Few accessories have made as much of a styling comeback as the claw clip. Once considered purely functional, it’s now one of the fastest ways to create a polished, on-trend look in literally seconds — no braiding, twisting, or advanced technique required. Below are 15 claw clip hairstyles to try, ranging from quick, everyday options to slightly more elevated looks.
Why Claw Clips Are So Popular
- They’re fast. Most claw clip styles take under thirty seconds, making them one of the quickest ways to look put-together.
- They work on almost any hair length. From shoulder-length to very long hair, claw clips adapt to different amounts of hair with ease.
- They’re low-commitment. Unlike a braid or bun, a claw clip style can be quickly redone or adjusted throughout the day.
15 Claw Clip Hairstyles to Try
1. Classic Half-Up Claw Clip
The simplest option: gather the top section of hair and secure it with a claw clip, leaving the rest down.
2. Twisted Half-Up Claw Clip
Twist the top section before clipping it for a slightly more polished, detailed version of the classic half-up style.
3. Low Bun with a Claw Clip
Rather than twisting and pinning, simply gather all your hair low and secure it with a claw clip for one of the fastest bun alternatives available.
4. High Bun with a Claw Clip
The same technique, positioned higher on the head, offers a slightly more casual, athletic take on the style.
5. Half-Twisted Front Sections
Twist two small sections from the front hairline back and secure them together with a small claw clip, leaving the rest of your hair down.
6. Braided Half-Up with a Claw Clip
Braid the top section before securing it with a clip for added texture and detail without much extra time.
7. Claw Clip Ponytail
Rather than an elastic, gather your ponytail and secure it with a claw clip for a slightly different silhouette and an easy elastic-free option.
8. Side-Swept Claw Clip
Sweep all your hair to one side before securing it with a claw clip near your ear for an asymmetrical, romantic look.
9. Claw Clip with Curled Ends
Curl the length of your hair first, then secure the top section with a claw clip for a slightly more elevated, “done” look.
10. Double Claw Clips
Use two smaller claw clips instead of one larger clip, positioned symmetrically, for a slightly more detailed variation on the half-up style.
11. Claw Clip Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
Leave a couple of soft pieces out around your face before securing the rest into a claw clip bun for a softer, less severe finish.
12. Slicked-Back Claw Clip
Smooth hair back completely with a bit of gel before securing it with a claw clip for a sleek, polished, minimalist look.
13. Claw Clip with a Deep Side Part
Switching to a deep side part before clipping hair back adds a bit of drama and asymmetry to an otherwise simple style.
14. Half-Up Claw Clip with Waves
Add loose waves to your length before securing the top section for a romantic, slightly more special-occasion-ready look.
15. Claw Clip Space Buns
Use two smaller claw clips to create a space-bun-inspired look without any twisting or wrapping required.
Tips for Using a Claw Clip
- Choose the right size for your hair thickness. Larger claw clips generally hold thicker hair more securely, while smaller clips work well for finer hair or smaller sections.
- Twist hair before clipping for extra hold. A simple twist before securing the clip helps the style stay in place longer than just gathering hair straight.
- Position the clip vertically for the most secure hold. Clipping hair with the clip positioned vertically (rather than horizontally) tends to create a more secure, longer-lasting hold.
- Add texture beforehand. A bit of texturizing spray or dry shampoo helps the clip grip hair more effectively, especially on freshly washed, slippery hair.
Final Thoughts
The claw clip’s popularity comes down to just how much styling payoff it offers for so little effort — a single accessory can take hair from unstyled to polished in seconds. Whether you’re after a quick, everyday half-up look or something slightly more elevated for an evening out, these claw clip hairstyles offer plenty of ways to make the most of this simple, versatile trend.
Looking for more trending hairstyle guides? Check out our guides on Butterfly Haircut: The Full Guide and Curtain Bangs 101 for more current trends.
