A Short History of Barrettes
Barrettes first appeared in Europe during the late 19th century, when women began using decorative clips to secure their elaborate hairstyles. Over time, they became symbols of grace and femininity—often made of precious metals, tortoiseshell, or polished wood.
By the mid-20th century, barrettes were everywhere—from elegant French salons to schoolyards—thanks to the invention of the French barrette clasp, which made them both beautiful and functional. Today, they remain timeless accessories for every age and hair type.