The Store p174 Happy Diamante Hair Barrette: A Vintage British Treasure

There's a quiet charm to the Store p174 Happy Diamante Hair Barrette that often gets overlooked in favour of flashier pieces like the p157 or p167. But this particular barrette—with its cheerful name and precisely set crystals—tells a fascinating story about British costume jewellery in the late 20th century. Called 'Happy' for its playful, uplifting sparkle, the p174 belongs to a numbered series of hair accessories made by a now-defunct British wholesaler that supplied independent boutiques and department stores across the UK. Each piece in the series carried a unique code, and the p174 stands out for its symmetrical, diamond-shaped crystal cluster and the warm, honey-toned base metal that catches the light in a particularly flattering way.

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Decoding the Design: What Makes the p174 Special?

Unlike many diamante barrettes that use a single row of stones, the p174 features a central cluster of five round, faceted crystals arranged in a cross-like pattern, with smaller accent stones on either side. The setting is claw-pronged, a technique that allows maximum light refraction and gives each stone a brilliant, almost liquid appearance. The barrette itself is approximately 5 cm long and 1.5 cm wide—a size that works beautifully on medium to thick hair without overpowering a delicate updo. The clasp is a spring-loaded snap mechanism, typical of mid-century to 1980s British hair accessories, and it holds securely even in fine hair when placed correctly.

The metal base is likely a brass alloy with a gold-toned plating that has aged to a gentle, buttery patina. On well-preserved examples, the plating remains bright, while on pieces that have been worn frequently, you may see a subtle mellowing that adds character. The stones are glass-backed foil rhinestones—often called 'diamante' in British costume jewellery—and they have a slightly warm tone (sometimes described as 'champagne') rather than icy white. This warmth is part of the p174's charm; it complements both cool and warm hair colours, from ash blonde to chestnut brown.

Materials and Craftsmanship

The p174 exemplifies the high standards of British costume jewellery manufacturing in the 1970s and 1980s. The prongs holding each stone are individually bent over the foil backing by hand, a labour-intensive process that ensures the stone stays secure for decades. The foil itself is silver-coloured, which enhances the sparkle of the glass. The backing plate is stamped with the 'Store p174' code—a practice that helps collectors identify genuine pieces today. If you ever come across a barrette that looks similar but lacks the code, it is likely a later reproduction or a different maker. The original clasp is marked with a small 'Made in England' stamp, though this can be faint after years of wear.

One of the most practical aspects of the p174 is its weight. It is light enough to be worn all day without pulling on the hair, yet substantial enough to feel quality in the hand. This balance is typical of vintage British hair accessories, which prioritise comfort as much as appearance.

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Styling the p174 with a Modern Wardrobe

The Happy Diamante Barrette is surprisingly versatile. Its warm sparkle and modest size make it an excellent accent for both casual and formal looks. For day wear, try clipping it into a low side ponytail or using it to secure a soft French twist. The crystals catch the light subtly as you move, adding a touch of elegance without shouting for attention. For evening, the barrette can be worn as a centrepiece in a sleek bun or as a finishing touch on a half-up style. Because the stones are not overly large, it pairs well with other vintage accessories—for instance, a pair of small pearl studs or a simple chain necklace.

If you are building a capsule wardrobe with vintage accents, the p174 is a reliable choice. It works with silk blouses, chunky knits, and even denim jackets. The key is to let the barrette be the focal point; avoid competing with other heavily embellished hair accessories. For a springtime look, consider coordinating with pastel tones. Our guide to Spring Color Palettes for Vintage Hair Clips: A British Guide offers specific colour pairings that make the p174's champagne stones sing—think soft lavender, mint green, or pale coral.

How to Spot a Genuine p174

With the growing interest in vintage British hair accessories, imitations have appeared. A genuine Store p174 will have all of these features:

• The code 'p174' stamped clearly on the metal back, usually near the clasp hinge.
• Five main faceted stones in a cross pattern, each held by four tiny prongs.
• A spring clasp that clicks firmly into place.
• No visible maker's mark beyond the code and possibly 'Made in England'.
• A warm gold-tone base, not a bright yellow or silvery finish.

If the stones are glued rather than prong-set, or if the code is missing, it is not an original p174. The weight is also a giveaway—genuine pieces feel solid, whereas cheap reproductions often feel hollow or plasticky.

Care and Preservation

To keep your p174 in good condition, follow these simple steps:

• Clean gently: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and oils after each wear. For deeper cleaning, a barely damp cotton bud can be used around the stones, but avoid getting moisture under the prongs.
• Store separately: Keep the barrette in a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box. Diamante stones can scratch each other, and the metal can tarnish if exposed to air for long periods.
• Avoid hairspray and perfume: Spray these products before putting the barrette in your hair. The alcohol and chemicals can dull the foil backing over time.
• Check the clasp: If the spring becomes loose, a jeweller can often tighten it. Do not attempt to bend the metal yourself, as the prongs may break.

With proper care, a p174 can last for many more decades. The foil-backed stones may eventually develop a slight cloudiness—this is normal ageing and does not affect the barrette's charm. Some collectors even prefer the softened sparkle of a well-loved piece.

Where to Find the p174 Today

These barrettes turn up at vintage fairs, charity shops, and online marketplaces. Because they were produced in moderate quantities, they are not extremely rare, but finding one in excellent condition with a strong clasp and bright stones requires patience. Prices vary: a p174 with minor wear might cost £10–£15, while a pristine example in its original card can fetch £30 or more. The code 'p174' is not widely known outside collector circles, so you may occasionally find one mislabelled as a generic diamante barrette. Knowing what to look for gives you an advantage.

Next time you spot a p174 in a charity shop or at a vintage fair, take a moment to examine the clasp and the crystal setting—it's the details that make this barrette a happy find indeed.