The Rainbow Claw Clip: A 90s Hair Accessory Making a Comeback
A Rainbow Revival in the Hair
Rainbow claw clips are back. You’ve probably noticed them in vintage markets or on Instagram’s #90shair tag. The Maisonarchives p487 is a particularly good example: a generous barrette with a full spectrum of colours across its curved prongs. Unlike cheap clips that fade and snap, this one shows careful design and durable materials. The rainbow pattern isn’t printed on the surface but layered into the acetate itself, so the colours stay bright for years.
Where the Claw Clip Came From
The claw clip as we know it was invented in the early 1980s by French hairstylist Rommy Revson, who wanted a quick, damage-free way to hold up thick hair. Her original design, patented in 1985, used a springless hinge and interlocking teeth – a clever mechanism that allowed the clip to grip without pulling. By the 1990s, the claw clip had become a staple in British bedrooms, from schoolgirls’ half-up styles to sophisticated evening updos. The rainbow version emerged as a playful twist on the classic tortoiseshell or black finish, often using celluloid or acetate to create vivid, translucent colour bands.
The p487 from Maisonarchives belongs to this tradition. Its size is generous enough to hold a full twist or a voluminous bun, yet the clip remains lightweight thanks to the hollow back and carefully engineered spring. The rainbow sequence – red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet – is arranged in a clean gradient, reminiscent of the late-1990s Y2K aesthetic that has recently been revisited by designers and collectors alike.
Materials and Craftsmanship
Most vintage claw clips were made from cellulose acetate, a plant-based plastic that can be moulded and coloured in sheets. The p487 uses this material, which gives it a warm, slightly translucent appearance. When held up to the light, the colours seem to glow. Acetate is also lightweight and hypoallergenic, making it kind to hair that is prone to breakage. Unlike modern polystyrene clips, acetate does not become brittle overnight; with proper care, it can last decades.
The metal spring inside the p487 is a simple but effective design. It is not exposed, so there is no risk of rust staining your hair. The teeth are rounded at the tips to avoid snagging. These small details make the difference between a clip that you wear once and a clip that becomes a trusted companion.
How to Spot a Quality Rainbow Claw Clip
- Colour depth: Look for colours that are consistent across the clip, without muddy patches. Good acetate has a clean transition between hues.
- Weight: A well-made claw clip should feel solid but not heavy. If it is too light, the plastic may be thin and prone to cracking.
- Hinge action: Open and close the clip several times. The spring should be smooth and quiet, not jerky or squeaky.
- Tooth finish: Run your finger along the teeth – they should be smooth, not sharp or rough.
Styling the Rainbow Claw Clip for Modern Outfits
The rainbow colour palette can be surprisingly versatile. It works as a neutral accent when paired with a simple white shirt and jeans, or it can be the centrepiece of a more eclectic look. Here are three ways to wear the p487 without feeling like you are in costume.
- The half-up twist: Gather the top section of your hair and twist it lightly, then secure with the clip. This leaves the rest of your hair loose and works well with both straight and wavy textures.
- The low bun: Pull your hair into a low ponytail, twist it into a bun, and clamp the clip over the centre. The rainbow arc sits nicely against the back of the head.
- Side-swept accent: Section off a lock of hair from one side, twist it away from the face, and hold it with the clip. The colours become a playful detail that catches the light.
Because the clip is so colourful, it helps to keep the rest of your accessories minimal. A simple pair of stud earrings and a neutral top let the clip do the talking. For a vintage-inspired look, pair it with a soft cardigan or a fitted blazer – the contrast between the formal silhouette and the playful accessory is part of the charm.
Care and Longevity
Acetate is a forgiving material, but it has its preferences. Avoid exposing the clip to direct sunlight for long periods, as UV rays can fade the colours over time. Store it in a soft pouch or a drawer away from heat sources. If the clip gets dusty, wipe it with a slightly damp cloth and dry it immediately. Do not use alcohol or nail polish remover – these solvents will attack the acetate and cause cloudiness.
The spring mechanism is the part most likely to wear out. To keep it working well, avoid overstretching the clip when you open it. Use your thumb and fingers to press the back wings, not the teeth. If the spring ever feels loose, it is a sign that the clip has been used for many years – but with gentle handling, the p487 can last for decades.
Where the Rainbow Clip Fits in a Vintage Collection
The p487 is not a rare museum piece, but it is a well-executed example of a late-20th-century hair accessory. For collectors, it represents the moment when everyday hair clips became playful and expressive. It also connects to the broader revival of 1990s fashion, which has brought back chunky sneakers, slip dresses, and yes, rainbow hair accessories. If you already own a classic tortoiseshell claw clip, adding a rainbow version gives you a second option for days when you want a little more colour.
When you buy a piece like this, you are also supporting the idea of buying well – choosing an accessory that was made to last, rather than a disposable fast-fashion item. The acetate construction, the careful colour layering, and the sturdy spring all point to a time when hair clips were made to be used, not just photographed.
One final practical note: if you are new to claw clips, start with a smaller size to get used to the mechanism. The p487 is a full-size clip, so it works best on medium to thick hair. If your hair is fine or short, you might prefer a mini version of the same rainbow design. But if you have the volume to hold it, this clip will stay put through a busy day – from a morning walk to an evening dinner.