Hair Accessories

Decorative hair combs were an essential accessory when long hair was worn up.

About Hair Accessories

Victorian and Edwardian combs were made from tortoise-shell, horn, celluloid and other early plastics, often set with paste stones or carved into elaborate openwork. As shorter hairstyles arrived in the 1920s, barrettes, bandeaux and smaller jeweled clips took their place, and later decades revived the statement comb for evening and bridal wear. Today vintage hair accessories are worn at weddings and special occasions, or displayed as small works of decorative art. Each listing describes the material, era and size, so you can choose a piece that suits your hair and the occasion.

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Choosing a vintage hair accessory

  • Era: tall back combs and carved side combs belong to the Victorian and Edwardian years; jeweled barrettes and bandeaux suit 1920s styles; rhinestone clips and combs sparkle from the 1950s onward.
  • Material: celluloid and early plastics are light and warm to the touch; jet and French jet give deep Victorian black; rhinestone and diamanté pieces catch evening light.
  • Size and fit: check the measurements in each listing. Side combs and slides hold fine or short hair; larger back combs need a chignon or updo.
  • Care: keep combs away from heat and moisture and store them flat. See our care guide.

Looking for a bridal comb or a particular era? Contact us: the collection holds many more hair ornaments than we can show online.