Claw Clip Hairstyles: 8 Easy Looks for Every Hair Type
Claw clips are back — and this time they're not just a quick fix for a bad hair day. From half-up looks to twisted updos, claw clips have become one of the fastest ways to go from "undone" to "intentional" in under a minute. But not every claw clip works for every head of hair. The size, tooth style, and grip strength all matter — a lot more than most people realize.
Below, we're breaking down 8 easy claw clip hairstyles, plus exactly which type of clip to reach for depending on whether your hair is fine, medium, thick, or curly.
How to Choose the Right Claw Clip for Your Hair Type
Before you try any of the styles below, it helps to know what you're working with. Here's the quick breakdown:
- Fine or thin hair: Look for a smaller clip with tighter, closer-set teeth so it grips without slipping out. Mini and small rectangle claws work best.
- Medium hair: Most standard claw clips will work well — lay-flat and oval styles give a smooth, secure hold without adding bulk.
- Thick or curly hair: Go bigger. Jumbo and double-teeth claw clips are built with a wider tooth span and stronger tension to hold thicker sections without snapping or sliding.
You can browse our full range by hold strength and size in the Claw Clips collection.
8 Easy Claw Clip Hairstyles
1. The Classic Half-Up Claw Clip
The easiest style on this list. Gather the top section of your hair (from ear to ear), twist it once or twice for texture, and clamp it in place. Works well on almost any hair type, but on fine hair, a smaller looped claw clip will hold better without weighing the section down.
2. The Twisted Messy Bun
Gather all your hair at the crown, twist it into a loose coil, fold it over itself, and secure with a claw clip horizontally across the base. For thick or curly hair, reach for a double-teeth rectangle claw — the extra grip keeps a heavier bun from slipping throughout the day.
3. The French Twist
A dressed-up option for work or a night out. Twist your hair upward along the back of your head and pin the twist in place vertically with the clip. A lay-flat oval clip sits smoothly against the head for a more polished, low-profile finish.
4. The Low Ponytail Wrap
Instead of an elastic, gather your hair into a low ponytail and wrap the claw clip vertically around the base for a clean, elastic-free look. This style photographs especially well and works for medium to thick hair.
5. The Front Half-Twist
Take two small sections from the front on either side, twist them back and cross them at the crown, then clip. A great option if you want hair out of your face without pulling everything back — best with a smaller wavy-tooth clip for a secure but lightweight hold.
6. The Beach Wave Clip-Back
If your hair already has natural texture or waves, simply gather the top half loosely (don't smooth it out) and clip it back as-is. This one's designed to look a little undone on purpose — ideal for second-day hair.
7. The Double Claw Twist (Thick & Curly Hair)
For longer, thicker, or curly hair that one clip can't handle, split your hair into two twisted sections and secure each with its own claw clip on either side of the crown. A jumbo double-teeth claw clip is built specifically for this — it holds thick, curly sections without slipping loose by midday.
8. Space Buns with Mini Claws (Fine Hair)
Split your hair into two sections, twist each into a small bun, and secure with a mini claw clip. Mini clips are sized specifically for finer, thinner hair, so they hold small sections securely without sliding out.
Shop Claw Clips by Hair Type
Ready to try one of these looks? Shop the full range, or jump straight to clips sized for your hair type:
- Claw clips for fine or thin hair
- Claw clips for medium hair
- Claw clips for thick or curly hair
- Shop the full Claw Clips collection
FAQ
What size claw clip should I use for thick hair?
For thick or curly hair, choose a jumbo or double-teeth claw clip. These have a wider tooth span and stronger tension, so they can hold larger sections securely without slipping or snapping.
Will a claw clip damage fine or thin hair?
Not if you choose the right size. Mini and small claw clips are designed with closer-set teeth specifically for fine or thin hair, giving a secure hold without excess pulling or tension on the hair.
How do I keep a claw clip from sliding out?
Slipping is usually a sign the clip is the wrong size for your hair type or section thickness. Match the clip size to your hair type — mini for fine hair, standard for medium hair, and jumbo or double-teeth for thick or curly hair — and clip a slightly twisted section rather than smooth hair for extra grip.
Can claw clips be worn every day?
Yes. Claw clips are gentle on hair when sized correctly and don't create the same tension or breakage risk as tight elastics, making them a good everyday option.
