Hair Accessories: Claw Clips, Barrettes and How to Wear Them
- Words by
- Julio Arco
- Published
- Reading
- 4 min
Among the most popular hair accessories right now, the claw clip leads, followed by barrettes, mini clips and pearl pins. If you want one to start with, pick a medium claw in a matte or tortoiseshell finish. It works for a quick twist, a half-up style and most outfits.
The 90s version was often bright plastic. Today's versions come in quieter finishes, metallics and oversized shapes, so the same idea fits an office as easily as a weekend. Here are the names of the main types, what each does, and how to wear them.
What are the main types of hair accessories?
Knowing the names helps when you shop, because the same clip is sold under several labels.
Claw clips
A claw clip is a curved clip with teeth that grips a twist or bun. Large ones hold thick or long hair. Look for smooth edges and a spring that closes firmly without pinching.
Mini claw clips
These small claws pin back front sections or hold a half-up style. Pastels and pearl details read as playful. On short or fine hair, they are the size that actually stays put.
Statement claws
Oversized or geometric claws, in bright colors or animal prints, do the job of a piece of jewelry. Let it be the only loud thing in your hair.
Barrettes and snap clips
Flat clips that lie against the head. They suit sleek, retro-leaning styles, especially in gold-tone metal or with small stones.
Pearl and beaded clips
Pearls, beads or crystals add a dressy touch. They look best on soft waves or loose braids, where the shine has some movement around it.
Why are claw clips and barrettes back?
Part of it is practicality: a claw goes in with one hand and needs no elastic. Part is nostalgia for 90s accessories, and part is that the designs have changed. Matte black, navy and neutral tones feel grown-up, while metallics and crystals suit evenings. Some brands also make clips from bamboo or recycled plastic if materials matter to you.
Through the lens of evidence-based design, I'd say finish matters more than shape. A matte clip absorbs light and recedes, while a glossy or metallic one catches it and draws the eye to the hair.
How do you style hair claws and clips?
Casual: the loose twist
Gather your hair at the nape, twist it up and close a claw over the twist. Leave a few strands around your face so it looks relaxed.
Work: the French twist
Sweep hair back, twist upward and secure with a matte black or gold-tone claw. If you wear gold jewelry, matching the clip's metal keeps the look tidy.
Retro: side part with barrettes
Make a deep side part and pin one side with a pearl or crystal barrette. It pairs well with a satin slip dress and heels.
Romantic: half-up with mini clips
Pull back the top section and secure it with two or three small pearl clips. This suits weddings, dinners and brunch.
Bold: high ponytail with a statement claw
Make a sleek ponytail, secure it with an elastic, then add a geometric claw as decoration. Leather jackets and graphic tees suit it well.
Which hair accessories suit your hair?
For hair accessories for long hair, a large claw holds the weight of a twist or low bun. Thick hair also needs a large claw with a strong spring. Fine or short hair does better with mini claws and barrettes.
If your hair is slippery, a little texturizing spray can help a clip grip. Keep the hold gentle: a clip pulled tight all day is a comfort problem, and if you notice breakage or a sore scalp, check with a dermatologist. The American Academy of Dermatology also suggests a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush to detangle wet hair, so let hair dry or detangle gently before you clip it up.
Which accessories go with which outfit?
- Everyday: T-shirt, jeans and sneakers with a tortoiseshell claw and small stud earrings.
- Office: blazer, trousers and loafers with a matte clip and gold jewelry.
- Evening: satin dress and heels with pearl barrettes, echoing a pearl necklace or earrings.
- Weekend: sundress and sandals with pastel mini clips.
Layering several clips works if you keep sizes in order: smaller near the front, larger at the back. For more ideas, see how to style resin hair clips and bold hair pins.
What are the current trends in hair accessories?
- Matte finishes in black, navy and neutrals.
- Bamboo, recycled plastic and similar materials.
- Geometric, oversized and asymmetrical shapes.
- Metallics and crystals for evening.
- Candy pastels for spring and summer.
If you like the broader mix, our post on headbands and clips covers more, and the spring 90s accessory trends shows how the era plays out beyond hair.
Three quick rules for wearing them
- Match the clip's color or metal to something else you wear.
- Let one bold accessory lead.
- Try different angles: a claw set sideways or low looks different from one at the crown.
Frequently asked questions
What are some popular hair accessories?
Claw clips, barrettes, mini clips, headbands, scrunchies and pearl pins are the most common choices. Claw clips are the easiest to start with.
What are some good accessories to put in my hair?
A medium claw clip suits most hair types, while barrettes and pearl clips add polish to sleek or half-up styles. Choose the size by hair thickness.
Can I wear claw clips with short hair?
Yes. Mini claws and barrettes work well for pinning back front sections or making a small half-up style.
Do hair claws damage hair?
Gentle use with a smooth, well-made clip is unlikely to be a problem, but avoid pulling it tight. If you see breakage, check with a dermatologist.
How do you clean hair accessories?
Wipe them with a damp cloth, or use mild soap and a soft brush for detailed designs. Let them dry fully before use.
Filed under Accessory Trends
