Bobby socks and Bobby pins

[Firiffic]

Who was Bobby and why were socks and hair clips named after him?

[Quizmonster]

It is not related to a person's name as such. The etymology is uncertain, but the best idea of it is that it is connected with the word 'bob' in the sense of 'cut short', as in 'bobbed' hair. Thus, bobby-socks are short socks. The pin may be similarly explained perhaps.

[Firiffic]

I did wonder if they were American terms too.  Generally someone with a bobbed haircut wouldn't particularly require hair grips. 

[Quizmonster]

Both words are originally American, F, first appearing there in the 1930s/40s.

[Firiffic]

Thank you all knowing Quizmonster.  You're amazing!  How do you know so much?

[Quizmonster]

How? Basically by living for a long time - reading voraciously throughout - and having excellent reference-works to hand, F! Thank you for your kind comment, however.

[Firiffic]

Your very welcome.  I am working on being just like you!  I already know quite a lot (good at quizzes etc, lots of useless information) but I never get enough of knowing more.  Have a lovely day, Quizmonster.