The Catarina Collection: Six Vintage-Inspired Hair Comb Colors

Among the recent reissues that have caught the eye of vintage hair accessory enthusiasts, the Catarina collection is notable for its deliberate, six-colour palette. Unlike limited runs that chase trends, this line nods to the enduring appeal of early‑20th‑century decorative combs and barrettes, but with a modern manufacturing precision that makes each shade consistent and collectable. The name itself recalls a Victorian hair ornament style often set with cabochon stones, yet the Catarina pieces are built for daily wear — acetate bases with subtle metal accents, light enough to stay secure in fine or thick hair.

The six colours are not arbitrary. Each was chosen to evoke a specific decade or material tradition: a soft coral recalling 1930s celluloid, a sage green that echoes Bakelite’s wartime production, a dusty lavender reminiscent of Edwardian millinery violets, an ivory with cream undertones that parallels 1920s French ivory, a charcoal grey that mirrors Victorian jet mourning jewellery, and a rose blush that winks at the 1950s passion for coral and pink. Together they form a versatile spectrum from neutral to pastel, designed to coexist with both period outfits and contemporary separates.

A Closer Look at the Six Catarina Colourways

Let’s walk through each shade as a collector would, noting both its visual character and the practical considerations that matter when adding a piece to your drawer or travel case.

Coral

This warm, translucent orange‑pink is the most statement‑driven of the set. It catches light beautifully and works well against dark or grey hair. Historically, coral shades were popular in 1930s French hair ornaments, often paired with cream-coloured dresses for seaside resorts. The Catarina coral leans slightly more muted than true celluloid, making it easier to integrate with a modern navy blazer or a cream silk blouse.

Sage Green

A matte, muted green with hints of olive. Sage green appears frequently in Bakelite pieces from the 1940s, a by‑product of wartime material restrictions. The Catarina version avoids the heavy ‘paint‑like’ finish of some replicas; instead it has a soft, almost dusty surface that feels gentle against the hair. Pair it with autumnal browns, forest greens, or a simple white cotton dress for a quiet nod to utility chic.

Lavender

Perhaps the most sought‑after colour among collectors. Pale lavender accents were a hallmark of Edwardian hair combs, often paired with silk ribbons and fresh flowers. The Catarina lavender is not overwhelmingly purple; it sits close to a very light lilac, almost grey in dim light. This makes it surprisingly wearable for everyday use. Keep it away from direct sunlight, as lavender acetates can shift toward a pinkish tone over years of exposure.

Ivory

Not a stark white, but a warm, creamy ivory with subtle yellow undertones — the kind of colour that looks like it has been gently aged. Ivory‑toned hair ornaments were ubiquitous in the 1920s, especially in carved French ivory and early synthetic substitutes. The Catarina ivory pairs effortlessly with everything from a crisp white shirt to a floral midi dress. It is also the most forgiving colour when it comes to showing small scratches or wear.

Charcoal

A deep, almost black grey with a slight sheen. Charcoal harkens back to Victorian jet, a black glass or hard‑rubber material used extensively for mourning jewellery and combs. The Catarina version is not glossy like jet; it has a satin finish that keeps it from feeling too sombre. Use it to anchor a bright pattern or to add a touch of restrained elegance to a LBD. It also hides frizz and lint better than any lighter shade.

Rose Blush

This soft pink with a whisper of peach is the wild card. Mid‑century hair accessories often used bright coral or hot pink, but the Catarina rose blush is deliberately subdued. It reads as a neutral pink, similar to the blush tones found in 1950S cherry‑blossom prints. It complements porcelain skin tones and warm brunettes especially well, and it adds a subtle romantic touch to a tailored shirt or a sweater.

Styling the Catarina Collection with Contemporary Wardrobes

What makes these six shades work is their ability to bridge eras without looking costumey. A charcoal Catarina comb can be used to tame a side part on a grey wool dress, while the same piece looks equally at home pinning back a section of hair under a modern leather jacket. For those building a capsule wardrobe, having one or two of these colours available can transform a simple ponytail or a low chignon into a deliberate style choice.

• Monochrome pairing: Use the ivory comb with a white or cream top to echo the 1920s head‑to‑toe monochrome look.
• Colour clash: The coral comb works beautifully against a sage green top — a complementary pairing that recalls 1970s boho layering.
• Evening touch: A lavender barrette or comb adds a soft glow under warm restaurant lighting; avoid direct overhead LED which can wash it out.
• Weekend casual: The rose blush comb is perfect for tucking back a few strands on a messy bun with a chunky knit sweater.

Caring for Your Catarina Accents

Acetate and metal‑accented hair accessories benefit from gentle handling. Avoid exposing them to hairspray, perfume, or alcohol‑based products, as these can dull the surface or cause the acetate to become brittle over time. When not in use, store each piece separately in a soft pouch or a lined box — the charcoal shade is particularly prone to picking up dust, and the coral can stain lighter fabrics if left in direct contact.

Cleaning is straightforward: a soft, dry cloth is usually enough. For more stubborn residue, a barely dampened microfiber cloth works, but wait until the accessory is completely dry before placing it back in storage. Never soak or use abrasive polish. If a metal hinge or clip becomes stiff, a tiny drop of mineral oil on a cotton bud, applied to the pivot, can restore smooth movement.

When storing a lavender Catarina comb, keep it away from direct sunlight in a velvet pouch to prevent fading of the delicate hue. The same caution applies to the rose blush, though it is slightly more fade‑resistant. The ivory and charcoal are the most colour‑stable and can be left on a dressing table without immediate risk.