The Imogen Silky Bow Barrette in Navy: A Vintage British Classic
Navy is one of those colours that quietly holds its own in the world of vintage hair accessories. Unlike black, which can feel severe, or pastels, which risk sweetness, navy offers depth without drama. The Imogen Silky Bow Barrette in Navy exemplifies this perfectly—a piece that feels both restrained and utterly luxurious, equally at home in a 1950s re-creation or a modern minimalist wardrobe.
This barrette belongs to a lineage of British-made silk-finish accessories that first appeared in the mid-20th century, when small, family-run workshops in London and the Home Counties began experimenting with coated fabrics and precision metal clips. The Imogen range, named after a popular 1940s film star, became known for its soft, almost liquid sheen and its ability to hold thick hair without slipping. The navy version, in particular, was a favourite among women who wanted something more interesting than brown or tortoiseshell but more versatile than a bold red or emerald.
What sets the Imogen apart from other bow barrettes is the way the fabric is wrapped. The silk-like material is folded and stitched by hand around a lightweight metal core, creating a bow that keeps its shape even after years of use. The navy shade is not a flat, dull blue—it has a subtle iridescence, catching the light in a way that reminds me of a starling’s wing or deep-sea silk. This is the kind of detail that vintage enthusiasts treasure: a colour that looks simple at first glance but reveals complexity on closer inspection.
For collectors, the Imogen Silky Bow Barrette in Navy is a relatively accessible piece. It was produced in large numbers during the 1950s and 1960s, and many examples survive in good condition because the metal clip—usually a French-style spring mechanism—was well-made and easy to repair. The bow itself measures approximately 6 cm across, a size that works beautifully for half-up styles, securing a side sweep, or adding a quiet accent to a low chignon.
If you are considering adding one to your collection, here are a few things to look for:
- Original finish: The navy coating should have a smooth, even sheen. Avoid pieces where the fabric has frayed at the edges or where the colour has faded to a greenish tint—this indicates poor storage or exposure to sunlight.
- Clip tension: The spring should snap closed firmly but not require force to open. Loose clips can be tightened by a jeweller, but a broken spring is difficult to replace.
- Maker’s mark: Some Imogen barrettes have a tiny stamp on the inside of the clip, reading “IMOGEN LONDON” or simply “IMOGEN”. This is not essential for authenticity, but it does add provenance.
Styling the Imogen Navy Bow Barrette Today
The beauty of this accessory lies in its versatility. Navy is a neutral with character—it pairs effortlessly with denim, cream, grey, and even black, but it also works as a subtle contrast against brighter colours like mustard, coral, or mint. Here are three ways to wear it in a contemporary context:
- With a crisp white shirt and tailored trousers: The navy bow adds a soft, feminine touch to an otherwise sharp silhouette. Slide the barrette into a low side part, letting the bow sit just above the ear.
- With a chunky knit and corduroy skirt: This is a very British autumn look. The navy picks up the depth of the corduroy, while the silky finish provides a textural contrast to the wool.
- With a floral midi dress: If the dress contains any blue or navy in its pattern, the barrette will tie the look together beautifully. It also works as a deliberate mismatch—navy against a warm-toned floral can look intentionally eclectic.
One of my favourite ways to style the Imogen is in a low, loose bun, with the bow placed at the nape of the neck. This echoes the elegant, understated hairstyles of the 1960s, when women often used a single accessory to anchor an entire look. The navy barrette is particularly effective against grey or silver hair, where its sheen becomes even more pronounced.
For those who love exploring the history of similar pieces, our article on The Pink Cloud Clip: A British Vintage Hair Accessory with Staying Power delves into another iconic shape from the same era, showing how British manufacturers experimented with colour and form in the post-war decades.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The Imogen Silky Bow Barrette is a study in thoughtful construction. The outer fabric is a rayon-based satin, chosen for its ability to hold a crisp shape while remaining soft to the touch. The inner core is a thin strip of spring steel, which gives the barrette its grip. The bow is pleated in the centre, with the folds secured by a single stitch that is hidden under the clip housing.
This method of construction is surprisingly durable. I have handled Imogen barrettes from the early 1960s that still hold their shape perfectly, with no sagging or distortion. The navy dye, when properly stored away from direct sunlight, retains its depth for decades. The only common issue is oxidation of the metal clip, which can cause small rust spots on the fabric if the barrette is stored in a damp environment.
To care for your Imogen barrette, follow these simple steps:
- Store flat in a fabric-lined box or drawer. Do not hang it, as the weight of the clip can stretch the bow over time.
- Keep away from humidity. A silica gel packet in your jewellery box can help prevent rust.
- Clean gently with a dry, soft cloth. If the fabric becomes soiled, dab it very lightly with a barely damp cloth and let it air dry completely before storing. Never submerge the barrette in water.
- Avoid hairspray and perfume: These products can dull the sheen of the fabric and leave sticky residues that attract dust.
Where the Imogen Fits in British Hair Accessory History
The Imogen range appeared at a time when British women were moving away from the heavy, structured hats of the 1940s and towards simpler, more wearable accessories. The early 1950s saw a boom in small, decorative barrettes and clips, partly driven by the popularity of shorter hairstyles that needed less pinning but still wanted ornament. The Imogen Silky Bow Barrette, with its clean lines and modest size, was perfectly suited to this new mood.
Navy, as a colour, had a particular resonance in post-war Britain. It was associated with naval uniforms, school uniforms, and the practical, no-nonsense aesthetic that many women embraced during the austerity years. But in the hands of a good designer, navy became glamorous—a colour that suggested quiet confidence rather than mere practicality. The Imogen barrette captures this duality perfectly: it is both sensible and beautiful.
If you are interested in the broader story of how British hair accessories evolved through the 20th century, I recommend reading The Red Velvet Crown: A Century of British Hair Accessory History, which traces the shift from ornate Victorian combs to the sleek, modern designs of the 1960s.
How to Authenticate and Value an Imogen Navy Barrette
Authenticity matters to collectors, and the Imogen barrette is a good example of a piece that is often reproduced but rarely imitated well. The original versions have a specific weight and feel—the bow is dense but not heavy, and the clip opens with a smooth, even resistance. Reproduction pieces tend to use cheaper materials, resulting in a bow that feels hollow or a clip that is either too stiff or too loose.
Here is a quick checklist for evaluating a potential purchase:
| Feature | Original Imogen | Common Reproduction |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric sheen | Soft, iridescent, even | Flat, plastic-like shine |
| Bow shape | Crisp pleats, holds form | Flabby or overstuffed |
| Clip marking | “IMOGEN” or “IMOGEN LONDON” | No marking or generic |
| Weight | 12–15 grams | Under 10 grams |
Prices vary depending on condition and provenance. A good-condition Imogen navy barrette with clear maker’s marks and no fabric damage typically sells for £25–£45 in British vintage markets and online auctions. Pieces with original packaging or from a known collection can command higher prices, but for most wearers, a well-preserved barrette at the lower end of that range is a perfectly sound investment.
One final thought: the Imogen Silky Bow Barrette in Navy is not a loud accessory. It does not demand attention. But that is precisely its strength. In a world of fast fashion and disposable trends, a small, well-made navy bow barrette reminds us that true elegance is often quiet. It asks you to look closer, to appreciate the craft, and to wear something that carries a story.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or someone just beginning to explore vintage hair accessories, the Imogen navy barrette is a piece that will serve you well for years. It works with your wardrobe, not against it. It adds polish without fuss. And it connects you to a tradition of British design that values substance over spectacle.