The Quiet Power of 1970s Two-Piece Hair Clip Sets

In 1970s London, a two-piece set of tortoiseshell hair clips was the quiet signal of a woman who understood proportion. The matched pair, often sold in a small velvet box, allowed her to create a deliberate symmetry that felt both modern and timeless. These sets—whether of clips, combs, or headbands—are among the most collectible accessories from the decade, and they remain surprisingly wearable today.

What Exactly Is a Two-Piece Set?

A two-piece set in the context of vintage hair accessories is a pair of items designed to be worn together. Unlike buying two separate pieces, a set is manufactured as a coordinated unit—same pattern, same finish, same maker. In the 1970s, British brands such as Riviera, Elegant, and smaller artisanal makers produced these sets in materials ranging from glossy acetate to brushed metal. Common configurations include:

• Two identical barrettes (often used to pin back both sides of the hair)
• A headband and a matching clip (the clip secures the headband or adds an accent)
• A decorative comb and a small clip (the comb tucks hair behind the ear, the clip sits above it)
• Two small hair claws (used for half-up styles or to hold a scarf)

The appeal lies in the intentional harmony—the set creates a finished look without effort.

Materials and Craftsmanship of the 1970s

The 1970s saw a shift from earlier natural materials like horn and tortoiseshell (now protected) to synthetic alternatives that mimicked the look while being affordable and durable. Cellulose acetate was the star—it could be layered to create marbled patterns, tortoiseshell effects, and rich amber tones. Many two-piece sets were made from this material, with the pieces cut from the same sheet to guarantee a perfect match.

Metal sets, often in brass or silver plate, featured geometric cut-outs or enamel inlays. Some incorporated semi-precious stone beads, a detail that collectors prize today. For a deeper look at how these beads appear in vintage accessories, the Semi-Precious Stone Beads in Vintage Hair Accessories: A Collector’s Guide offers excellent reference points. Fabric sets, such as velvet-covered headbands with matching fabric clips, were also popular, especially for evening wear.

Manufacturing techniques included hand-painting for detailed floral or Art Deco-inspired motifs, stamping for metal pieces, and injection molding for plastic items. The joinery—how the clip spring attaches to the body—varies by brand and era, and a well-made set will show clean rivets and even tension.

Iconic Silhouettes and Styles

Certain silhouettes define the 1970s two-piece set. The oversized clip, measuring three to four inches long, was a staple for the decade's voluminous hairstyles. These clips often have a slight curve to grip the hair securely. The banana clip set—two curved pieces that interlock to hold a ponytail—became a cult item, especially in marbled acetate.

Small barrette sets, about two inches long, were used for half-up styles or to secure side-swept bangs. Headband-and-clip sets offered versatility: the headband could be worn alone, and the clip could be used as a brooch or to hold a scarf. The comb-and-clip set, less common but highly collectible, features a decorative comb with a matching clip that sits at the temple.

Collectors who enjoy building a purposeful archive will find that two-piece sets are an ideal starting point—they are complete, often come in original packaging, and represent a specific moment in fashion. The Art of the Collection: Building a Vintage Hair Clip Archive with Purpose provides strategies for curating such sets.

Finding Vintage Two-Piece Sets

British charity shops remain excellent hunting grounds, especially in smaller towns where decades-old accessories still turn up. Vintage fairs and antique markets in cities like Brighton, Bath, and Edinburgh often have dedicated stallholders who specialize in 1970s fashion. Online platforms can be useful, but always ask for detailed photos of the set together—many sellers list individual pieces separately, and you want to confirm the match.

When inspecting a set, check for:

• Colour consistency: both pieces should have the same depth of shade and pattern
• Spring tension: clip springs should open and close smoothly without sticking
• Surface condition: avoid pieces with crazing (fine cracks) or heavy scratches
• Original packaging: a box or card with the brand name adds provenance

Sets that come with their original box or card are more valuable, but even loose sets can be restored with gentle cleaning.

Styling a 1970s Two-Piece Set Today

The beauty of these sets is their adaptability. Wear both clips symmetrically on each side of a centre part for a clean, retro look. Alternatively, use one clip in the hair and the other as a brooch on a jacket lapel—a trick that modern stylists love. A headband-and-clip set can be worn with the headband across the forehead and the clip securing a low ponytail.

Pair a tortoiseshell set with a cream linen dress or a simple white blouse to let the accessory stand out. For an edgier vibe, wear a metal geometric set with a black leather jacket. The key is to keep the rest of the outfit minimal; the set provides the pattern and colour.

Caring for Your Vintage Set

Acetate and plastic pieces can become brittle over time, so handle them with care. Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth—never use alcohol or acetone, as these can damage the finish. For metal sets, a gentle polish with a non-abrasive silver cloth works well. Store each piece separately in an acid-free tissue paper wrap to prevent scratching. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and accelerate degradation. A simple routine of gentle cleaning after each wear—using a soft, dry cloth—will preserve the patina that makes a 1970s two-piece set so distinctive.