Vintage Sweater Clips: 3 Reasons To Collect And Wear Them

Do you like something a little out of the ordinary in jewelry? Or maybe you would like to experiment with vintage jewelry in a new way. Vintage sweater clips are the answer. They are easy to find, easy to use, and affordable. Here are three reasons why you’ll want to add this versatile item to your fashion repertoire.

1. Vintage sweater protectors are a classic style that can be made fresh and new.

Sweater bras, also called sweater protectors, have been popular since the 1950s as a way to hold up a sweater or shrug without having to wear the sweater. They consist of two alligator clips, like those you’d find on a tie clip or a folding clip, like you’d find on a vintage dress pin. Clips can be smooth or elegant bars connected by one or more chains. They may have evolved from Castilian pins that consist of two pins connected by a chain. Since there is such a wide range of designs, you will have fun thinking of new ways to wear and update the look.

2. A cute sweater brooch is a small investment that can enhance any outfit.

This unappreciated collectible can be used to add a touch of fun or a touch of elegance to any outfit for a modest sum. They will complement a black evening jacket or a simple cotton shirt. Gold or silver metal clips can be used to echo the color of metal buttons. Fur or mink clips add a touch of luxury. Or try the faux pearl ones for a 50’s Donna Reed look. Regardless of how you wear them, they will add an extra touch to your outfit and will be a talking point that will turn heads.

3. A sweater clip is uniquely yours.

Although there are some basic repeating designs, there is also tremendous variety in this unique type of vintage jewelry. The way you assemble it makes it yours. Wear it as a sweater or as a support for a light jacket. Wear it hooked around the collar of a button-down blouse or in each corner of a pocket. Add several chains and clips or a whimsical pin. Do you have a t-shirt or top that is a little too big? Try a sweater clip in the back to adjust the fit. It can be used to lengthen a necklace that is too short. Try decorating a hat, beret, or bell with a paper clip and a pin. Attach it to a belt or waist band or even attach it to a shoe or boot.

Check flea markets, your neighborhood boutique, and online sites for prices and availability of vintage clips. Or check out Mom and Grandma’s jewelry boxes; They may have a push back because it was old-fashioned. Now you can polish it up and create your own fashion. When shopping, look for quality keys like rhinestones with pegs and manufacturer’s marks on the back of the clip. Check that the clips close securely and that the decorations are securely attached. Check that the pearls are not chipped or discolored and that the strings are clean and unstained. Enjoy your search for the perfect vintage sweater brooch and your lucky find will never go out of style.

Fun fact: Miriam Haskell’s vintage sweater clips (or protectors) are among the most collectible. They were very popular in the 1950s for their quality and designs. The gold leaf design is one of the most sought after. Haskell pieces are usually signed in the back and some sweater clips had barrettes in the back so they could be detached from the chains and used as separate pins.