The Nina Headband 1: A Quiet Revival of 1920s Elegance

The Nina Headband 1 draws its quiet confidence from the slender metal headbands that flapper girls wore to anchor their shingled bobs in the 1920s. Unlike the heavier, more ornate styles that followed in the 1950s, this piece stays true to the original ethos: a thin, adjustable band that sits almost weightlessly on the crown, just behind the hairline. What sets it apart is the small, hand-set enamel detail—a tiny geometric flower in deep burgundy and cream—that catches the light without overwhelming the silhouette. The band itself is made from polished brass, plated in a warm gold tone that mellows with wear, never turning brassy. It is a deliberate choice for the collector who values subtlety over statement.

Design and Materials

The Nina Headband 1 is constructed from a single piece of brass that has been hand-formed into a gentle arc. The width is a mere 5 millimetres—narrow enough to disappear into thick hair, yet sturdy enough to hold its shape after years of use. The enamel detail is applied using a technique called plique-à-jour, where the coloured enamel is suspended in a metal framework without a backing, allowing light to pass through. This creates a subtle stained-glass effect that shifts colour depending on the angle of the light. Each piece is individually finished, so minor variations in the enamel pattern are a sign of genuine craftsmanship, not a flaw.

The headband is adjustable, unlike many vintage pieces that rely on a fixed size. Two small sliding mechanisms on the underside allow the band to be shortened or lengthened by up to 2 centimetres, accommodating a range of head shapes and hair volumes. This feature is rare in period-appropriate reproductions and makes the Nina Headband 1 suitable for both fine hair and thicker textures.

Historical Inspiration

The 1920s saw a revolution in hair accessories. As women cut their hair short, they needed ways to keep it in place that didn’t rely on heavy pins or elaborate combs. Metal headbands became the go-to solution, often decorated with geometric motifs, abstract flowers, or simple Art Deco lines. The Nina Headband 1 pays homage to this era, but its enamel work is more delicate than the bold, primary colours often seen in period pieces. The burgundy and cream palette is a nod to the British Arts and Crafts movement, which favoured muted, natural tones over the garish aniline dyes of the early twentieth century. This colour choice makes the headband versatile enough to wear with a 1920s drop-waist dress or a modern cashmere jumper.

In the 1970s, metal headbands returned briefly, but those were often wider and more sculptural, with a Space Age aesthetic. The Nina Headband 1 deliberately avoids that era’s chunky look, instead returning to the refinement of the 1920s prototype. It is a quiet revival, not a reissue.

Styling the Nina Headband 1

Because the headband is slim and the enamel detail is small, it works best when hair is worn in a way that exposes the crown. A deep side part, a low ponytail, or a sleek chignon all allow the piece to sit unobtrusively. For a more casual look, tuck the headband into loose waves—the metal will hold the hair back without flattening the volume. If you have a short bob, wear the headband slightly forward, about 2 centimetres behind the hairline, to frame the face without covering the forehead.

The enamel flower is off-centre, so the headband can be rotated to place the detail at the temple or at the back of the head, depending on the hairstyle. This versatility is one of its strongest attributes. For a coordinated look, consider pairing it with a small, matching bow barrette—such as the Kelly Bow, which we explored in a previous article on iconic British hair accessories—but keep the colour palette consistent: avoid bright reds or pinks that would compete with the burgundy enamel.

Care and Maintenance

Brass plated with gold requires gentle handling. Avoid getting the headband wet—water can seep under the enamel and cause it to lift. If the band becomes tarnished, wipe it with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use jewellery cleaning solutions, as they can strip the gold plating. Store the headband in a separate pouch or wrapped in acid-free tissue paper to prevent scratches from other accessories. The sliding adjustments should be checked periodically; if they feel stiff, a tiny drop of mineral oil on the moving parts will restore smoothness.

Unlike the triple-twist elegance of the Velvet Twist Headband 3, a separate article on our blog, the Nina Headband 1 is a single-band design that relies on simplicity. Its care routine is correspondingly straightforward—no steaming, no reshaping. Just keep it dry and stored flat, and it will remain a faithful companion for decades.

Practical Tips for Collectors

• When trying on the headband, adjust it while the hair is still dry—wet hair changes shape and may give a false sense of fit.
• If you plan to wear the headband with a hat, choose a soft cloche or a beret that sits behind the crown; stiff brims can snag the enamel.
• For a modern British look, pair the Nina Headband 1 with a tweed blazer and a silk scarf tied at the neck—the contrast of textures is effortless and feels distinctly London.

The Nina Headband 1 is not a trend piece. It is a considered accessory that rewards attention to detail. Its enamel may be small, but the craftsmanship is large. Whether you are a seasoned collector of 1920s revival pieces or someone who simply wants one well-made headband that will never look dated, this is a piece that earns its place in your rotation.