Are Claw Clips Back In Style And How To Wear Them Without Looking Messy

In recent years, fashion has seen a nostalgic revival of 90s and early 2000s trends—from low-rise jeans to butterfly clips. Among the most surprisingly resilient comebacks is the claw clip. Once dismissed as a relic of rushed mornings and questionable hair decisions, the claw clip has undergone a stylish renaissance. Today, it's gracing red carpets, editorial shoots, and everyday wardrobes with renewed sophistication. But just because they’re back doesn’t mean they’re foolproof. Wearing a claw clip well requires more than just twisting your hair up and snapping it closed. Done poorly, it can look sloppy or outdated. Done right, it becomes an effortless statement of chic minimalism.

The key lies in understanding not only *how* to use claw clips but also *when*, *where*, and *why* they work. With the right technique, even thick, heavy, or fine hair can be styled securely and elegantly. This guide breaks down the modern appeal of claw clips, offers practical styling strategies, and reveals how to avoid the common pitfalls that make them look messy.

The Claw Clip Comeback: More Than Just Nostalgia

Fashion cycles are predictable in their unpredictability. What was once considered passé often returns with a fresh interpretation. The claw clip’s resurgence isn’t merely about nostalgia—it reflects a broader cultural shift toward functional elegance. In an era where “effortless glam” dominates beauty ideals, the claw clip embodies the perfect balance between convenience and style.

Designers like Simone Rocha, Miu Miu, and Marine Serre have featured claw clips on runways, elevating them from utilitarian tools to fashion accessories. Influencers and celebrities—think Hailey Bieber, Dua Lipa, and Bella Hadid—routinely sport oversized, tortoiseshell, or metallic claw clips as part of polished off-duty looks. These aren’t the flimsy plastic clips of the past; today’s versions are crafted from high-quality acetate, reinforced metal, or sustainable resin, designed to grip securely while adding visual interest.

According to hairstylist and trend analyst Naomi Feller, “The modern claw clip is less about hiding bad hair days and more about celebrating texture, volume, and movement. It’s a deliberate choice, not a last resort.”

“The claw clip has evolved from a hair-saving emergency tool to a curated accessory. When styled intentionally, it says you’re put together—even if you’re running late.” — Naomi Feller, Celebrity Hairstylist & Trend Consultant

Choosing the Right Claw Clip for Your Hair Type

Not all claw clips are created equal. The size, material, and spring tension vary significantly, and choosing the wrong one can lead to slippage, breakage, or an uneven silhouette. Matching your clip to your hair type ensures both comfort and aesthetic cohesion.

Hair Type	Recommended Clip Size	Best Material	Avoid
Fine or thin hair	Small to medium (1.5–2 inches)	Textured acetate or rubber-coated	Oversized metal clips (too heavy)
Medium thickness	Medium (2–2.5 inches)	Acetate or lightweight resin	Very narrow or weak-spring clips
Thick or curly hair	Large (2.5–3+ inches)	Reinforced metal core with acetate shell	Thin plastic clips (won’t hold)
Long hair (shoulder-length or below)	Extra-large (3 inches)	Dual-pronged or wide-grip design	Short or shallow clips

Pro tip: Look for clips labeled “strong hold” or “professional grade.” Drugstore varieties may crack under pressure or lose tension after a few uses. Investing in two or three quality clips in varying sizes gives you versatility for different styles and occasions.

Tip: Test a new claw clip by twisting a section of your hair into a bun and shaking your head gently. If it stays secure, it’s a keeper.

Step-by-Step: How to Wear a Claw Clip Without Looking Messy

The secret to a polished claw clip look isn’t complexity—it’s precision. Follow this timeline to achieve a sleek yet relaxed updo suitable for work, brunch, or a night out.

1. Prep your hair: Start with second-day hair or lightly textured hair. Freshly washed hair can be too slippery. Apply a texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots for grip.
2. Gather your hair: Decide on placement—high, mid, or low. For a refined look, smooth the front sections with a boar bristle brush. Leave out a few face-framing pieces if desired.
3. Twist, don’t pull: Instead of yanking hair straight back, twist it loosely upward. This creates volume and prevents a flat, helmet-like appearance.
4. Open the clip fully: Use both hands to widen the jaws of the clip completely. Partially opened clips apply uneven pressure and are more likely to slip.
5. Position and close: Place the open clip at the base of your twisted hair, then release slowly so the teeth grip evenly. Avoid snapping it shut aggressively—it can snag strands.
6. Adjust and refine: Gently tug on small sections around the clip to create softness. If any pieces are too tight, loosen them slightly for a lived-in effect.
7. Secure if needed: For extra-heavy hair, add a bobby pin horizontally beneath the clip for hidden reinforcement.

This method works especially well for creating what stylists call the “lived-in updo”—structured enough to look intentional, loose enough to feel natural.

Common Mistakes That Make Claw Clips Look Messy

Even with the right clip and technique, small errors can undermine your look. Here are the most frequent missteps and how to correct them:

• Using the wrong size: A clip that’s too small will bulge or fail to close. One that’s too large drowns your hair, creating a saggy profile.
• Skipping texture: Smooth, clean hair slides out easily. Add grit with sea salt spray or a light mousse before styling.
• Pulling hair too tightly: Over-tension flattens volume and can cause headaches. Allow some give for a softer silhouette.
• Ignoring placement: Clipping hair too high on the crown can look awkward. Aim for the occipital bone (the bump at the base of your skull) for a flattering low bun.
• Forgetting the finishing touch: A spritz of flexible-hold hairspray locks the style without making it stiff.

“Most people think the claw clip is a grab-and-go tool. But like any accessory, it needs intention. Placement, proportion, and prep matter.” — Marcus Lee, Editorial Hairstylist

Styling Ideas: From Casual to Elevated

The claw clip isn’t limited to one aesthetic. With slight adjustments, it adapts to various vibes and settings.

Tip: Rotate your claw clips seasonally—pearl or gold for summer, tortoiseshell or matte black for winter.

Casual Everyday Look: After a morning shower, towel-dry your hair and apply a curl cream if you have waves or curls. Gather hair into a low twist at the nape, secure with a medium acetate clip, and leave out a few tendrils. Pair with sunglasses and a denim jacket for instant cool-girl energy.

Office-Ready Style: On day-two hair, smooth the top section with a brush, then gather into a mid-height twist. Use a sleek black or metallic clip for a professional finish. This keeps hair off your face without looking severe.

Evening Glam: Tease the crown lightly for volume. Twist hair loosely and secure with an oversized embellished clip. Add a swipe of bold lip color to match the drama.

Half-Up, Half-Down: Take two front sections, twist them back, and join them at the crown. Secure with a small decorative clip. This frames the face while keeping hair manageable.

Mini Case Study: Emma’s Work-to-Dinner Transition

Emma, a marketing manager in Chicago, used to avoid claw clips because her thick, wavy hair always slipped out by noon. After switching to a 3-inch reinforced acetate clip and adopting the twist method, she noticed a dramatic difference. “I now wear my hair up during meetings, and when I head to dinner, I just loosen a few pieces and refresh with texturizing spray. It takes 30 seconds, and I go from corporate to cocktail-ready.” Her confidence in the style grew so much she gifted matching clips to her team for a “stylish productivity” boost.

Claw Clip Do’s and Don’ts: Quick Checklist

To help you master the look quickly, here’s a concise checklist to follow every time you reach for a claw clip.

• ✅ Do choose a clip size based on hair thickness, not length alone.
• ✅ Do prep hair with texture for better grip.
• ✅ Do twist hair before clipping for volume and security.
• ✅ Do use a dual-pronged or wide clip for long or dense hair.
• ✅ Do adjust gently after securing to soften the look.
• ❌ Don’t use damaged or cracked clips—they lose tension and can break.
• ❌ Don’t clip soaking-wet hair; it stretches and slips as it dries.
• ❌ Don’t over-tighten, which can cause breakage and discomfort.
• ❌ Don’t ignore clip maintenance—clean with rubbing alcohol monthly to remove buildup.

FAQ: Your Claw Clip Questions, Answered

Can claw clips damage your hair?

When used correctly, claw clips are among the gentlest hair accessories. They distribute pressure across a wider area than elastics, reducing tension on follicles. However, consistently pulling hair too tightly or using clips with rough edges can lead to breakage. Opt for smooth, rounded clips and avoid wearing them daily in the exact same spot.

How do I stop my claw clip from slipping?

Slippage usually stems from lack of texture or improper sizing. Try applying dry shampoo at the roots, twisting instead of pulling, and ensuring the clip is fully opened before insertion. For extra hold, position the clip vertically rather than horizontally—this aligns the teeth with the direction of hair flow.

Are claw clips suitable for formal events?

Absolutely. An oversized pearl, crystal-accented, or matte metallic claw clip can elevate a simple updo for weddings or galas. Pair with elegant earrings and a clean makeup look to let the hairstyle shine.

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Everyday Style

The claw clip’s return isn’t a fleeting trend—it’s a testament to timeless functionality meeting modern aesthetics. No longer relegated to the back of the bathroom drawer, it’s emerged as a symbol of intelligent styling: quick, adaptable, and undeniably chic. But its success hinges on mindful execution. By selecting the right clip, mastering the twist technique, and avoiding common errors, you transform a simple tool into a signature look.

Whether you’re rushing to a meeting, heading to the gym, or dressing up for a date, the claw clip can be your ally—if you treat it with intention. Experiment with placements, textures, and accessories. Find what flatters your face shape and hair type. And remember: the goal isn’t perfection, but polished ease.

💬 What’s your go-to claw clip style? Share your favorite tips, hacks, or product recommendations in the comments—let’s build a smarter, mess-free hair community together.