How to Style a Claw Clip: 10 Easy Hairstyles for Any Occasion

Claw clips are back and bigger than ever. But if you've struggled to make them look intentional rather than like you just threw your hair up, you're not alone. The difference between "effortlessly chic" and "post-gym messy" comes down to technique.

This guide covers 10 easy claw clip hairstyles that work for any occasion, from casual coffee runs to formal events. Each style includes step-by-step instructions and tips for making it work with your specific hair type.

For help choosing the right clip size and style, see our ultimate guide to claw clips.

Before You Start: Essential Tips

Choose the Right Size Clip

Using the wrong size is the most common styling mistake. Too small and the clip can't hold all your hair; too large and it looks awkward and slides out. For most of these styles, the TOCESS 8 Pack Big Hair Claw Clips work excellently with their strong metal spring and matte non-slip surface.

Prep Your Hair

For best results:

• Second-day hair holds better than freshly washed hair
• Texturizing spray adds grip for slippery hair
• Dry hair is easier to work with than damp hair
• Detangled hair creates smoother twists

Now let's get into the styles.

Style 1: The Classic Twist (Beginner)

The foundational claw clip style everyone should master. It's polished enough for work yet casual enough for errands.

Time: 15-20 seconds

Best for: All hair types and lengths

How to Do It

1. Gather all your hair at the back of your head as if making a low ponytail
2. Twist the length of your hair clockwise until it forms a rope
3. Continue twisting and let the rope coil upward against your head
4. Secure the clip vertically over the coiled twist
5. Adjust any pieces that escaped

Pro Tips

• The tighter you twist, the more secure the hold
• Position the clip in the center of the twist for balance
• For a sleeker look, smooth hair with a brush before twisting
• For a messier look, pull pieces out around your face after clipping

Style 2: The Half-Up Twist (Beginner)

Perfect for showing off your length while keeping hair out of your face. This style works for almost any occasion.

Time: 20 seconds

Best for: Medium to long hair

How to Do It

1. Part your hair horizontally from ear to ear
2. Gather the top section (about 1/3 of your hair)
3. Twist this section loosely
4. Secure with a medium or small clip
5. Let the bottom section flow freely
6. Pull out face-framing pieces if desired

Pro Tips

• Place the clip at crown height for maximum volume
• A smaller clip works better since you're securing less hair
• This style works beautifully with waves or curls in the bottom section

The Lolalet 12 Pack Small Hair Claw Clips are perfect for half-up styles, opening nearly 181 degrees for easy use. For more mini clip options, see our best mini claw clips guide.

Style 3: The Low Bun (Beginner)

Sophisticated and professional, the low bun is ideal for work, interviews, or any setting where you want to look put-together.

Time: 20-25 seconds

Best for: Medium to long hair

How to Do It

1. Gather hair at the nape of your neck
2. Twist the length loosely
3. Coil the twisted hair into a bun shape
4. Secure the clip horizontally across the bun
5. Tuck any loose ends under the clip

Pro Tips

• A looser twist creates a fuller, more romantic bun
• A tighter twist creates a sleeker, more professional look
• Place the clip so teeth grip both the bun and hair at the nape

Style 4: The High Bun (Beginner)

The high bun creates a youthful, energetic look. It's practical for workouts while still looking intentional.

Time: 20-25 seconds

Best for: Medium to long hair

How to Do It

1. Flip your head forward and gather all hair at the crown
2. Stand upright, holding the gathered hair
3. Twist the length into a rope
4. Coil the rope into a bun on top of your head
5. Secure with a large clip placed vertically behind the bun

Pro Tips

• The flip-forward technique creates natural volume at the crown
• This style puts more weight at the top, so use a clip with a strong spring
• Leave some wispy pieces out around the hairline for a softer look

Style 5: The French Twist (Intermediate)

The elegant French twist is surprisingly easy with a claw clip. It's perfect for formal events, weddings, and date nights.

Time: 30-45 seconds

Best for: Shoulder-length or longer hair

How to Do It

1. Gather hair at the nape as if making a ponytail
2. Twist the hair upward while keeping the twist flat against your head
3. Continue twisting up toward the crown
4. Tuck the ends under the twist (or leave them fanned out for a different look)
5. Secure the clip vertically along the twist
6. Adjust for evenness on both sides

Pro Tips

• The key is keeping the twist flat against your head, not sticking out
• Use bobby pins underneath for extra security at formal events
• This style is harder with very thick hair; consider a half-French twist instead

For detailed French twist instructions, see our French twist tutorial.

Style 6: The Banana Clip Style (Intermediate)

This vertical style elongates the neck and creates a unique silhouette. It's a modern update on the classic 90s banana clip look.

Time: 25-30 seconds

Best for: Long, straight or wavy hair

How to Do It

1. Gather all hair at the back of your head
2. Instead of twisting, fold the length upward against your head
3. The ends should point toward the ceiling
4. Secure the clip vertically, gripping the fold
5. Fan out the ends above the clip for volume

Pro Tips

• This style works best with one single clip placed vertically
• The "fan" at the top can be tucked under or left visible
• Spritz with hairspray to keep the fanned ends in place

Style 7: The Side Twist (Beginner)

An asymmetrical style that's both romantic and practical. It keeps hair off one shoulder while creating visual interest.

Time: 20 seconds

Best for: Medium to long hair

How to Do It

1. Sweep all hair to one side
2. Gather at the side of your neck (below and behind your ear)
3. Twist the length loosely
4. Coil upward against the side of your head
5. Secure with clip, positioning it behind your ear

Pro Tips

• This style pairs beautifully with off-shoulder tops
• Switch sides day to day to prevent tension on one side
• Works well for curly hair that's hard to control centrally

Style 8: The Double Clip (Intermediate)

For very long or thick hair that overwhelms a single clip. The double clip method distributes weight and creates an interesting visual.

Time: 30-40 seconds

Best for: Very long hair, very thick hair, or hair that breaks single clips

How to Do It

1. Divide hair horizontally into two sections
2. Clip the top section out of the way temporarily
3. Twist the bottom section and secure with a clip low on your head
4. Release the top section
5. Twist and secure with a second clip above the first
6. Adjust so both clips align vertically

Pro Tips

• Use matching clips for a cohesive look
• Space the clips 2-3 inches apart
• This technique also works with clips placed side by side

For more tips on managing heavy hair, see our large claw clips guide.

Style 9: The Lazy Loop (Beginner)

The easiest style on this list. It's intentionally undone and perfect for when you have zero time but still want to look put together.

Time: 10 seconds

Best for: Any hair type, especially second-day hair

How to Do It

1. Gather hair loosely at the back
2. Create a single loop without fully pulling hair through
3. Secure the clip over the loop
4. That's it. Really.

Pro Tips

• Don't overthink this one, the messy look is the goal
• Leave out more face-framing pieces than you think you need
• A matte-finish clip complements this casual style
• The TELETIES Medium Flat Round Clip is perfect for this style—its flat-back design is comfortable even for all-day wear

Style 10: The Braided Twist (Intermediate)

A combination style that adds texture and visual interest. Perfect for days when you want something more creative.

Time: 45-60 seconds

Best for: Medium to long hair

How to Do It

1. Create a simple three-strand braid from ear level down
2. Secure the braid end with a small elastic (clear ones are invisible)
3. Twist the braid upward and coil against your head
4. Secure with a claw clip
5. Gently loosen the braid for more volume

Pro Tips

• A loose braid creates more texture than a tight one
• You can start with a rope twist or fishtail braid for different textures
• This style lasts all day because the braid prevents unraveling

Troubleshooting Common Problems

My Clip Keeps Falling Out

Solutions:

• Use a larger clip that can hold all your hair
• Twist your hair tighter before clipping
• Add texturizing spray for more grip
• Make sure you're clipping at the thickest part of your twist

For more fixes, see why does my claw clip keep falling out.

My Style Looks Messy (Not in a Good Way)

Solutions:

• Brush hair smooth before twisting
• Use a clip with a strong spring that holds firmly
• Tuck flyaways with bobby pins
• Choose a style that works with your hair texture, not against it

The Clip Gives Me a Headache

Solutions:

• Position the clip lower on your head (less pulling at the scalp)
• Choose a lighter-weight clip
• Loosen your twist slightly
• Try flat clips designed to be comfortable against your head

My Hair Is Too Short for These Styles

If your hair is chin-length or shorter, try:

• Half-up styles with mini clips
• Accent clips that pin back sections
• Multiple small clips for a decorative look

See our claw clips for short hair guide for styles designed for shorter lengths.

Matching Styles to Occasions

FAQs

Which style is best for beginners?

The Classic Twist is the foundation for all other styles. Master this first, then branch out. The Lazy Loop is easiest if you want something that requires zero skill.

How do I make my style last all day?

Three factors: right-sized clip, tight twist, and texture in your hair. If your hair is very slippery, texturizing spray before styling is essential.

Can I use claw clips on wet hair?

It's possible but not ideal. Wet hair is heavier and stretchier, making clips more likely to slip. If you must style wet hair, use a larger clip than usual and expect to readjust.

Do these styles work for curly hair?

Yes, though some modifications help. Curly hair has natural volume, so you may not need to twist as much. The Half-Up Twist and Lazy Loop work especially well with curls.

For curly-specific tips, see our claw clips for curly hair guide.

How do I know which style suits my face shape?

• Round faces: High buns and French twists elongate
• Long faces: Side twists and low buns add width
• Heart faces: Half-up styles balance proportions
• Oval faces: Most styles work well

When in doubt, try them all and photograph yourself. You'll quickly see what works.

The Bottom Line

Claw clip styling doesn't require special skills, just practice and the right technique. Start with the Classic Twist, then work your way through this list. Within a week, you'll have a repertoire of styles you can do in under 30 seconds each.

The best part? Unlike elaborate braids or heat styling, claw clips are forgiving. If it doesn't look right, pull it out and try again. That's the beauty of these simple, versatile accessories.

For more styling inspiration, explore our professional hairstyles for work, wedding and formal styles, and complete claw clip guide. For home styling precision, check out our professional sectioning clips guide.