A Guide to Vintage Hair Combs and Accessories

For centuries, decorative combs were as important as any brooch. When long hair was worn up, a carved or jeweled comb was the finishing touch, and many of these small works of art survive today.

Victorian and Edwardian combs

Tall back combs, side combs and hair pins were made from tortoise-shell, horn, bone, celluloid and other early plastics. Look for carved or pierced openwork, paste stones and revival styles, including Egyptian motifs.

The 1920s and after

When bobbed hair arrived, large combs gave way to barrettes, slides, bandeaux and smaller jeweled clips. Later decades revived the statement comb for evening and bridal wear, and rhinestone combs and clips sparkle through the 1950s and 1960s.

How to wear them today

• A single side comb lifts a loose chignon for a wedding or evening.
• A pair of slides or clips works with shorter hair.
• Larger back combs need an updo to hold them securely.

Care

Keep combs away from heat, moisture and hairspray, and store them flat. Celluloid in particular should be kept out of direct sun. See our care guide.

Shop hair accessories

Browse vintage hair accessories, including the Victorian openwork comb, the Victorian Egyptian-style comb, the tortoise-shell comb with rhinestones and a Robert Sorrell purple comb.