New Year’s Eve Vintage Hair Accessories: A Timeless British Tradition

The tradition of wearing a special hair ornament on New Year's Eve is far older than many realise. In Edwardian Britain, women would often secure their evening coiffures with jewel-toned combs, believing that the sparkle of paste stones would bring luck for the year ahead. By the 1920s, the fashion had evolved into art deco hair clips and bandeaus adorned with geometric rhinestone patterns, while the 1950s saw a revival of ornate combs for formal celebrations. As we stand on the cusp of 2017, these accessories offer not only a touch of glamour but a tangible connection to the festive rituals of our predecessors.

A Brief History of Festive Hair Ornaments

The Edwardian era (1901–1910) prized elaborate hairstyles that required substantial support. Combs made of tortoiseshell or celluloid, often inset with faux gemstones, were the backbone of any grand evening look. For New Year's Eve balls, women would choose combs with ruby-red or emerald-green stones to symbolise prosperity and health. The 1920s brought a dramatic shift: shorter hair and the iconic ‘flapper’ style demanded slim, geometric clips and headbands. Rhinestone-studded bandeaus became a staple for the New Year's Eve party, their sparkle catching the light as couples danced the Charleston. By the 1950s, the hourglass silhouette and bouffant hairstyles returned, and with them, large decorative combs and sparkling barrettes that echoed the glamour of Hollywood. Each decade, the hair accessory served as a small, personal talisman for the year ahead.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Understanding the materials used in vintage festive accessories helps both collector and wearer appreciate their value. Early 20th-century combs were often crafted from genuine tortoiseshell (now illegal to trade) or its more affordable substitute, celluloid. Celluloid could be moulded into intricate shapes and dyed to imitate amber or horn. After the 1930s, bakelite and later acrylics offered new possibilities for bold, colourful designs. For New Year's Eve pieces, rhinestones – typically made from glass with a metallic foil backing – were the star. The best examples feature hand-set stones in silver or gold-toned settings, with prongs carefully bent to hold each stone securely. British manufacturers such as S. J. Phillips and Thomas Fattorini produced exquisite combs for the high-end market, while smaller workshops turned out charming, affordable alternatives for the middle classes.

What to Look for When Buying Vintage

• Condition of the setting: Check that prongs are not loose or missing, and that the metal has not corroded.
• Stone integrity: Avoid pieces with cloudy, chipped, or missing stones – replacements are difficult to match.
• Material authenticity: Learn to distinguish celluloid from bakelite (bakelite smells of formaldehyde when rubbed) and avoid modern reproductions.
• Backing and weight: A quality vintage comb will feel substantial and have a smooth, finished reverse side.
• Provenance: If possible, ask the seller about the piece's history – a documented Edwardian comb is a treasure.

Choosing a Vintage Piece for Your New Year's Look

Pairing a vintage hair accessory with a modern outfit requires a thoughtful balance. A 1920s rhinestone bandeau works beautifully with a sleek, minimalist dress – the sparkle becomes the focal point. For a 1950s inspired look, a large tortoiseshell comb complements a velvet gown or a structured tweed jacket. The key is to let the accessory lead; keep other jewellery understated. If you are attending a more casual gathering, a single vintage barrette with a small stone can add a touch of elegance without feeling overdressed. Remember that vintage pieces are often more delicate than modern ones – handle them gently when inserting into hair, and avoid styles that require tight pulling or twisting.

Caring for Your Festive Vintage Accessory

Proper care ensures that these heirlooms remain beautiful for years. Never submerge a vintage comb in water, as moisture can loosen stones or damage celluloid. Instead, wipe it with a soft, lint-free cloth after each wear. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cotton bud to gently remove dust from crevices, then dry immediately. Store combs flat in a lined jewellery box, away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid wrapping them in tissue paper that may snag on prongs. If a stone becomes loose, take the piece to a professional jeweller who specialises in vintage repairs – a dab of jeweller's glue may suffice, but only if applied with precision.

For those who wish to explore the craftsmanship of earlier decades further, the September 2017 archive offers a deep dive into the revival of hand-carved horn combs, a tradition that echoes the Edwardian love for natural materials. Meanwhile, readers interested in the metallic grace of silver accessories might enjoy our guide on bringing home the Silverbalenciaga way, which explores how silver-tone vintage pieces can elevate a modern wardrobe.

Before the clock strikes midnight on 31 December 2016, give your chosen vintage comb a gentle wipe with a soft, dry cloth to restore its lustre – a small ritual that honours the craftsmanship of decades past and welcomes the new year with a glint of history.