The Store p177 Ivy Hair Barrette: A Vintage Find Worth Knowing

That tiny code p177 stamped inside a vintage hair barrette isn't just factory clutter. It's a signature. The Store p177 Ivy Hair Barrette carries a delicate ivy leaf motif cast in warm tortoiseshell resin, with a single faux pearl at its centre. These clips weren't made for mass export—they were commissioned for British department stores and independent boutiques between the 1940s and 1970s. Knowing what that code means helps you spot an original, keep it in good shape, and wear it with modern clothes without drowning out its quiet character.

The Ivy Motif: A Symbol with Roots

Ivy shows up a lot in British decorative arts. In Victorian jewellery, ivy leaves stood for fidelity and eternal attachment—a meaning that carried into 20th-century hair accessories. The p177 barrette uses a stylised three-leaf ivy cluster, sculpted in high-gloss resin that mimics real tortoiseshell. Unlike the geometric or floral clips common in the 1950s, this one feels organic, almost botanical. The leaf veins are etched by hand (or at least by a skilled press-mould operator), so each barrette has slight variations in relief. Hold two p177s side by side and you'll notice the leaf tips curve differently—a sign of genuine vintage production, not modern uniformity.

Decoding the 'Store p177' Mark

The 'Store' prefix followed by a number points to a specific British wholesaler or retailer that commissioned these pieces from the 1940s through the 1970s. Based on the materials—cellulose acetate rather than earlier casein—the p177 likely dates to the late 1960s or early 1970s. The 'p' stands for 'pattern' or 'production' code, used internally to track designs across different factories. Collectors have documented similar codes on other clips (like the Sukie Yuki Red Hair Clip and the Strawberry Shortcake Duo), confirming a consistent numbering system. The p177 Ivy Barrette is one of the rarer patterns; it doesn't show up at every vintage stall, which makes it a rewarding find for anyone who knows what to look for.

Materials and Craftsmanship

The base material is high-quality cellulose acetate, chosen for its ability to hold fine detail and its warm translucency when backlit. The tortoiseshell effect comes from layering amber, brown, and black pigments during the sheet-forming process—not from painting the surface. That means the colour runs all the way through, so scratches and wear don't reveal a different colour underneath. The faux pearl is a glass bead with an iridescent coating, set into a tiny brass cup crimped onto the clip's spring mechanism. That spring is a flat, nickel-plated steel barrette clip that snaps shut with a satisfying click. It holds thick hair securely but won't snag fine strands—a hallmark of quality mid-century manufacture.

How to Wear the p177 Ivy Barrette Today

This barrette is about 5 cm long, which makes it versatile. Wear it as a side-swept accent on a low ponytail, or as a single statement piece pinned just above the ear in a half-up style. Because the ivy motif leans botanical rather than flashy, it pairs well with modern minimalist outfits—a cream linen blazer, a navy knit, or even a simple white shirt. For a more eclectic vintage look, combine it with a velvet headband or a silk scarf tied at the nape of the neck. The warm brown tones of the resin complement autumn colours like rust, olive, and mustard, but they also soften a stark black-and-white ensemble.

Bereavement and Care: Keeping the Clip Alive

Cellulose acetate is sensitive to heat and humidity. Never leave a p177 barrette in direct sunlight or near a radiator—the resin can warp or become brittle over time. Clean it with a soft, dry cloth. If the spring mechanism feels stiff, apply a tiny drop of sewing machine oil to the hinge, then open and close it a few times to work it in. Avoid soaking the clip in water; moisture can get trapped under the pearl setting and tarnish the metal cup. Store your ivy barrette in a fabric-lined box or a soft pouch, separate from metal jewellery that might scratch its surface. With these simple habits, the clip will remain a wearable piece of history for decades.

Where to Find Authentic p177 Ivy Barrettes

Because the 'Store' codes aren't widely advertised, you need to train your eye. Look for the crisp, three-leaf ivy shape and the warm, layered tortoiseshell colour. The code is usually stamped on the inside of the clip's metal spring—you may need a magnifying glass to read it. Check charity shops, flea markets, and online vintage platforms that allow detailed photos. Sellers often list these clips simply as “vintage tortoiseshell leaf barrette” without mentioning the code, so knowing the p177 pattern gives you an edge. When you find one, inspect the pearl—a chipped or missing pearl is common, but you can replace it with a similar glass bead if you have steady hands and a little epoxy.

Pairing with Other Vintage Hair Accessories

The p177 sits well alongside other botanical or nature-inspired pieces. Try teaming it with the Summer of Love Hair Accessories from 1967, which often feature daisy and flower motifs—the ivy leaf provides a grounding contrast. For a monochrome look, wear it with a simple black enamel clip from the same era. The key is to avoid overcrowding: one statement ivy barrette per hairstyle is enough to let its design breathe.

The Quiet Joy of a Numbered Vintage Clip

There is something deeply satisfying about owning an accessory that carries a hidden code. The p177 Ivy Barrette isn't flashy—it doesn't scream for attention. But when you wear it, you carry a small piece of British design history, a reminder that even the most modest hair clip can be crafted with intention. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to vintage hair accessories, this barrette offers a perfect entry point: affordable, durable, and endlessly wearable.