The C38 Judy Andrews Hair Clip: A Collector’s Guide to a Post-War British Treasure

Among the most elusive codes in vintage British hair accessories, C38 refers to a small but distinctive collection of clips produced under the name Judy Andrews between 1948 and 1952. Unlike the mass-produced barrettes of the era, these pieces were hand-assembled in a workshop near Birmingham, using a combination of French celluloid and English rolled gold. The typical C38 clip measures just 4.5 cm in length, with a curved back that grips medium-to-thick hair without slipping. What makes them instantly recognisable is the central motif: a single enamel daisy with a faceted amber glass centre, set against a delicately engraved background. Collectors who have held one note the surprising weight – the rolled gold is thicker than most costume jewellery of the period, suggesting Andrews intended these clips to be worn daily, not just for best.

To understand the C38 code, it helps to know that Judy Andrews was not a fashion house but a pattern-cutter turned designer who worked briefly for the British subsidiary of a French accessories firm. When the parent company closed its London office in 1947, Andrews bought the remaining stock of dies and tooling, and began producing her own line under her maiden name. The C38 designation was her own internal catalogue number for the daisy motif clip, but the code has since become shorthand among dealers for any piece from her short-lived workshop. The clips were sold in small chemist shops and independent haberdashers in the Midlands, never in department stores, which explains their scarcity today.

Materials and Construction

The C38 clip uses a two-part construction. The base is a single piece of honey-coloured celluloid, cut and moulded into a gentle curve. Celluloid was a common choice for affordable hair accessories in the 1940s, but Andrews specified a higher-grade sheet that resists the yellowing and brittleness typical of cheaper examples. The metal element is a thin sheet of rolled gold – 9 carat gold bonded to a brass core – which is stamped with the daisy motif and then riveted to the celluloid. The rivets are tiny, almost invisible, and are set from the reverse side so they do not snag hair. The amber glass centre is faceted by hand, a detail that catches light differently from every angle.

One of the most common mistakes when identifying a genuine C38 clip is to confuse the engraved background with machine-pressed patterns. On authentic pieces, the background is cross-hatched using a fine burin, giving a slightly irregular, hand-done look. Reproductions from the 1970s used a uniform texture and often lack the rolled gold mark. Inside the clip, the C38 stamp is usually found on the metal spring hinge – a tiny ‘C38’ followed by ‘J.A.’ in script. No other markings are present, as Andrews did not trademark her name until 1953, a year after production ceased.

Era and Silhouette

The C38 clip was designed for the post-war ‘New Look’ silhouette popularised by Christian Dior in 1947. Women wore their hair in soft waves or short curls, and a small clip like this was used to secure a side-swept section or to hold a scarf in place. The daisy motif was deliberately chosen to echo the floral prints on many day dresses of the period. Unlike the heavy, ornate combs of the 1920s, the C38 is understated – it is meant to be glimpsed rather than announced. This subtlety is part of its charm and explains why it pairs so well with modern minimalist outfits.

How to Identify a Genuine C38 Judy Andrews Clip

• Check the weight: genuine clips feel heavier than they look due to the rolled gold.
• Examine the enamel: it should be slightly raised, with a glossy finish that does not chip easily.
• Look for the hand-engraved background – a magnifying glass helps.
• Find the ‘C38 J.A.’ stamp on the spring hinge. Counterfeits often omit this or use a different font.
• Test the celluloid: a faint camphor scent when rubbed briskly indicates old celluloid; modern plastic has no smell.

Styling the C38 Clip Today

Because of its small size and neutral colour palette, the C38 clip works with a wide range of contemporary garments. For a daytime look, clip it into a low ponytail or use it to hold back a single section of hair while the rest falls loose. The amber glass catches warm tones in brown or auburn hair, while the honey celluloid blends with blonde and grey. For evening, pair it with a high twisted bun – the clip’s curved back fits snugly against the roll. The rolled gold section can be polished gently with a soft cloth, but avoid any liquid cleaner, as it may loosen the enamel.

When storing the C38 clip, it is best to keep it in a padded compartment or a soft pouch, separate from metal accessories that could scratch the celluloid. Avoid extreme temperatures, as celluloid can warp or become brittle over time. For more detailed advice on preserving similar vintage pieces, you may find the discussion of proper storage techniques in The Story of the Ric Rac Hair Clip: Vintage British Millinery helpful, as the same principles apply to celluloid and mixed-metal accessories.

Where to Find C38 Judy Andrews Clips

Genuine C38 clips appear at specialist vintage fairs in the UK, particularly those focusing on 1940s and 1950s accessories. Online auction sites occasionally list them, but the code is often misidentified. Search for ‘Judy Andrews hair clip’ rather than ‘C38’, as many sellers are unaware of the internal numbering. Expect to pay between £40 and £80 for a clip in good condition, with the original daisy enamel intact. Clips that have lost their enamel or have a cracked celluloid back are worth less, but can be restored by a specialist in vintage plastics – a rare but worthwhile skill if you are building a collection.

Always examine the spring mechanism before buying. A weak spring can be repaired by a jeweller, but it is better to buy a clip that still snaps firmly. The hinge pin is delicate; if it is missing, the clip is very difficult to fix without custom parts. For these reasons, many collectors prefer to buy from a dealer who can guarantee the condition and provenance.

Final Practical Note

If you acquire a C38 clip that has dulled celluloid, try rubbing it gently with a microfibre cloth and a tiny amount of coconut oil – this restores the original sheen without damaging the material. Do not use acetone or alcohol, as they dissolve celluloid. Once polished, wear the clip for an afternoon to let the natural oils in your hair help maintain its lustre. That single, simple action connects you to the hundreds of women who wore these clips in the post-war years, and keeps the legacy of Judy Andrews alive in a small but meaningful way.