Not All Scarf Clips Are Created Equal

Are you familiar with scarf clips?  They're an accessory that was very popular during the 1950's and on into the 1960's, although there have always been versions around.  Basically, they were used to dress up a scarf as well as hold it in place around the shoulders, neck or waist.   A plain outfit can be dressed up beautifully with a colorful silk scarf held in place by an interesting scarf clip.

Not all scarf clips are the same, however.  The reproduction art nouveau piece above is a more modern version.  The center pulls up and the scarf is put through.  When the center is pushed down, is serves as a clip and holds the scarf and the clip itself in place.  The advantage to this particular scarf clip is that it can hold a fairly large amount of material.  This means it will take either a larger silk scarf, or even a heavier material.

 

This lovely daisy scarf clip it of a totally different design.  The scarf simply slides through the two rings.  This is perfect for a small, thin scarf.  The disadvantage of either the double or single ring scarf clip is that the clip might slip unless the material is very tightly packed.

A variation of the single or double ring clip has a regular brooch clasp to hold the scarf clip itself in place on a blouse or a dress.  With this clip you are assured your scarf will stay in place.  Of course,  you wouldn't want to put a pin on a delicate silk dress or lace blouse.

The classic and most common scarf clip looks like this.  The scarf goes through the clip mechanism, which is then folded over.  This holds both the scarf and clip in place.  This is my personal preference because I feel it's the most secure and most versatile.

Of course these are only a few variations of scarf clips.  There are other types of double ring clips, long clips, single ring clips and probably a few I've never seen.  The important thing to remember is to purchase the type that would work best with the type of scarf you plan to wear it with.

Scarf clips can truly be one of the most useful items in your accessory wardrobe.  You can still find these in jewelry or accessory departments of department or specialty stores.  However, to find the most interesting scarf clips as reasonable prices, check out the vintage jewelry stores on line.