The Store p574 Bebe Ric Rac Scalloped Edge Hairclip: A Collector’s Guide

The Store p574 Bebe Ric Rac Scalloped Edge Hairclip is a small mid-century British accessory that combines a metal spring clip with a fabric overlay trimmed in zigzag ric rac. Its name hints at its scale and decoration: "bebe" signals a dainty size, "ric rac" the zigzag trim, and "scalloped edge" the soft curves. For collectors, the appeal is in the details—how the fabric was attached, the pastel colours, and the fact that it was an everyday item, not a formal piece.

Design and Materials: A Study in Contrast

The p574 clip is typically crafted from a lightweight metal base—often brass or steel—that has been plated or painted in a soft pastel tone. The defining feature is a fabric overlay, usually cotton or a fine synthetic blend, cut and sewn into a scalloped silhouette. The ric rac trim is applied along the outer edge of each scallop, creating a rhythmic zigzag that catches the light. This combination of rigid metal and soft textile was unusual for mass-produced clips of the era, which more often relied on moulded plastics or stamped metal alone. The p574 feels almost like a piece of miniature millinery, as if it had been lifted from a child’s party dress and scaled up for an adult woman.

Colour Palette and Variations

Most surviving examples of the p574 appear in pale shades: blush pink, powder blue, butter yellow, and a very light mint green. These colours align with the pastel craze that swept British fashion in the mid-1950s, partly influenced by the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. A smaller number of clips were produced in darker tones—navy, forest green, or burgundy—likely intended for autumn and winter wardrobes. The ric rac trim on these darker versions is often white or cream, providing a crisp contrast. Because the fabric was glued or stitched to the metal base, many clips show signs of age where the adhesive has yellowed or the thread has loosened. That patina, however, is part of their charm for collectors who value authentic wear.

How the p574 Fits into Mid-Century British Hair Accessories

The 1950s and early 1960s saw a boom in decorative hair clips, driven by the popularity of short, sculpted hairstyles such as the poodle cut and the French roll. Women needed small, secure clips that could hold a wave or a twist without slipping. The p574’s scalloped edge and fabric surface provided grip without snagging, making it a practical choice for fine or medium hair. It was sold in department stores and independent haberdasheries, often displayed on cards alongside matching barrettes and combs. Unlike the more ornate P297 Velvet Crown Headband, which was designed for formal occasions and required careful placement, the p574 was an everyday accessory—a small indulgence that added a touch of whimsy to a simple blouse or a cardigan.

Interestingly, the “bebe” designation may indicate that the clip was originally marketed toward younger women or as a “young miss” line. In the post-war era, British manufacturers often released scaled-down versions of adult accessories for teenagers, with slightly smaller dimensions and a more playful aesthetic. The p574 measures roughly 5 cm across, making it noticeably smaller than a standard barrette. This compact size means it works beautifully in modern hair as a subtle accent, especially when paired with low ponytails or half-up styles.

Styling the p574 Today

One of the greatest pleasures of collecting vintage hair clips is discovering how seamlessly they integrate with contemporary wardrobes. The p574’s soft pastels and gentle scallops complement the current resurgence of 1950s-inspired silhouettes—A-line skirts, collared blouses, and cropped cardigans. But it also works surprisingly well with minimalist, monochromatic outfits. A single blush-pink clip placed at the side of a low bun can break up a severe neckline, while a pair of clips (one on each side) echoes the symmetry of mid-century design without feeling costumey.

For those who prefer a more eclectic look, try layering the p574 with other vintage pieces. A velvet scrunchie from the same era, such as the one discussed in The Store P276 Maison Archives Velvet Scrunchy: A Collector's Guide, can anchor a ponytail while the scalloped clip adds detail near the temple. Alternatively, use the clip to secure a silk scarf tied around a high bun—a technique that was popular in the 1950s and has recently returned to fashion runways.

Care and Preservation: Keeping the Fabric Alive

Because the p574 combines metal and textile, it requires a gentler approach than all-metal clips. Here are practical steps for maintaining its condition:

• Cleaning the fabric: Avoid submerging the clip in water. Instead, use a soft, dry brush (a clean makeup brush works well) to remove dust from the scalloped edges. If the fabric has a small stain, dab it lightly with a cotton swab dipped in distilled water, then blot immediately with a dry cloth. Never rub, as this can fray the ric rac trim.
• Checking the metal: Look for signs of rust or corrosion on the spring mechanism. A tiny drop of sewing machine oil on the hinge can keep the clip opening smoothly. Wipe away any excess oil to prevent it from seeping into the fabric.
• Storage: Store the clip flat in a fabric-lined box, away from direct sunlight. Pastel fabrics are especially prone to fading. If you have multiple clips, separate them with acid-free tissue paper to prevent the ric rac from catching on neighbouring pieces.
• Wear with care: The fabric overlay is delicate. Avoid using the clip in wet hair, as moisture can weaken the adhesive. Also be mindful of hairspray or styling products that could leave residue on the textile.

These preservation techniques are similar to those recommended for other fabric-based accessories, such as the velvet scrunchy mentioned earlier. The key is to treat the clip as a fragile textile object rather than a sturdy piece of hardware.

Identifying Authenticity and Common Pitfalls

As with any vintage collectible, reproductions exist. The p574’s distinctive scalloped edge and ric rac trim are relatively easy to replicate, but authentic examples have a few telltale signs. Look for a metal spring clip rather than a plastic alligator clip—the latter is a later innovation. The fabric should be attached with visible stitching along the inner edge, not glued in a single thick layer. Also, check the back of the clip for a small stamp or engraving. Genuine Store-branded pieces from the 1950s often have a very faint “Store” mark or a code number (e.g., “574”) on the metal hinge. However, many unbranded clips were sold through independent shops, so the absence of a mark does not automatically mean a repro.

One common mistake is confusing the p574 with the later “ric rac” clips of the 1970s, which used wider, machine-made ric rac and often featured polyester fabrics in bright orange or avocado green. The mid-century version has a finer, hand-finished look. The scallops on the p574 are also more uniform and closely spaced—typically eight to ten scallops per clip—whereas later versions might have only four or five large scallops.

Where to Look and What to Expect

Finding a p574 in good condition requires patience. They appear most often at vintage fairs in the UK, particularly those specialising in 1940s–1960s fashion. Online marketplaces are another source, but photographs can be misleading. Always ask the seller for a picture of the clip opened, so you can inspect the hinge and the underside of the fabric. Prices vary widely: a clip with intact fabric and no rust might cost between £15 and £40, while a rare colour like mint green or burgundy can fetch upwards of £60. Sets of two matching clips are especially desirable and command a premium.

If you are new to collecting vintage hair accessories, the p574 is an excellent starting point. Its small size means it is easy to store and display, and its design is versatile enough to be worn daily. And because it is not as widely known as some other mid-century styles, you have a good chance of finding one that has not been picked over by other collectors.

If you're lucky enough to find a p574 in mint green or burgundy, consider keeping it in a small display case rather than wearing it daily—those rare colours are hard to come by. But if you do wear it, use it on dry hair only, and store it flat in a fabric-lined box. That way, the scalloped edges and ric rac will stay intact for another fifty years.