The Store p180 Coyote Hair Barrette: A Vintage Ivory Treasure
If you’ve ever browsed a vintage fair in the Cotswolds or sifted through a box of hair accessories at a Sussex antiques market, you may have come across a barrette marked with a small, stamped code: “Store p180”. The “coyote” pattern is a rare find, often mistaken for tortoiseshell or leopard at first glance, but its distinct blend of warm browns and creamy ivory makes it instantly recognisable to the discerning collector. Unlike the bold red of the Sukie Yuki clip, the p180 coyote barrette offers a more subdued, natural palette that speaks to the mid‑century British love for organic motifs.
Identifying the Store p180
The “Store” prefix in the code hints at a department store or wholesale batch label, common in British haberdashery from the 1950s and 1960s. The p180 is a spring‑loaded barrette, approximately 5 cm long, with a metal clasp that snaps shut. The base material is ivory‑coloured celluloid or casein plastic, overlaid with a mottled “coyote” effect – a warm, uneven blend of beige, chestnut, and dark brown that mimics the fur of the animal. Unlike true tortoiseshell, which has a more uniform amber swirl, the coyote pattern is deliberately irregular, giving each barrette a unique face.
Key distinguishing features
- Clasp mechanism: A spring‑loaded metal hinge, often with a small “U”‑shaped wire that slides into the hair. The clasp may be silver‑toned or gold‑toned, depending on the batch.
- Surface finish: High‑gloss polish on the top side, with a matte reverse. The pattern is stamped or layered, not painted, so it never chips.
- Stamp: A tiny “Store p180” engraving on the inner metal arm, sometimes accompanied by “Made in England”.
- Weight: Light yet sturdy – typical of dense casein plastic.
Materials and Craftsmanship
Post‑war Britain saw a boom in synthetic materials as rationing eased and designers sought affordable alternatives to natural tortoiseshell. Celluloid and casein were the plastics of choice, prized for their ability to be moulded, polished, and dyed in intricate patterns. The coyote effect was achieved by layering differently coloured sheets of plastic before heating and pressing them into shape. The ivory base gave a soft, luminous backdrop, while the brown streaks were added by hand or by a specialised roller technique. Each barrette was then cut, filed, and polished by a machinist – a process that is now almost entirely lost.
Style and Symbolism
In the 1950s and 1960s, British women often chose hair accessories that echoed the natural world. The coyote pattern, with its earthy tones, was both practical and fashionable – it complemented tweed jackets, twin sets, and the muted colours of the New Look. Today, the p180 speaks to a quieter, more thoughtful approach to style. It is neither flashy nor demure; it sits in the hair like a small piece of wildlife, a nod to the Galloway moors or a winter walk through the New Forest.
How to Wear the Coyote Barrette Today
Because of its neutral palette, the p180 works surprisingly well with contemporary wardrobes. Try it as a side‑swept accent on a low ponytail, or use it to hold back a fringe while wearing a crisp white shirt and denim. The ivory base will not clash with stark white or cream, and the brown streaks add depth without overwhelming a minimalist look. For those who love layered textures, pair the coyote barrette with a chunky cable‑knit sweater or a cashmere scarf – the matte finish of the plastic plays nicely against knitwear.
Outfit ideas
- City chic: A charcoal wool coat, black trousers, and a single coyote barrette at the nape of the neck.
- Weekend casual: A cream rollneck, olive cargo trousers, and the barrette holding a half‑up twist.
- Evening touch: A velvet dress in burgundy or forest green, with the barrette as a subtle contrast against the hair.
Caring for Your Vintage Barrette
Celluloid and casein plastics are sensitive to heat and moisture. Never leave the p180 near a radiator, in direct sunlight, or in a steamy bathroom – prolonged exposure can cause the plastic to warp, crack, or release a faint camphor‑like smell (a sign of decomposition). To clean, simply wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, a barely damp cotton bud with plain water works; avoid alcohol, acetone, or any solvent. Store the barrette in a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box, away from other metal accessories that might scratch the polish.
If you ever come across a p180 with a missing clasp, a skilled jeweller can replace the spring mechanism, giving it a second life. The plastic itself is remarkably durable – many of these barrettes have survived over sixty years without losing their lustre. That kind of longevity is a rare thing in fashion, and it is precisely what makes the Store p180 coyote barrette a treasure worth seeking out.