fashion hallmarks of the decade were big shoulders, big hair and co-ordinating costume jewellery. Hair was teased and ratted out, and this ‘big’ hair cried out to be balanced by glitzy jewellery in bright gilt settings and colours.

After languishing somewhat during the 1970s plastic jewellery again became fashionable in the 80s. This coincided with the vogue for collecting early bakelite and other vintage jewellery. The plastics used for jewellery and hair ornaments in the 1980s were not only smooth but textured as well. Stripes and polka dot patterns were popular, in addition to those imitating animal prints. All the colours of the rainbow were employed to create a dazzling effect.

Plastic hair accessories often included simple geometric shapes such as arrows, circles and triangles mounted upon combs and barrettes in contrasting colours and designs.