6 Claw Clip Hairstyles You Need This Summer (2024 UPDATE)
If there’s one essential hair product you need this summer, it’s the claw clip. We’re not surprised this 90’s hair trend has seen a revival in 2024, it’s affordable, so easy to use, ridiculously versatile and can create some effortlessly chic styles.
The claw clip is no longer that thing you use to section your hair while you're styling it (although it is still really handy for that), they’re everyone's go-to hair accessory this summer. And with this year looking like a hot one, easy up-dos that keep your hair off your neck are going to be a must.
The claw clip has come back bolder and better than ever too. With loads of patterns, colours and sizes to choose from it can be used to throw your hair up in the morning for that effortless messy bun look or create something more styled with a half up or sleek chignon twist.
The other great thing about claw clip hairstyles is that they don’t put so much pressure on your hair at the root like elastic bands, so there’s less risk of an achy head at the end of the day.
They’re more gentle on your hair too, especially thinner hair, so you’ll have fewer breakages when you put it up and take it down, even when your hair’s wet. And there’ll be no dreaded creases in your hair when you take your claw clip out either.
If you’re thinking of adding a claw clip to your summer look, there are literally a hundred different claw clip hairstyles to choose from. So, at our hair salon in Tetbury, we’ve picked some of our favourites for both long, medium and short hair you might want to try out.
Half up
This classic style is made even easier and more versatile with the addition of a claw clip. You can leave your bangs down, tie everything back or go somewhere in between.
Adding some curls to your hair before sweeping the top section back is an effortlessly elegant look that's easy and quick to achieve. Here's how to make it work for you:
Variations - Go for a braided or twisted half-up for a textured look, or try a half-up bun for added elegance. For a fun twist, use two clips in a double half-up style.
Great for all hair types - use larger clips for thick hair, add volume to fine hair with teasing, and let curly hair flaunt its natural texture.
Styling tips - For a secure hold, twist your hair before clipping. Position the clip higher for a lifted look or lower for casual vibes. Personalise with accessories like ribbons or additional hair clips.
Occasions - This versatile style transitions smoothly from casual daytime outfits to more formal evening wear. It’s as suitable for a day out with friends as it is for a special event.
Quick to style and easy to wear, the half-up claw clip hairstyle is a summer essential, blending comfort with style.
Modern French twist
The french twist is one of the most popular claw clip hairstyles because it’s so easy to achieve and you can tweak to look polished and elegant or looser and more casual. The choice is yours.
Variations - Classic upward twist, relaxed low bun twist, playful side twist, or a textured braided twist - each style adds its own unique flair.
Hair types - Ideal for long, medium, or shorter hair. Long and medium lengths shine in classic styles, while shorter hair benefits from side twists or braids. This style can work with any hair texture, but finer hair might need texture sprays or teasing for better hold.
Styling - Adjust the twist's tightness carefully and get the right clip size for a secure fit. Heavier hair? Try bobby pins!
Occasions - The French twist transitions seamlessly from formal to casual settings. Pick a sleek finish for formal events and a looser, more relaxed style for everyday elegance.
Keep in mind you might need a larger claw clip for this one to catch all of your hair.
Matchy Match
If you want to make your claw clip style stand out, go for a more interesting shaped clip, like a Bubble Claw and match it up with your outfit. This Jade claw clip works so well against blond hair and matching vest.
Coordinate with confidence - Match your claw clip to a key colour or pattern in your attire, like a yellow clip with a yellow dress. Alternatively, go bold with contrasting colours for a striking look.
Versatile for every occasion - Whether you're dressing casually, heading to a semi-formal event, or attending a less traditional formal gathering, a well-coordinated claw clip can elevate your look.
Trendy claw clips - There’s one for every occasion, so here are a few:
Bubble claw - Perfect for a voluminous, playful look. Try a pastel-coloured bubble claw for a soft, summery vibe.
Geometric shapes - A matte black geometric clip works well for a sleek, modern look. For a more contemporary twist - get square or hexagonal clips.
Animal prints - Fun leopard or zebra clips with neutral tones can create an eye-catching contrast.
Embellished clips - Pearl or crystal-encrusted clips add a touch of glamour to evening wear. Pretty elegant.
Ponytail twist
Adding a claw clip to your ponytail is an ideal way to give it a bit more personality. It works for both long and short hair and still gives you a loose flowing look with some movement, just like a classic ponytail, only with a little twist. You can quickly level up a bubble ponytail too with a few small claw clips.
Variations - Whether it's a chic low twist, a playful half-up twist, an eye-catching double twist, or a textured braided twist, each style adds a unique vibe to your hair.
Hair types - Thick hair needs larger clips and sectioned twists. For fine hair - gain volume with a bit of teasing. Even short haired girlies can join in with some extra styling.
Styling - Texture your hair, twist firmly, and secure with a claw clip. Tuck away stray strands with bobby pins for a refined finish.
Occasions - The ponytail twist works for both day-to-day and special nights out. Choose your twist and clip style based on the occasion for a tailored look.
The ponytail twist is more than just a hairstyle - it's a statement of style, comfort, and versatility.
Chic Chignon - ponytail or nah?
What's a Chignon I hear you ask? Well, a "Chic Chignon" isn't a specific variation of the ponytail twist, but rather a different type of updo hairstyle altogether. Similar to a bun, but it doesn’t wrap around itself from a fixed point like a bun.
A Chignon is a classic and elegant hairdo that can be folded or tucked under in any shape. Here’s how to achieve it:
Preparation - Applying texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots for better hold. This is a game-changer for grip and volume! Brush your hair back and gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. This creates a neat base for your chignon.
Twisting options - Now, decide on your chignon style. Do you want it classic, messy, or braided?:
Classic - For a refined look, tightly twist the entire ponytail or just the bottom half upwards.
Messy - Prefer something more relaxed? Loosely twist the bottom half, leaving some strands loose for added texture.
Braided - For an intricate touch, braid the ponytail loosely before wrapping it around its base.
Styling - Wrap your chosen twist upwards and tuck it under the base of the ponytail, creating a bun-like shape. Use bobby pins from the inside for a secure hold.
Claw Clip Mastery - The choice of claw clip will make or break this look. Pick a clip that holds your hair comfortably. Place it diagonally across the base of the chignon and firmly push down to secure.
Finishing touches - Personalise your chignon! Gently tug at it for a relaxed look or keep it tight and sleek. Tame any flyaways with bobby pins, and voilà – a chic masterpiece.
Fast and loose
Trying to style the messy bun or twist that's the perfect balance of chic and undone ironically takes more effort than it should. But not with a claw clip! Just twirl your hair around your finger and grab.
Conclusion
Whether you’re dashing out to shops, chilling by the pool or heading to a special event this summer, there is nothing your claw clip hairstyle can’t handle. Claw clips aren’t the only way to make your hair look great, check out our blog for more top hairstyling tips.
