How To Put Your Hair In A Claw Clip

The claw clip has made a triumphant comeback from its 90s heyday, establishing itself as the ultimate hair accessory for effortless style. Whether you're rushing out the door, need a quick fix for second-day hair, or want to elevate your look with minimal effort, the claw clip is your versatile best friend. At Reverie Hair, we believe in celebrating simple yet effective styling techniques that work for everyone—and the claw clip certainly fits that description.

Why the Claw Clip Revival?

The humble claw clip has experienced a genuine renaissance in recent years.

As noted by Elle UK

"The claw clip is the ultimate cool-girl accessory that balances form and function perfectly. It's not just practical—it makes a statement while keeping your hair out of your face."

This Y2K staple has been embraced by celebrities and fashion icons alike, with Vogue UK declaring that "the claw clip represents the perfect marriage of nostalgia and practicality that defines current beauty trends. It's the rare accessory that actually simplifies your routine while adding character to your look."

What makes claw clips particularly appealing is their gentleness on hair compared to elastic bands, which can cause breakage and tension. They're also incredibly versatile, working for various hair types, textures, and lengths—though the techniques may differ slightly.

Essential Claw Clip Hairstyles for Every Occasion

Let's explore some classic and creative ways to incorporate this accessory into your daily hair routine. These claw clip hairstyles range from quick five-second styles to more intricate looks that still take under a minute to achieve.

The Classic Twist Up

This is the foundation of claw clip styling—perfect for beginners and a go-to for even the most experienced claw clip enthusiasts.

1. Gather all your hair as if creating a low ponytail
2. Twist the hair upward toward your crown until it folds against your head
3. Open the claw clip and secure it around the twisted hair, with the clip's teeth pointing downward
4. Adjust any loose strands for a polished or deliberately messy look

This style works beautifully for medium to long hair and can be positioned higher or lower depending on your preference. For a more sophisticated take,

Elle UK recommends

"twisting with more tension for a sleeker finish, or keeping it loose for that coveted French-girl undone effect."

The Half-Up Twist

For those days when you want your hair partially down but need some face-framing

structure:

1. Section off the top half of your hair
2. Twist this section back and up
3. Secure with a smaller claw clip
4. Leave the bottom section loose

This style is particularly flattering for those learning how to put hair in claw clip for the first time, as it's more forgiving and allows for adjustments.

The Butterfly Clip Up

Named for the way the ends fan out like butterfly wings, this style has become a TikTok sensation:

1. Gather your hair at the back of your head
2. Twist it upward once
3. Before the second twist, split the hair into two sections and fold them outward
4. Secure with your claw clip in the center
5. Fan out the ends for the butterfly effect

According to Vogue UK

"The butterfly clip style exemplifies the current trend of 'done-but-not-too-done' hair—it looks intricate but takes seconds to achieve."

The Low Loose Bun

Perfect for a more elegant look:

1. Gather hair at the nape of your neck
2. Twist loosely and wrap into a bun shape
3. Secure with your claw clip from underneath
4. Pull a few face-framing pieces loose for a softer effect

How to Wear a Claw Clip with Long Hair

Those blessed with longer locks may find that standard claw clip techniques need some modification. When learning how to wear a claw clip with long hair, the weight and

volume present unique challenges.

For heavier, longer hair:

1. Start with the classic twist up technique
2. After the initial twist, continue twisting the hair tightly as you move upward
3. For extra security, create a figure-eight pattern with the hair before clipping
4. Use a larger, more sturdy clip with strong springs
5. Position the claw clip horizontally rather than vertically for better distribution of weight

"Long hair requires a more strategic approach to claw clip styling," notes Elle UK. "The key is creating tension in your twist to support the weight while choosing the right size clip—too small and it won't hold, too large and it becomes unwieldy."

Another trick is to use two medium-sized clips instead of one large one, positioning them in opposite directions for maximum hold.

Tips for Claw Clip Success

No matter your hair type or the style you're attempting, these universal tips will help you master the claw clip:

Choose the Right Clip

• Larger clips for thick or long hair
  
• Medium clips for everyday styles and medium hair
• Mini clips for short hair or sectioning
• Consider the spring strength—stronger springs hold better but may be harder to open

Texturize for Grip

• Claw clips work best with a little texture
• For slippery, freshly washed hair, add dry shampoo or texturizing spray
• For very sleek hair, try backcombing slightly at the roots where you'll place the clip

Position for Comfort

• For all-day wear, avoid placing the clip directly against your scalp
• Find the sweet spot where the clip feels secure but doesn't pull
• For driving or leaning back, position the clip on the top of your head rather than the back

Secure with Strategy

• Cross bobby pins in an X shape underneath your clip for extra security
• For very thick hair, divide into two sections and clip separately
• Twist tighter at the base and looser toward the ends for a more secure hold

Making It Your Own

The beauty of claw clip styling lies in its adaptability to personal preference.

As Elle UK puts it,

"There's no wrong way to wear a claw clip—it's about finding the position, tension, and style that works for your unique hair texture and face shape."

Experiment with:

• Different positions (high, mid-level, or low)
• Various tensions (sleek and tight or deliberately undone)
• Leaving face-framing pieces out
• Combining with other accessories like silk scarves or bobby pins

At Reverie Hair, we encourage embracing both the practicality and style potential of the claw clip. This simple accessory can transform your look in seconds while being gentle on your hair—the perfect combination for busy modern lives.

Whether you're new to claw clips or looking to elevate your existing technique, these versatile accessories offer endless possibilities for expression. From quick morning styles to elegant evening options, the claw clip continues to prove itself as the ultimate hair essential.

So next time you reach for an elastic, consider the claw clip instead—your hair will thank you for the breakage-free styling option, and you'll enjoy the effortless chic it brings to every look.