The Store p137 Beret Hearts: A Vintage British Hair Accessory

If you have ever held a small, beret-shaped hair clip stamped with the code p137 on its metal spring hinge, you may have wondered about its origin. Unlike the better-known p129 or p127 variants, the p137 beret with hearts appears less frequently in antique fairs and online listings, yet it carries a distinct charm that rewards the patient collector. The code itself is not a brand name but a stock reference used by a British wholesale millinery supplier active from the late 1940s through the 1960s. The number likely corresponds to a specific production batch or design catalogue entry, and the hearts motif suggests a romantic, feminine appeal that was especially popular in the post-war years.

The Beret Shape in Hair Accessories

The beret silhouette in hair clips draws directly from the iconic French cap that became a British fashion staple after the Second World War. Milliners translated the soft, rounded crown of a fabric beret into miniature metal or plastic forms, often with a spring clip mechanism that allowed the accessory to sit securely on a section of hair. The p137 version measures roughly two inches across, with a domed top that mimics the drape of a felt beret. The surface is typically finished in a matte gilt or silver-tone metal, with three or four small red enamel hearts embedded in a cluster near the centre. Some examples show the hearts arranged in a triangular formation; others place them in a loose arc. The enamel is hand-painted or fired, giving each clip slight variations in colour intensity and heart outline.

The beret clip was designed to be worn at the side of the head, pinning a sweep of hair behind the ear, or centred at the crown for a more formal updo. Unlike the heavier barrettes of the 1970s, the p137 is lightweight and comfortable, making it ideal for fine or medium hair textures. Its small footprint also means it can be layered with other clips without overwhelming the hairstyle.

Materials and Construction

Authentic p137 beret hearts clips are constructed from a brass base that is then plated with either gold or silver. The plating on surviving examples often shows wear at the edges and on the highest point of the dome, revealing the warm brass underneath. This is not a flaw but a sign of age and honest use, and many collectors prize such patina as evidence of the clip’s journey through decades of British life. The spring mechanism is a simple tension clip, common in mid-century accessories, and the teeth are usually stainless steel or nickel-plated. The hearts are made of vitreous enamel, which gives them a glossy, durable finish that resists chipping better than painted alternatives.

To identify a genuine p137, examine the reverse of the clip. The code is stamped into the metal of the hinge or on the inside of the spring arm. The stamping is crisp and shallow, not laser-etched. If you see “p137” in a raised font or on a sticker, the piece is likely a modern reproduction. The original clips also have a small round mark from the manufacturer—often a letter “B” or a crown symbol—but this is not always present. The hearts themselves should be flush with the metal surface; if they protrude, the piece may have been repaired with replacement enamel.

Styling the p137 Beret Hearts Today

The p137 clip belongs to a category of accessories that bridge vintage aesthetics and contemporary wardrobes with surprising ease. Its modest size and soft metallic sheen mean it does not compete with bold prints or modern minimalist cuts. Here are a few ways to wear it:

• Low ponytail with a side sweep: Gather your hair into a low ponytail, then sweep a section from the temple to the back and secure with the p137 clip just above the ear. The hearts will catch the light without overpowering the look.
• French twist accent: After creating a classic French twist, place the beret clip at the top of the roll, angled slightly forward. This echoes the 1950s evening hairstyles that inspired the accessory.
• Layered with a headband: The p137 works beautifully alongside a wide satin headband. For a coordinated mid-century ensemble, pair it with a Satin Squared Headband, letting the clip sit just behind the headband’s edge for a polished, layered effect.
• Casual day wear: Use the clip to hold back bangs or a front section of hair while the rest falls loose. The red hearts add a subtle pop of colour to a neutral outfit.

Care and Preservation

Because the p137 is made from plated metal and enamel, it requires gentle handling. Avoid exposing the clip to water, perfume, or hairspray, as these can dull the plating and loosen the enamel. After each wear, wipe the clip with a soft, dry cloth to remove oils and dust. If the metal tarnishes, use a jewellery polishing cloth specifically designed for plated surfaces—never use abrasive cleaners or dips that can strip the finish. Store the clip in a fabric-lined box or a soft pouch, separate from other metal accessories, to prevent scratching. The spring mechanism should be opened and closed slowly; forcing it can bend the teeth or snap the hinge.

Collecting Notes

The p137 beret hearts clip is rarer than its p129 counterpart, which often features a single large heart or a simpler design. Prices at British vintage fairs typically range from £15 to £35 depending on condition and the presence of original packaging. Clips that still bear the original card or a retailer’s label (such as “Selfridges” or “Harrods”) command higher prices. When buying online, ask the seller for a clear photograph of the stamp on the reverse. Be wary of listings that describe the clip as “French” or “1950s” without providing the code—many generic heart-shaped clips are sold as vintage but lack the specific p137 mark.

If you are fortunate enough to find a p137 with the hearts intact and the plating in good condition, you have a piece that represents a specific moment in British millinery history—a time when even a small hair clip was designed with the same care and detail as a couture hat. Wear it, enjoy it, and let it tell its own story in your modern wardrobe.