Two Faux Tortoiseshell Side Combs

Ref: RT-0208-012

These two large and unusual faux tortoiseshell hair combs were made in the late 1970s or early 1980s when larger hair ornaments gained popularity with the BIG hairstyles. Neither is marked but they were probably manufactured in the USA. The sidesweep curly whirly design is one beloved by American from the mid 20th century onwards.

After languishing during the 1970s plastic jewellery again became popular in the 1980s and was made in a range of colours and styles. The organic shape echoes the back-to-nature theme of much 1970s jewellery. Hair accessories in the 1980s were distinguished by their large size and lavish appearance.

For more information on hair accessories of this period see my article on Retro Hair Accessories 1970-1980 in the ARTICLES section.

Size:3 ½ x 4 ins (approx 9 x 10 cms)

£20.00

Pair of Iridescent Acrylic Side Combs

Ref: RT-0608-001

These two grey acrylic side combs were probably made in the late 1970s. They have an interesting iridescent effect with is reminiscent of the jewellery of Lea Stein. Stein made jewellery and objects using a unique process of cellulose acetate in the 1980s which sandwiched many layers together to create patterns of shifting light.

The design and the single line of rhinestone trim are typical of the minimalist look which is a derivative of modernism. In modernism the emphasis is upon form and function rather than surface decoration.

For more information on hair accessories of this period see my article on Retro Hair Accessories 1970-1980 in the ARTICLES section.

Size: 2¼ x 2½ ins (approx 5.50 x 6.50 cms)

£10.00

2 Heart Shaped Acrylic Barrettes

Ref: RT-0708-001

These extremely large acrylic barrettes were almost certainly made in the mid to late 1980s. The design is that of two filigree hearts superimposed, one ornament being black and the other faux tortoise effect.

They are fitted with spring clips and were probably manufactured in the Far East for the European market. After languishing during the 1970s plastic jewellery again became popular in the 1980s and was made in a range of colours and styles.

Hair accessories in the 1980s were distinguished by their large size and lavish appearance.

Size: 4 x 2 ins (approx 10 x 5 cms)

£10.00

2 “Batman” Style Black Hair Combs

Ref: RT-0808-001

These highly unusual hair combs date from the 1980s and were possibly inspired by either the Batman films or the Goth phenomenon. They give the effect of bat wings raised on high.

The combs were in fact made in the Far East for the European market and are back stamped TAIWAN. After languishing during the 1970s plastic jewellery again became popular in the 1980s and was made in a range of colours and styles.

Hair accessories in the 1980s were distinguished by their large size and lavish appearance.

Size: 3 ½ x 3 ¼ ins (approx 9 x 8 cms)

£15.00

Pair of Giraffe Pattern Side Combs

Ref: RT-0808-003

This handsome and unusual pair of side combs is typical of 1980s design. After languishing during the 1970s plastic jewellery again became popular in the 1980s and was made in a range of colours and styles.

One of the typical patterns found was a taste for animal print hair accessories and jewellery and these giraffe pattern combs are typical.

Hair accessories in the 1980s were distinguished by their large size and lavish appearance. These were made in Taiwan for the European market.

Size: 3 x 2 ¼ ins (approx 8 x 6 cms)

£10.00

2 Fancy Blue and Pink Side Combs

Ref: RT-1108-001

This glitzy due or retro side combs is made in a similar style but with different colouring. One comb has purple enamel leaves with a large blue faux pearl set in the centre. The other has the same decorative elements but in pink.  

The bright and glitzy appearance of these pretty hair accessories is a typical product of the 1980s decade. During this time American TV soap operas like Dynasty and Dallas led to a taste for showy jewellery and hair accessories.

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

£10.00

Glitzy Faux Pearls and Crystal Cluster Side Comb

Ref: RT-1008-010

This glitzy retro side comb comprises a generous cluster of massed faux pearls and faceted crystal beads. It is a typical product of the 1980s decade when American TV soap operas like Dynasty and Dallas led to a taste for showy rhinestone jewellery and hair accessories. 

The 1980s are also infamous for the “big hair” hairstyles which positively encouraged the wearing of such accessories. With the 1980s currently in vogue once more this would be an excellent choice for a prom or party.

Size: 2 x 3½ ins (5 x 9 cms)

£10.00