barrette

A barrette is a hair accessory consisting of a clip or clasp used to fasten hair in place. Typically a flat, rigid plate with a spring- or hinged-fastening mechanism, barrette clips grip a strand or section of hair and hold it securely. The term is commonly used in American English to denote a decorative hair clip rather than a simple hairpin or clasp.

Designs vary: spring-barrettes, two-piece hinged barrettes, and snap-barrettes. Most employ a metal or plastic outer plate that covers the internal mechanism; the hair is captured between the plate and the clip or by the spring action when closed. Some barrettes are designed to be almost invisible, while others are highly ornamental.

Materials and decoration: barrettes may be made from metal (such as nickel, brass, or steel), plastic, acrylic, wood, horn, or shell. Decorative surfaces may include enamel, rhinestones, pearls, glass cabochons, or filigree. Sizes range from small, discreet pieces to large statement barrettes.

History and usage: barrettes gained popularity in Europe and North America during the late 19th and 20th centuries as practical and decorative accessories for women's hairstyles. They are used to secure updos, half-up styles, or to hold back bangs, and remain common in contemporary fashion across many cultures.

---