30 Best Claw Clip Styles For Different Hair Lengths And Textures

Redefine statement hairstyle with the coolest accessory of the ‘90s.

Reviewed by Lorrie Pearson, Professional Makeup Artist Lorrie Pearson Lorrie PearsonProfessional Makeup Artist facebook_icontwitter_iconlinkedin_iconinsta_icon
Written by Aparna Harry, MA (English Literature) Aparna Harry MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Edited by Eshna Das, BA, MSc Eshna Das BA, MSc linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by Manjari Uppal, MSc Manjari Uppal MSc linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
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Best claw clip hairstyles for different hair lengths and textures

Image: StyleCraze Design Team

The ‘90s claw clip hairstyle has made a comeback, bringing the convenience of quick, versatile, and efficient hairstyling. This simple accessory comes in various shapes and sizes and can be your go-to hair embellishment for casual to semi-formal occasions. With this one tool in your arsenal, you can brave the worst hair days with oomph and style. The best part is you can get super creative with claw clips to achieve several cool and classy hairdos.

So what are you waiting for? Without further ado, let us dive into this article to browse through some super practical, fashionable, and easy claw clip hairstyles.

How To Do Claw Clip Hairstyles – Step By Step Guide

There are multiple innovative ways to use claw clips for your day-to-day hairdos. However, the most popular way to use them is to do a neat French twist with medium-length hair. Follow the instructions below to try it out:

  1. Gather all your hair at your nape. If you are a beginner at styling your own hair, you may need a hair tie to secure your hair into a ponytail.
  2. Twist the gathered hair around itself a few times and fold it upwards, forming a loop above your nape.
  3. Use a medium-sized claw clip to secure the folded hair and the hair at the back of your head together.
  4. Adjust the position of the clip and pull a few strands loose in the front for a nostalgic 90s vibe.

This basic style is so convenient that you cannot help falling in love with it.

Priya, a beauty and lifestyle blogger, discusses the versatility of claw clips when talking about one of her most common hairdos in a styling blog post. She writes, “Oh- and the story behind this “up-do”? I use those big claw clips in my hair daily, (mostly while I’m brushing my teeth/doing my make-up), and some days, they stay in my hair for work! This ended up looking like a chignon in the front, just don’t look at the back ;) I was pretty pleased with it and it was SO nice having my hair out of my face for work (i).”

Now that we know how to do a basic claw clip hairstyle, let us take a look at the different ways in which they can be styled in the section below.

Key Takeaways

  • Claw clips were fashionable in the 90s but early 2020s have witnessed their comeback due to their convenience and versatility.
  • Depending on your hair texture and length, a claw clip can help you execute casual as well as formal hairstyles.
  • Experimenting with other complementary hair accessories when doing a claw clip style can give you more creative results.

30 Best Claw Clip Hairstyles To Try

You can pick claw clips in different designs and sizes or even combine a few different types for a unique hairdo that resonates with you. The more creativity you apply, the better. Take inspiration from our stunning collection of cool and fancy claw clip hairstyles below.

Claw Clip Hairstyles For Thick Hair

The best thing about claw clips is their versatility and range of sizes. Granted, a large claw clip can secure thick locs quite easily, but we have a few creative ways to wear medium-sized claw clips to execute delightful hairstyles on thick hair. Whether you are going for an everyday style or aiming for a red carpet hair style, claw clips offer endless possibilities to elevate your hair game. Keep reading to know more.

1. Half-Back Claw Clip Hairstyle

A half-back hairstyle involves pulling back the front sections of your hair and clipping them with a smaller claw clip. Let the rest of your hair at the back fall loose. This style suits all hair textures and you can use a bigger clip for thick hair. If you have a wide-shape face, you can do a side-sweep in the front or leave some strands loose to frame your face in flattering angles.

2. Half-Back Twisted Claw Clip Hairstyle

This lovely variation of the half-back clipped hairstyle is perfect for casual events like music festivals. All you have to do is loosely twist two sections of hair around each other on either side of the head, pull them back, and secure them together with a small to medium-sized claw clip. You can also add multiple twists, covering the crown of your head, with a clip at the back to create a Targaryen-style small claw clip hairstyle.

3. Half Back With Side Braids

Turn up your glam quotient with this festive claw clip hairstyle for thick hair. It is a simple half-back hairstyle that also includes two slim side braids that wrap around the side of the head for a crown-like effect. If you do not have bow-shaped clips, you can simply attach some made of satin ribbons to your clip.

4. Half-Back Twist And Braid With Claw Clip

One must have long-length, thick hair to replicate this hairstyle. Take twisted sections from either side of the head, knot them at the back of the head, and then continue twisting downward. Once you are done with twisting, secure it with a claw clip. Use a butterfly or a flower claw clip for an exceptionally cute hairstyle.

Claw Clip Hairstyles For Thin Hair

If you think claw clips cannot grip onto or suit thin, fine hair, then think again! First all, you can always get a claw clip that is the perfect size for your hair thickness. Second of all, some clever styling can do wonders. Here’s how.

5. Spiky Bun Claw Clip Hairstyle

Uneven awkward lengths of hair may end up with spiky ends when you try to twist them into a bun. Additionally, if you have a thin volume of hair, your hairdos could end up looking rat-tailish. But fret not! The spikes can become a hairstyle by themselves, especially for thin hair. The hair can be loosely gathered for some volume at the top, then knotted at the nape, and secured with a small claw clip with the ends sticking out like spikes.

6. Relaxed Half-Do With Fuzzy Claw Clips

This casual campus-style claw clip hairstyle is reminiscent of fall or winter days, especially because of the fuzzy claw clip. It is a basic loose half-do with the hair pulled back. You cannot tell the pulled back and the loose hair apart, giving it a young, refreshing, and voluminous appearance. For a more texturous and fluffy look, use a dry texture spray before styling.

Claw Clip Hairstyles For Medium Hair

Medium is the most comfortable length to try all sorts of experimental hairstyles! This is also true of claw clip hairstyles that can be your quick styling fixes. For everyday styling needs, you can also find inspiration from hairstyles for medium hair. Check out the following hairdos that will effortlessly become your go-to styles.

7. Messy Updo

Although claw clips can help you put together some fashionable hairdos, one cannot overlook how efficient it is to just clip back unruly hair that refuses to behave on certain days. However, as messy hairdos are a thing, you can achieve this super casual look by roughly pulling your hair back with your fingers and clipping it up. Then, use a setting spray to lock the planned messy claw clip hairstyle.

8. Cascading Sleek Tresses

With medium or longer-length haircuts, a simple French twist would result in the tips spilling over the edges of the claw clip. If you have sleek hair, it will appear like a gentle, softly flowing waterfall. Also, make sure your hair is detangled and combed to have this soft, cascading effect.

protip_icon Quick Tip
If you have really smooth hair that even your claw clip cannot hold onto, use a bit of texturizing spray across mid-length to provide a hold. Avoid spraying the tips to ensure the sleek and flowy ends.

9. Low Bun With Claw Clip

Low buns have got to be the most elegant claw clip hairstyles ever. Medium to long-length hair can easily be gathered into a low bun for formal settings, such as the workplace. For a semi-formal or formal party, you could go for a metallic claw clip for an embellished look. Ensure that the colors of the clip are not jarring for formal events.

10. Loose French Braid With Claw Clip

This loose French braid is inspiring. It is probably a life-hack as well as it shows that a claw clip can essentially replace your hair ties and scrunchies. The French braid has been done in the usual manner. The only difference is that it has been secured with a claw clip instead of a hair tie. Likewise, a claw clip may also be used for your regular ponytail styles without much trouble.

Claw Clip Hairstyles For Long Hair

Claw clips perhaps seem to be the most commonly used for long hair. They allow you to create beautiful, fun, versatile hairstyles on any hair length or texture. But how long can your style stay relevant with the same old French twist? Don’t freak out! Try our creative claw clip hairstyles for long hair that will have your friends fawning over you. If you are attending a special occasion, you might want to explore wedding guest hairstyles incorporating a claw clip for an effortlessly chic look.

11. Twist-Up Bun With Claw Clip

Good creative claw clip hairstyles for long hair can be achieved with just an extra bit of experimentation. This twist-up bun goes a few steps beyond the French twist. Simply continue twisting the cascading hair and fold it to form a bun atop the clip. Then, slightly open the clip to secure the ends of the top bun within it. It sounds complicated but practicing it a few times will make it look like a walk in the park.

12. Modified French Twist

A basic claw clip hairstyle for medium hair or longer, with all the hair strands neatly tucked in, can be achieved with this modified French Twist. The modification involves twisting the cascading ends and securing them in place with the claw clip. This hairstyle will require a bigger size claw clip to fit the extra fold comfortably.

13. High Ponytail Claw Clip Hairstyle

This claw clip hairstyle ponytail is a great fit for a regular day at work, Sunday brunch with the ladies, or a basic grocery store run as well. It is technically a cascading claw clip hairstyle but with long enough hair that the cascade looks like a ponytail. A layered haircut will have a stunning, wispy look, elevating the charm of the hairstyle.

14. Midsection French Braid With Clipped Low Bun

This professional claw clip hairstyle may be the most complex hairstyle on our list. The hair is divided into three sections and the middle one is done into a French braid. As the braid reaches the nape, the other two sections are neatly gathered to continue the braid. In the end, the braid is gathered into a neat bun with a metallic claw clip securing it. You will need a lot of styling gel in the beginning and setting spray at the end to achieve this neat and slick look.

15. Tailed Knot

As the name of the style suggests, this casual clipped bun features a loose knot at the base of the head, leaving its tail-end free. Left just like that, it would be a low ponytail. However, the knot is pinned up with tiny claw clips on either side of it and the tail emerges from its center, making for a unique, accessorized hairstyle.

Claw Clip Hairstyles For Short Hair

The next time someone tells you that short hair is hard to style, you are going to take them up on their challenge! As long as your hair length is just shy of your shoulders, you can try the following styles for cutesy outfit looks.

16. Half Top Knot With Short Hair

Easily execute a flawless claw clip hairstyle for short hair with this half-top-knot. The hair from the crown is twisted into a knot at the back of the head and then secured with an appropriately sized claw clip. The glossy reddish-brown hair clip also contrasts beautifully against the ash-brown hair color.

17. Flower Claw Clip Hairstyle

A cool way to add a refreshing twist to your short hair is to use claw clips of different colors, prints, shapes, or sizes. These flower-shaped claw clips are quite popular all over social media these days and impart a cheerful vibe to the usually classy hairdo; they easily jazz up your short hair with it. It is reminiscent of a tropical Hawaiian beach where everyone is sporting a vibrant flower in their hair. Look for this clip in various bright colors to experiment with this cute claw clip hairstyle.

Curly Hair Claw Clip Hairstyles

All our naturally curly ladies can use a fashionable pick-me-up with claw clips too! Whether you are in between protective styles, or rocking a brand new one, use these handy clips for a quick, comfy updo, or a spiced-up braided look!

18. Cascading Coils

This is a curly hair claw clip hairstyle similar to the cascading sleek tresses hairdo. As you can see, just because of the difference in hair texture, the same hairstyle looks completely different. The curls have a more voluminous and loud presence. Pulling a few tendrils out in the front will add more dimension to the overall look.

19. Claw Clip Hairstyle With Braids

Ladies with protective braids need not feel left out as these accessories are versatile enough to pull off claw clip hairstyles for natural hair, even braided ones. This half-up Fresh twist has such a multilayered look, thanks to the neat golden-brown protective braids. Some of the slim braids wrap over half the head, while some flow down the shoulders, creating a sense of intrigue.

20. Clipped Up Locs

Here is another claw clip hairstyle for black girls with protective styles. The locs from the front are pulled back for a halfdo. Although locs are great for natural curls, they can become uncomfortable in hot and humid climates. Therefore, a claw clip is a quick fix for protective styles that also look uber cool.

21. Clipped Up Fro With Beaded Braids

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Wild, unmanageable Fros can also be tamed with reliable claw clips. The hair is neatly and tightly combed back into a French twist. However, the excess hair simply bushes out, as is characteristic of Afro hair. Additionally, this style also features a few beaded twists in the front to further make this style stand out.

protip_icon Quick Tip
You can pair your claw clips with other accessories such as ribbons, slide hair pins, and hair bands for unique looks.

Half Up Claw Clip Hairstyles

Half-up half-down is one of the best Gen Z hair trends that is popular across ages! The angles, length, and youthfulness that it adds to one’s face are remarkable. Try out these hairstyles with the help of claw clips and you will enjoy these styles even more.

22. Half-Up Twist Around Claw Clip

This half-up hairstyle is made using pulled-back strands from the front that are secured very loosely with the claw clip. Then, it is twisted around itself to give a sweeping effect to the pulled-back hair. This makes for a casual hairdo, but a neatly combed version would be suitable for formal occasions as well.

23. Half-Up Half-Down Loose Twisted Bun

This casual half-up claw clip hairstyle has a simple yet attention-grabbing look. The half knot is a very loosely twisted bun with free-flowing ends that merge with the hair at the back. However, one can easily turn this into a semi-formal hairdo by tightening the bun and using some pancaking techniques to give it a floral shape.

Small Claw Clip Hairstyles (Mini Claw Clip Hairstyles)

It is a misconception that the mini claw clips are for kids! Here’s to proving it wrong! The tiny little claws in varying shapes can be surreal accessories that endow your entire personality with youthful energy. Check out the following styles to see how you can make them work for you.

24. Mini Claw Clip Hairstyle

These mini butterfly clips would be great for cutesy, lovely, claw clip hairstyles suitable for little girls and young ladies alike. You can weave your hair in a few braids, as shown in the image, or go for a whole head of braids secured with these little gems. Get them in multiple colors and just clip them onto your slim braids or pair them with your protective braids.

25. Cinnamon Bun With Butterfly Claw Clips

This aesthetic claw clip hairstyle uses two little butterfly claw clips for two different purposes. One secures the cinnamon bun slightly above the nape while the other is used as an embellishment. This lovely hairdo is suitable for weddings or other semi-formal gatherings. Though it can be easily achieved with long hair, if you want to make it work with medium or shorter hair, you need to secure the cinnamon bun with pins while the claw clips simply accessorize your hair.

Large Claw Clip Hairstyles

If you have long, thick hair, you probably struggle with styling quite frequently. And let’s not even think about how it feels when your hairdo falls apart by accident while you run around. Got to be a nightmare! But large claw clips can always come to your rescue. Not only are they useful, but come in such desirable designs that you cannot get enough of them! See how they can glam up your look.

26. Retro Easy Updo Claw Clip Hairstyle

Achieving a neat and posh-looking updo with claw clips is no trouble. If you have silky, straight hair, you need not even run your fingers through your hair before wrapping them up.You can pick neon or other brightly colored jumbo claw clips and pair them with tinted sunglasses, hoop earrings, and tank tops to create a whole retro aesthetic claw clip hairstyle look. Combining claw clips with flapper hairstyles can give you a unique, retro vibe.

27. ZigZag Claw Clip For Thick And Long Hair

Why not try this big, zigzag, chunky clip? It will look exceptional, especially if you are looking for a claw clip hairstyle for thick hair. This not only helps style your voluminous hair but shifts one’s attention to the unique claw clip adorning your tresses. Choose from a variety of pop-out colors and clip designs for the appropriate occasion.

Double Claw Clip Hairstyles

Sure you get claw clips in almost every size! However, some hairstyles require two medium claw clips rather than one large one. And no, they are not going to look odd. We have just the right ideas to make your claw clips look adorable!

28. Space Buns With Claw Clips

Space buns are one of the most trendy Gen Z hairstyles and can easily be achieved with claw clips. This simple double claw clip hairstyle fits right in with the trends for the younger generation without looking awkward or unsightly. Just keep the outfit styles and colors in mind when assembling your overall ensemble.

29. Messy High Space Buns With Flower Claw Clips

The messy version of the claw clip space buns shows just how flexible these clips are. The messy texture is paired with the space buns and secured with flower-shaped claw clips. This can be a great volumizing claw clip hairstyle for thin hair, making the hair look bigger and thicker.

30. Double Claw Clip Half Do

This cutesy hairstyle can be a great party hairdo for young girls and women. The claw clips shown are ornamental, which gives them an edge over other practical hair accessories. All you have to do to execute this style is to make two half-back twists placed one above the other. You may position the clips creatively to add more charm to the overall style.

Now that we have shared the top claw clip hairstyles with you, let’s check out some styling tips in the next section that will ensure your hairdo stays stunning for a long time.

Styling Tips For Claw Clip Hairstyles

A few hair hacks and products can offer many benefits, especially when you are trying a simple hairstyle like a claw clip. So scroll down for top styling tips that are easy to follow and guarantee desired results!

  • Choose The Right Clip: Select a clip that matches your hair thickness and length. Larger clips work well for thicker and longer tresses, while smaller clips suit finer textures.
  • Add Texture: Use texturizing spray to make your hair wavy or curly. It can help hold the hair better in the clip and add more body and bounce to your mane.
  • Section Strategically: For a balanced look, section your hair before clipping. You can gather hair from the top for a half-up style or twist sections for a more intricate look.
  • Use Volume-Enhancing Products: Spritz some texturizing spray or apply a volumizing mousse to add dimension to the hair, especially if you have fine strands.
  • Experiment With Placement: Try different placements, such as high on the hair for an elegant updo or lower for a relaxed, playful look.

So, there you have it! Besides being your trusted, flexible, and efficient hair accessories, claw clips can also help you achieve a wide range of hairstyles. They are versatile hair clips that can be dressed up or dressed down, allowing you the freedom to enjoy experimental but easy hairstyles no matter the social setting. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes on the market, and it is only clever to get one of each for a lazy day when you want to look your best with minimal effort. Get your hands on a couple of them and try out these fun hairstyles right away. We are sure you will not be disappointed!

Infographic: 6 Best Claw Clip Hairstyles For All Hair Lengths And Types

Claw clips hairstyles look incredibly chic and can add a sense of effortlessness to any outfit. These ‘90s hair accessories come in varied colors, sizes, and patterns. They are easy to style and can make you look put together in no time. The best part is they are super-versatile and can work on all hair lengths and textures. The infographic below lists the top 6 ways to wear claw clips, suitable for all hair lengths. Check it out!

6 best claw clip hairstyles for all hair lengths and types (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sleep with a claw clip in my hair?

It is not recommended to sleep with claw clips in your hair no matter how comfortable and lightweight they feel. At the end of the day, they are accessories with sharp teeth that can snag at your hair or hurt your scalp at night. Instead, detangle your hair and tie it up in a braid using hair ties.

How do I choose the right size of a claw clip?

The appropriate size of your hair is determined by your hair thickness. Use smaller sizes for fine hair and bigger sizes for thicker hair. Additionally, you may want some tiny size clips for accessorizing, regardless of your hair thickness.

Can I use a claw clip on wet hair?

It is not ideal to tie up your wet hair in any way. However, if you have to secure your wet hair, then claw clips are a better alternative to hair ties as they apply minimal strain on your hair and scalp.

Can claw clips hold thick or heavy hair?

Yes, big and sturdy claw clips can hold up thick and heavy hair.

Illustration: Best Claw Clip Styles For Different Hair Lengths And Textures

30 Best Claw Clip Styles For Different Hair Lengths And Textures

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

Claw clips are a lifesaver when you need to get your hair out of the way on the go. The following video demonstrates 10 trending 60-second claw clip hairstyles that are fun and stylish. Check it out.

Personal Experience: Source

StyleCraze's articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.

(i) Chartreuse
https://www.priyatheblog.com/2016/01/chartreuse.html
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Lorrie Pearson
Lorrie PearsonProfessional Makeup Artist
Lorrie Pearson is a professional makeup artist who has been creating her signature natural makeup looks for 20+ years. She began her career working behind the cosmetics counter that helped her strengthen her skills in application.

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Aparna Harry
Aparna HarryBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Aparna Harry is a beauty and lifestyle content writer with over three years of experience in writing for different genres. She has a master’s degree in English Literature from The English And Foreign Languages University and a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Mysore.

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Eshna Das
Eshna DasAssociate Editor
Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

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Manjari Uppal
Manjari Uppal Beauty & Lifestyle Writer
Manjari is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over three years of experience in writing across different niches, including beauty, health, wellness, and technology. She first discovered her passion for writing in school and has since honed her craft to perfection.

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