Article: Hair jewelry, ornaments were vital accessories

Since primitive times ornaments for hair have had both practical and decorative uses. Like other items of fashion, their appearance and purpose have changed with the times.

The elaborate hair styles of the 18th and 19th centuries probably prompted creation of the beautiful combs and hairpins for both men and women. By the turn of the century, fashionable women wore long hair in the pompadour style that required special combs. During the 1970s there was a brief revival of long hair and styles using combs, hairpins and barrettes. The barrettes were clasps that held sections of hair in place.

These days, antique hair ornaments are collected rather than worn. You can pay less than $100 for ...

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