15+ Mom Clip Hairstyles Using Just One Hair Clip
The return of claw clips isn’t exactly a shock. With so many ‘90s trends popping up again, from the Rachel haircut to wispy, feathered bangs, it only makes sense that this iconic accessory is back on the scene.
What used to be a simple 90’s must-have is now a total style statement. You’ll find claw clips in endless colors, shapes, and finishes that feel more like jewelry than hair tools.
They add a chic, effortless touch to any outfit and are surprisingly gentle on your hair since they don’t tug or cause the breakage that elastics often do.
Whether you want to upgrade your workday updo or just look put together while running out the door, claw clips make it easy. With tips from professional stylists (and yes, you can totally do these at home), we’ve rounded up some of the cutest and quickest ways to style them, no pro skills required.
This Quick and Easy Claw Clip Hairstyle
Checker print is here to stay, and this checker claw clip proves it. When you’re short on time, just bend your hair at the base of your neck, lift it upward, and clip it in place. It keeps your hair out of your face and adds instant flair.
The Classic French Twist
There are so many fun ways to style your hair with a claw clip, but the timeless French twist never fails. You can tuck the ends for a polished finish or let a few face-framing pieces fall for a softer look.
Either way, your hair stays up and out of your face while still looking effortlessly chic for anything from a meeting to a first date. If your clip tends to slip, Hairstory stylist and lead brand educator Wes Sharpton suggests adding a little powder to your roots for extra grip and hold.
This Claw Clip Hairstyle for Long Hair
Long hair is already beautiful on its own, but adding a claw clip gives it that effortless, stylish touch with almost no effort. If your hair is straight, use a curling wand to add a soft wave before styling.
Then pull thicker sections from both sides of your head and secure them together with a claw clip at the back. It’s quick, pretty, and gives your hair instant shape and movement.
Low Claw Clip Bun
If you thought buns were only for long hair, think again. A low claw clip bun can easily be done with short hair. Gather your strands at the nape of your neck, twist them inward, and clip them with a medium claw clip.
It’s sleek, easy, and ideal for days when you want a neater look.
This Claw Clip Headband Hairstyle
Love the headband trend? Combine it with a claw clip for a chic, balanced look. Use a boar bristle brush to smooth your hair into a slick bun, then secure it with a claw clip.
Finish it off by placing your headband on top for a polished, fashion-forward style that looks great for any outing.
Half Up Claw Clip Short Hair
A half-up hairstyle is one of the easiest ways to style short hair with a claw clip. It adds instant lift and keeps your hair out of your face while still showing off your cut.
Simply take the top half of your hair, twist it lightly, and clip it at the back. This style works beautifully for both casual days and dressier occasions.
Half-Up, Half-Down
Short-haired girls, this one’s your go-to. For a quick and pretty style that keeps your hair out of your face, start behind your ears and separate the top section of your hair.
Clip it up and let the rest fall naturally. Ghanima Abdullah, cosmetologist and beauty expert at The Right Hairstyles, says this simple move adds volume while keeping things light and airy.
Half-Up, Half-Down Bun Edition
If messy buns are your thing, you’ll love this half-up version. Gather half of your hair, twist it into a small bun, and clip it from underneath for that perfectly undone look.
Smaller clips work best since you’re only securing part of your hair. It’s a playful, effortless style that feels fresh and fun for any day.
Elegant Short Hair with Claw Clip
Short hair can still look sophisticated. For an elegant finish, smooth your hair back, twist the ends, and secure them with a neutral or pearl-style clip. It gives off a polished, graceful vibe that works well for dinners or formal gatherings.
Twisted Half Up Hair
This version of the half-up look adds a soft, romantic touch. Take small sections from both sides, twist them gently, and fasten them at the back with a cute mini clip. It’s perfect for brunch dates or an afternoon out when you want to look effortlessly styled.
Twisted Short Hairdo with Claw Clip
For a fun twist on short hair, gather sections from each side of your head and twist them toward the back. Secure them with a small claw clip to hold the look in place. This simple twist gives your short hair dimension and shape without much effort.
Effortless and Comfortable
When you’re in a rush but still want to look cute, go for an easy twist. Just gather your hair as if you’re making a bun and secure it with a claw clip.
“I like twisting it up, like starting a bun and leaving the top flopped out,” says Kimberly Gueldner, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Voel Hair. She recommends the MLE Gemini Claw in Chai to add a bit of fun and color to your look.
This Jumbo Claw Clip
If you have curls or super-thick hair, it might seem impossible to get a claw clip to hold everything in place. Luckily, oversized jumbo clips exist to make life easier.
Go for an XL clip like this one from Kov Essentials, perfect for securing even the fullest hair types. Everyone can enjoy the magic of the claw clip look with the right size.
The Perfect Bun
Channel your inner ballerina with this modern, elegant bun that never goes out of style. To get the look, bend your hair at the base of your head, create a low ponytail, and twist it upward.
Clip it to hold the French twist in place. For a softer feel, pull a few strands loose or let some wispy pieces frame your face. It’s polished but still has that relaxed charm.
This Piecey 90s Claw Clip Hairstyle
For that Pamela Anderson-inspired 90s vibe, stylist Alex Brown recommends gathering all of your hair, twisting it in one direction to create a vertical bun, and securing it with a claw clip. It’s quick, nostalgic, and so easy to do at home.
Short Messy Claw Clip Hairstyle
Messy hairstyles are always in, and this short, messy claw clip look is no exception. Simply tousle your hair for a lived-in feel, twist the middle section loosely, and clip it. It’s casual, cute, and gives that perfectly undone vibe that looks intentional.
Slicked-Back Elegance
Channel your inner sleek queen with this half-slicked, half-natural style that works for almost any occasion. “You can elevate a claw clip look by smoothing the front for a clean, pulled-back vibe,” says Sharpton.
You can also play with texture by leaving a few strands out. It’s an easy way to switch from polished to relaxed without redoing your entire hairstyle.
