Whether you’re tossing your hair up for homeroom or going full glam for a Friday night, the claw clip is *that* girl: She’s cute, she’s trendy and she’s always there in a pinch. Basically, she’s your most versatile updo-er—and mastering these pretty styles is about to make her your new MVP.

Fully fab

Not quite ready for wash day? Use that built-in texture to your advantage. “Claw clips are perfect for second- or third-day hair,” says celeb stylist Jill Buck. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it upward and secure it with a large clip. Then gently pull at the crown to add a bit of lived-in volume.

New heights

Let your curls shine—literally. Prep damp hair with a curl serum to lock in hydration and enhance your natural texture, says Buck. Once hair is dry, sweep it back, leaving out a few face-framing pieces. Twist and lift the base upward, then secure the clip underneath. Fluff your curls for instant volume.

Amped-up pony

Meet the ponytail glow-up with a built-in boost. Pull your hair back as if you’re starting a pony, then twist and lift the length before clipping it at the base, says celeb stylist Stephanie Angelone. Let your hair fall over the claw to hide it and finish with texturizing spray for extra body.

Feeling loopy

Upgrade your slick-back with a chic twist-and-tuck moment. Brush hair smooth, then twist firmly until the length naturally folds, says Angelone. “Secure the clip in the twisted hair so no ends are sticking out,” she adds. Tame any baby hairs with a tiny bit of gel.

Classic clip-back

“This is the most casual and easiest style to re-create,” says Buck. Simply sweep back the hair in front of your ears and clip it. Have bangs? Leave them out for soft framing. A bright, bold clip instantly adds personality to this effortless look.

Pretty mini

These tiny clips are giving mega cuteness. Add fullness and grip by massaging in a bit of volumizing powder. Then, gather your hair and twist into a bun at the nape of your neck. Lock the style in place with mini claws around the edges of your updo.

Claws out

These little grips are giving major glam…

Hey, girl! Just to let you know, this originally ran in our February/March 2026 Issue. Read our print mag for *free* today when you click HERE!

Read on for more hair inspo…
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🩷 Achieve an effortless slick back in no time

Top and slider image: @annikasofiie
Body images: @tele_ties, @wambui.k._, @haileypolk, @scunci, @thehairedit, @meivee.shop