The Forgotten Feather Clips: A Blast from the 70s and 80s

Have you ever stumbled across something so unusual that you couldn’t figure out what it was for? That’s exactly how many people feel when they come across these feathered clips. At first glance, they look like quirky toys—or maybe even strange little tools. But their true purpose takes us back to a vibrant era of fashion, music, and free-spirited style.

A Retro Mystery: What Are These Feathered Clips?

The objects in the photo are known as feather hair clips—often nicknamed roach clips in pop culture. They were one of the trendiest hair accessories of the 1970s and 1980s, commonly worn at music festivals, dances, and anywhere the bohemian or hippie spirit thrived.

Each piece was made with a small metal clip attached to a leather or fabric strap. On the other end, you’d find colorful feathers, beads, or even tiny bells. People clipped them into their hair—especially on bangs or near the temples—for a dramatic, free-flowing look that instantly stood out.

The Bohemian Touch: More Than Just an Accessory

Fashion during the hippie and rock ‘n’ roll years wasn’t about polish or perfection—it was about expression. Feather hair clips embodied that spirit. They swung with the music at outdoor concerts, shimmered in the lights of disco clubs, and added flair to everyday outfits.

Video : How to make a feather hair or roach clip

Some wore them as subtle accents, while others layered multiple clips for a bold, artistic vibe. And it didn’t stop with hair—people also clipped them onto handbags, belts, and even clothing. They were versatile little symbols of rebellion and creativity.

The Festival Favorite: Where They Shined Brightest

Imagine stepping into Woodstock-inspired festivals or iconic 80s dance scenes. These feather clips were everywhere. They added a touch of movement and color, perfectly suited to an era defined by freedom and self-expression.

Much like today’s flower crowns at Coachella, feather hair clips were once the must-have festival accessory. They fit right in with tie-dye shirts, bell-bottom jeans, and the carefree energy of a generation looking to break away from conformity.

Cultural Connections: Hippies, Rockers, and Free Spirits

Feather hair clips weren’t just about fashion—they were part of a larger cultural identity. For hippies, they symbolized a closeness to nature and tribal aesthetics. For rock ‘n’ roll fans, they added edge and drama. For dancers, they simply looked stunning under disco lights.

In a sense, these little accessories were wearable art. They connected people to movements, music, and moments that defined an era.

Why We Still Remember Them Today

So why do these quirky clips still spark nostalgia? Because they remind us of a time when fashion was fearless. Unlike fast trends of today, feather hair clips carried stories—stories of youth, freedom, and nights filled with music.

Even though they’ve faded from mainstream fashion, you’ll still see modern versions at festivals and vintage shops. The boho-chic revival has given them new life, proving that some styles never truly disappear—they just wait for the right moment to flutter back into the spotlight.

Video : Attaching Hair Feathers onto Clips with Wild4Feathers

Conclusion: More Than Just Feathers and Clips

At first glance, feather hair clips may seem like odd little relics. But look closer, and they tell a bigger story—a story of individuality, expression, and the colorful spirit of the 70s and 80s. They weren’t just accessories; they were tiny symbols of freedom that decorated not just hair, but an entire cultural movement.

Next time you see one, don’t just dismiss it as a strange object from the past. Think of the music, the festivals, the laughter, and the people who wore them proudly. That’s what makes them unforgettable.