The Quiet Holy Grail: Ziggy Colors 2 Hair Clips and Why Collectors Hunt Them
The first time I held a Ziggy Colors 2 hair clip, I noticed the weight of the acrylic — denser than the mass-produced clips that came later in the 1980s, with a subtle satin sheen that shifts depending on the light. The colour was an offbeat coral, neither pastel nor neon, and the scalloped edge was perfectly smooth, without a single burr. That moment sent me down a rabbit hole of understanding why these particular accessories have become a quiet holy grail for British vintage collectors.
What Are Ziggy Colors 2 Hair Accessories?
Ziggy Colors 2 is the second series of hair clips, combs, and barrettes made in the early 1970s by a small manufacturer in London's Hatton Garden district — long since disbanded. The line was created to meet the booming demand for bold, affordable accessories after the 1960s colour revolution. While the first series (Ziggy Colors 1) focused on translucent pastels, Colors 2 introduced opaque, highly saturated hues: aubergine, moss green, burnt sienna, and a peculiarly British "dusty pink." Each piece was cast in a single mold and then hand-polished, giving them a consistency of shape that mass-produced injection-molded later items lack.
The "2" also signified an improved latching mechanism. The spring-loaded bobby pin inside each barrette was now nickel-plated to prevent rust, and the comb teeth were slightly thicker to grip finer hair without snapping. Collectors often seek out the second series because of these tolerance improvements, which make the pieces more usable today than their predecessors.
The Materials and Craftsmanship Behind Ziggy Colors 2
The primary material is a cast acrylic resin, reinforced with a small percentage of cellulose acetate for flexibility. This composite gives the clips a satisfying heft — about 12 grams per average barrette — and a warm, non-reflective finish. The colour is mixed into the resin before casting, so even if the surface scratches, the hue remains consistent. This was a deliberate choice by the manufacturer to avoid the paint-chipping problems common on contemporary French barrettes.
Each clip was hand-assembled. After casting, the edges were filed and then flame-polished, creating a gloss distinctly different from the high-shine of polyester. The springs were inserted manually, and each piece was tested by snapping it open and closed ten times before packing. That level of quality control is one reason so many Ziggy Colors 2 pieces survive today in working condition.
How to Identify Authentic Ziggy Colors 2 Pieces
With renewed interest in 1970s accessories, some unethical sellers have tried to pass off later generic clips as Ziggy Colors. Here is a comparison table to help you distinguish:
| Feature | Ziggy Colors 2 | Later 1980s Imitation |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10–14 grams for a 6 cm barrette | 6–8 grams |
| Surface finish | Satin, slight matte sheen | Glossy, plasticky reflection |
| Colour depth | Even, with very subtle variegation where mixed | Flat, single-tone |
| Mold number | Raised "ZC2" on the underside of the hinge | No marking, or "MADE IN HONG KONG" |
| Spring tension | Firm, holds securely without slipping | Weak, often fails to close fully |
Authentic pieces also often have a very faint sanded line along the inner edge from the hand-finishing process — a characteristic you can feel with your fingertip.
Styling Ziggy Colors 2 in a Modern Wardrobe
Despite their 1970s origins, these clips work surprisingly well with contemporary outfits. The colour palette — earthy, with occasional pops of saffron — makes them versatile for both mid-century revival looks and modern minimalist styling. Pair a mustard Ziggy barrette with a crisp white shirt and raw denim for a subtle retro nod. For evenings, a single deep aubergine clip worn as a side-sweep anchor complements a silk slip dress or a tailored blazer.
The comb version — with six wide teeth and a curved back — is particularly good for holding a low chignon or a French twist. Because the teeth are blunted (a safety feature from the original design), they won't damage fine or delicate hair. For collectors interested in building a full set, the series includes three primary comb sizes, two barrette lengths, and one hair fork — a rare find that many seek after reading guides such as The Crescent Moon Hair Clip: A British Collector’s Guide, which gives a framework for evaluating shape and design across different eras.
Caring for Your Ziggy Colors 2 Collectibles
Because the acrylic resin is durable but not indestructible, proper care extends the life of these pieces. Avoid excessive heat — do not leave them in direct sunlight for long periods, as the colour may fade slightly. Clean with a soft, damp cloth and a drop of mild soap; never use alcohol or acetone, which can cloud the surface. Store each clip separately — preferably in a soft pouch or a compartmented box — to prevent scratching from metal contact.
The springs can lose tension over decades. If a Ziggy Colors 2 barrette no longer snaps shut firmly, a watchmaker or jewellery repair shop can generally replace the spring without damaging the acrylic. Replacing the original nickel-plated spring with a stainless-steel one is a sensible upgrade that preserves the piece's function for another fifty years.
Next time you come across a turquoise Ziggy clip at a flea market, check the underside for the telltale matte finish and the raised "ZC2" — that is the mark of the second series, and the start of a rewarding collection.