The Store P369 Leaf Hair Clip: A Collector’s Guide

The code P369 identifies a small metal leaf clip that turns up regularly at British flea markets and vintage stalls. Measuring about 5 cm long, die-cast in a zinc alloy and finished with gold-toned plating, it's a modest but elegant accessory. It's not a famous designer piece, nor does it carry a hallmark. Yet its graceful silhouette and practical spring mechanism have made it a favourite among collectors of mid-century British hair ornaments. The leaf shape, with crisp vein details and sometimes a hint of green or brown enamel, gives it a natural charm. The clip's code, stamped faintly on the underside, hints at its department-store origins in the 1950s and 1960s.

What Exactly Is the Store P369 Leaf Hair Clip?

The code “p369” appears to be a stock or catalogue number used by a British wholesaler or department store during the 1950s and 1960s. The clip itself is a die-cast metal barrette, typically about 5 cm long, shaped like a stylised leaf. The vein details are pressed into the metal, and the surface is often finished with a gold-toned plating or, less commonly, a silver-toned one. Some examples carry a thin layer of green or brown enamel in the recessed veins, adding a subtle hint of colour. The back features a simple alligator-style spring clip, the kind that opens by pressing two metal tabs. It is unmarked except for the code “369” or “P369” stamped faintly on the underside of the clip mechanism.

A Brief History: Why Leaves?

Leaf motifs enjoyed a long run in British jewellery and accessory design, but they peaked in the post-war period. The early 1950s saw a return to nature-inspired shapes as a reaction against wartime austerity. By the 1960s, the leaf had become a staple of the “mod” look – clean, geometric, and slightly organic. The P369 clip fits perfectly into that era. It is not a fine jewellery piece; it was mass-produced for everyday wear, sold in department stores like Woolworths, Boots, or local haberdasheries. Its affordability and durability made it a popular choice for women who wanted a touch of elegance without the cost of sterling silver or real gemstones.

Materials and Construction: What to Look For

Authentic P369 clips are made from a zinc-based alloy (often called “white metal” or “pot metal”) that is then electroplated. The plating can wear off over time, revealing a dull grey base. The spring mechanism is steel, and it may show rust if stored in a damp environment. The enamel, if present, is usually a cold-painted resin that can chip or fade. When you find one, check these details:

• Weight: Genuine metal clips have a satisfying heft – not too heavy, but definitely not flimsy plastic.
• Vein pattern: The leaf veins are crisp and symmetrical. Reproductions often have blurry or simplified lines.
• Spring action: The original alligator clip should open and close with a firm snap. Loose or squeaky springs may indicate wear, but they can often be tightened.
• Markings: Look for “369” or “P369” stamped on the flat part of the clip back. Not all examples have it, but the presence of the code is a strong authenticity marker.

Styling the P369 Leaf Clip Today

The beauty of this clip is its versatility. It works with both vintage and contemporary outfits. Here are three ways to wear it:

1. The 1960s Side Sweep

Part your hair deeply to one side and clip the leaf just above the ear, holding back a section of hair. Pair with a shift dress and kitten heels for an authentic mod look.

2. The Low Chignon Accent

Gather your hair into a low bun at the nape of the neck. Slide the leaf clip horizontally into the bun, letting the leaf tip peek out. This works beautifully with a cashmere jumper or a tweed blazer.

3. The Half-Up, Half-Down Casual

Take a small section of hair from each temple, twist them back, and secure with the leaf clip at the crown. It adds a subtle focal point without overwhelming the hairstyle. Perfect for a weekend market visit.

Care and Preservation

Because the P369 clip is made of plated base metal, it requires gentle handling. To keep it in good condition:

• Avoid water: Remove the clip before washing your hair or swimming. Moisture can lift the plating and rust the spring.
• Store separately: Keep the clip in a soft pouch or a compartmented box to prevent scratches from other jewellery.
• Clean sparingly: Wipe with a dry, lint-free cloth after each wear. If tarnish appears, use a very mild jewellery polishing cloth – never use liquid polish that could seep into the spring.
• Fix a loose spring: If the clip no longer holds tightly, you can gently squeeze the two metal tabs closer together with pliers (wrap the tips with tape to avoid scratching). Test on an inconspicuous part first.

How the P369 Fits into a Vintage Collection

For a collector of British hair accessories, the P369 leaf clip is a wonderful entry point. It is still relatively affordable – typically £5–£15 depending on condition – and it represents a specific moment in high-street fashion. Unlike the more elaborate pearl-embellished headbands or the structured rectangle barrettes that dominate many collections, the leaf clip has a whimsical, organic quality. It pairs well with other nature-inspired pieces, such as a Puka shell bracelet from the 1970s, creating a bohemian yet refined aesthetic. If you enjoy decoding old stock numbers, you might also find interest in how other codes were used – for example, the Store p105 Malena Dul Uno code links to a different 1960s hair accessory archive. But the P369 remains a standalone gem, easy to recognise and a joy to wear.

One Final Practical Note

Before you buy a P369 clip at a charity shop or online auction, test the spring. If it snaps shut with a firm bite, you've got a wearable piece of 1960s high-street fashion. A quick buff with a soft cloth often reveals the gold tone underneath. If the enamel is chipped, a tiny dab of model paint in matching green or brown can fix it—but only if you're comfortable with a minor restoration. Otherwise, the worn look adds character. The most important thing is that the clip still holds your hair securely; that's what makes it a functioning piece of history. And if you find one with intact enamel and a strong spring, you've got a little gem of mid-century British design that still does its job.