Store P341 Rectangle Barrette: A Vintage Hair Clip Worth Knowing
The rectangle barrette coded p341 appears with surprising frequency in vintage hair accessory collections across Britain, yet its origins are often misunderstood. Unlike the more famous P339 or P340 siblings, the p341 variant carries subtle differences in clasp construction and metal composition that mark it as a transitional design between the late 1950s and early 1960s. For collectors who focus on British haberdashery catalogues, understanding this specific code opens a window into the manufacturing practices of post-war accessory houses.
Decoding the p341 Catalogue Number
During the 1950s, British manufacturers such as Bettie, Maison, and smaller Birmingham-based workshops assigned numerical codes to their hair accessory lines. The prefix 'p' often indicated a 'pin' or 'pressure' mechanism, while the three-digit number referred to the specific mould, batch, or finish. The p341 rectangle barrette typically features a rectangular face measuring approximately 6.5 by 2 centimetres, with a spring-loaded metal clip on the reverse. Unlike earlier models that used a simple pinch clasp, the p341 introduced a reinforced hinge with a small tension screw – a detail that greatly improved durability.
Collectors should note that the p341 code is sometimes stamped on the inside of the clip, often alongside a tiny hallmark or the letters 'B' or 'M' for the manufacturer. This stamping is shallow and can wear away over decades, so a magnifying glass is your best friend during inspection. As with the decoding of the p106 Malena Dul Uno label on vintage hair combs, understanding the catalogue number is key to dating these pieces. The p341 appears to have been produced from 1957 to 1962, based on the materials used – a transition from early cellulose acetate to more durable polystyrene blends.
Materials and Craftsmanship
Most p341 barrettes were made from a single piece of moulded plastic, often in tortoiseshell, jet black, or deep burgundy. A smaller number were metal-backed with a thin layer of sterling silver or gold plate, though these are rarer and command higher prices. The rectangular face could be left plain, but many examples feature a subtle geometric engraving – parallel lines, a diamond grid, or a single central groove. The engraving was not merely decorative; it helped the barrette grip finer hair without slipping.
The spring mechanism inside the clip deserves special attention. Early p341s used a steel spring that was prone to rust if exposed to moisture. Later versions (circa 1960) switched to a nickel-plated spring, which is far more resilient. When examining a potential purchase, open and close the clip several times. A smooth, consistent resistance indicates the spring is still in good condition. If you hear a grinding noise or feel uneven pressure, the barrette may need professional repair.
Materials Overview Table
| Material | Era | Durability | Collector Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cellulose acetate (tortoiseshell) | 1957–1959 | Moderate – can become brittle | High – classic look |
| Polystyrene (solid colour) | 1959–1962 | Good – resistant to warping | Medium – common but versatile |
| Sterling silver with gold wash | 1957–1960 | Excellent – tarnish requires care | Very high – rare find |
How to Style a p341 Rectangle Barrette Today
The rectangle barrette’s clean lines make it a natural companion for modern minimalist outfits. Slide one into a low side-part to add a touch of mid-century polish to a cashmere jumper and wide-leg trousers. For evening wear, a tortoiseshell p341 pairs beautifully with a silk slip dress and gold hoop earrings. The key is to let the barrette sit slightly off-centre – the asymmetry feels contemporary while honouring the original 1950s styling.
If you have thick or curly hair, choose a p341 with the reinforced hinge; the extra grip will hold a French twist or a half-up bun securely. For finer hair, the plain-faced versions with a textured inner grip are ideal. Avoid overloading the clip with too much hair – these barrettes were designed for a section of hair about the width of two fingers.
A particularly charming way to wear the p341 is in a 'double clip' arrangement: use two identical barrettes (one on each side of a centre part) to frame the face. This look was popular in 1960s British fashion magazines and has recently returned on runways. The p341’s modest size – not too large, not too small – makes it perfect for this symmetrical styling.
Bereavement and Preservation: Caring for Your p341
Vintage plastic barrettes require gentle handling. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight for long periods, as UV rays can cause fading and embrittlement. Store each barrette individually in an acid-free tissue paper or a soft cotton pouch. If you keep several p341s together, separate them with a layer of felt to prevent scratches.
Cleaning should be minimal. For light dust, use a soft, dry microfibre cloth. If the barrette has accumulated grime around the hinge, dip a cotton bud in distilled water and gently dab – never submerge the whole piece. Metal versions can be polished with a dedicated silver cloth, but avoid getting any polish on the spring mechanism.
For a comprehensive approach to preserving your collection, our article on archiving C7 tops and blouses hair accessories offers practical digital cataloguing methods that can be applied equally to barrettes. Photographing the underside stamp and noting the p341 code in your inventory will make future identification much easier.
Where to Find Authentic p341 Barrettes
British car boot sales, vintage fairs in the Cotswolds, and online marketplaces specialising in mid-century accessories are the best hunting grounds. Prices typically range from £8 to £25 for a plastic example in good condition, while silver or gold-plated versions can reach £60 or more. Be cautious of modern reproductions that mimic the rectangular shape but lack the characteristic spring mechanism. A genuine p341 will always have that small tension screw visible on the underside of the clip – a detail modern makers often omit.
Also examine the colour depth. Vintage cellulose acetate has a warmth and slight translucency that modern injection-moulded plastic cannot replicate. Hold the barrette up to a window; if the light passes through with a soft amber glow, you are likely holding an original.
A Final Practical Note
When you next come across a p341 barrette at a car boot sale, check the spring tension and the hallmark on the clasp – these small details reveal whether you have a 1950s original or a later revival. And if the clip feels a little stiff, a single drop of sewing machine oil on the hinge pivot (applied with a toothpick) can often restore smooth operation. That simple act of care keeps a piece of British hair accessory history alive for another generation.