- Claw clips are the perfect tool for a quick and easy hairstyle.
- Plus, they’re a pretty accessory.
Everyone’s go-to hair accessory also happens to be one of the most beloved ’90s trends to come back in recent years. That’s right, we’re talking about the iconic claw clip. There’s a reason this accessory is a model-off-duty favorite—just ask Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Bella Hadid, who are all fans—it’s versatility is unmatched. You can find it in countless styles (seriously, there is a color and size for everyone), and claw clips offer a variety of ways to wear your hair up.
Plus, they’re healthier for your hair than other accessories. Take elastic scrunchies as an example. Researchers at Princeton have found that traditional hair ties cause dents and friction to the hair, which can cause breakage. While silk scrunchies, though pricier, are more gentle on hair. But claw clips are an affordable hair accessory to keep your hair in place without denting. Bonus: Claw clip hairstyles couldn’t be easier to recreate at home.
To get the look, celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons, says you’ll want to start by brushing your hair to remove any unwanted tangles. Then, you’ll get ready to put it up, which is exactly like putting your hair back into a medium-to-low pony, Fitzsimons says. Next, twist your hair with your fingers, and then pull the length of your hair up so it starts to form a vertical bun. Finally, secure the clip. After that, feel free to make any adjustments you want to achieve your desired style. Below, Fitzsimons—along with fellow celeb hairstylists Ona Diaz-Santin and MariLynne Cosmillo—share their favorite claw clip hairstyles and how to DIY them.
Read on for everything you need to know about styling your hair with a claw clip.
Twist and Clip
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
Diaz-Santin says the twist and clip is the easiest claw clip hairstyle you can do. Just as the name suggests, the hairstylist says all you have to do is twist a section of your hair and secure it. Leave the ends feathered out, as seen here on Swiss influencer Alessa Winter, for a more casual hairstyle.
Messy Bun
Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images
Diaz-Santin also recommends going the messy bun route à la Hailey Bieber. She says to twist your hair into a bun and secure it with a claw clip, allowing some loose strands to remain for a relaxed look. Make sure your strands are facing down if you want this exact hairstyle.
Claw Clip Updo
Here, a claw clip serves as a sturdy base for an elevated updo. “I started by lightly spritzing my hair with water and applying a small amount of curling custard from Organic Beauty Essence. To give the claw clip a good grip (since I have a lot of hair), I sectioned and secured the sides and back with small bands, then did the same for the middle section,” says Wambui Kariuki, a creator who specializes in natural hairstyles. “The brown claw clip added the perfect earthy touch and held everything in place. I finished the look with a few front twists and added brown wooden beads to match.”
Reverse Ponytail
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
“I love a reverse claw clip style on long hair,” says Cosmillo. To DIY this hairstyle, first pull your hair into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Then, wrap the lengths around the elastic and pull it downwards before securing the claw clip underneath the base. It’s an elevated yet edgy take on the classic accessory.
Half-Updo
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
You can also secure your half-up, half-down look with a claw clip. Simply take two sections, one from each side of your head, gather them, and secure them at the back with a clip. Diaz-Santin likes to give each section a twist for a unique spin on the look.
The claw clip works with almost all hair lengths and textures, says Fitzsimons. However, people with longer or thicker hair should opt for a larger, more durable clip. You can also use a regular clip to create half-up, half-down hairstyles, Fitzsimons adds.
Half Slicked-Back, Half Natural
@thejessxu/Instagram
Fitzsimons recommends a half-slicked-back, half-natural look for those with thicker or textured hair. “This style is where you slick back the hair with a serum or a hair cream for a smooth look, and then twist the rest of the hair back into a clip as normal,” he says. If your hair is long, let it cascade over the clip for a lifted updo, as seen here.
Inverted Ponytail
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
For an effortless updo, add a claw clip for a little extra oomph. To get the look, Diaz-Santin says to gather your hair into a ponytail (you can position it however you want) and add a claw clip to keep it in place. This style shines even more when you opt for a metallic clip.
With Bangs
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Having bangs doesn’t exempt you from trying claw clip hairstyles. As actress Heart Evangelista shows, your bangs can be the perfect complement to a chic updo. Just make sure to grab a clip big enough to secure all your hair so that you don’t have stray pieces flying around.
Bun at the Base
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Claw clips can also help secure a low bun, which is perfect for who want an easier style. To achieve it, simply put your hair in a bun at the base of your neck and use your claw clip to secure it at the top. If you want, pull out some strands for extra interest.
Face-Framing Tendrils
@emijayinc/Instagram
Fitzsimons is also a fan of a loose upward twist. If you have layers, he says to leave a few out to frame your face for a softer vibe. It’ll give off-duty supermodel in the best way.
