24 Claw Clip Methods for Quick, Stylish Updos

The Foundation: Choosing Your Clip & Prepping Your Hair

Before we jump into the styles, let’s set the stage for success. Not all claw clips are created equal. For fine or short hair, smaller, textured clips with a strong grip are essential. For medium to thick hair, medium-sized clips work well for half-up styles and loose buns. For long, thick, or heavy hair, you’ll need a large, sturdy clip—often with a spring-loaded mechanism—to hold the weight without slipping. A light mist of texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots can be a game-changer, adding the grit and volume needed for a secure hold.

Quick & Easy: The 5-Minute Classics

These are your go-to styles for running errands, a work-from-home day, or when you just need your hair off your neck now.

1. The Classic Twist & Clip: Gather your hair at your nape as if for a low ponytail. Twist the length tightly until it begins to coil on itself. Lift the coil up towards the crown, then secure the base of the twist with a large claw clip, tucking the ends under.

2. The Messy Bun: Pull hair into a high ponytail but don’t secure it. Twist the tail loosely and wrap it into a messy bun shape, letting pieces fall out. Use a large clip to pin the entire bundle to your head, capturing the loose pieces for an intentionally undone look.

3. The Low Nape Clip: Simply gather all your hair at the nape of your neck, give it a single loose twist, and clip it right where your neck meets your hairline. This is elegant in its simplicity.

4. The Ponytail Substitute: Create a mid-height ponytail with your hand, but instead of an elastic, use a strong, medium claw clip to clamp the base. Let the ends flow free for a look that’s gentler on your hair.

5. The Side-Swept Clip: Gather all your hair to one side, at shoulder level. Give it a slight twist and secure it with a decorative clip. This is perfect for adding a touch of romance.

Half-Up, Half-Down: Style with Volume

Half-updos are brilliant for keeping hair out of your face while showing off your length. They also create instant volume at the crown.

6. The Crown Volume Boost: Take a section of hair from the crown, backcomb the roots lightly for lift, then gather and twist the section lightly before pinning it back with a small or medium clip. This adds height without a full updo.

7. The Half-Up Twisted Bun: Section off the top half of your hair. Twist it into a small, neat bun at the back of your crown and secure it with a claw clip. Let the bottom half flow down.

8. The Face-Framing Half-Up: Take two sections from the front, near your temples. Cross them over each other at the back of your head and secure the intersection with a delicate claw clip.

9. The Boho Half-Up: Pull back small, random sections from the front and sides, twisting each lightly. Gather them together loosely at the back of your head and secure with one large, decorative clip for a relaxed, bohemian feel.

10. The Half-Up Ponytail Clip: Secure just the top section of your hair with a claw clip at the back of your head, letting the clipped hair and the bottom layer blend together, mimicking a half-up ponytail.

Elegant & Secure: Updos for Long & Thick Hair

Long and thick hair can feel heavy, but with the right technique, a claw clip can be more secure and comfortable than a tight elastic.

11. The Figure-8 Updo: Make a low ponytail. Split it in two. Twist each section and loop them around each other in a figure-8 pattern, then use a very large, sturdy clip to secure the entire knot against your head.

12. The Braided Base Bun: Create a low braid (any style). Coil the braid into a bun at your nape and use a large claw clip to pin the entire coil flat. The braid adds texture and grip.

13. The Folded Ponytail: Make a high ponytail. Fold the length of the ponytail back up towards the crown, creating a loop, and clamp the base of the fold with a large clip. Tuck the ends under.

14. The Double Clip Security: For the heaviest hair, create a classic twist or bun and secure it with two large clips in an “X” formation. This distributes the weight and holds like a rock.

15. The Nautilus Bun: This popular no-elastic bun can be adapted. Twist and coil your hair into the nautilus shape, but instead of using pins, nestle the center of the coil into a large claw clip opened vertically.

Short & Medium Hair Magic

Think claw clips are only for long hair? Think again! They are perfect for adding shape and holding shorter styles.

16. The Twisted Back Barrette: On a blunt bob, take two front sections, twist them back, and secure them together at the back of your head with a small, elegant clip—like a modern barrette.

17. The Side-Swept Pixie: If you have growing-out layers, use a tiny claw clip to sweep and secure one side of your hair back, creating an asymmetrical, chic look.

18. The Mullet Enhancer: For shag or mullet cuts, use a small clip to pin back just the top front section, allowing the shorter layers and tail to pop.

19. The French Twist (Short Hair Version): Gather hair at the nape, twist upwards, and as you twist, tuck the ends inward. Use a medium clip horizontally to clamp the entire twist against your head.

20. The Bubble Ponytail Accent: Create a small half-up ponytail with a clip. Then, create a second ponytail below it, incorporating the first tail, and clip it. This adds fun dimension to medium lengths.

Evening & Special Occasion Looks

With the right clip and a bit of detail, your updo can be red-carpet ready.

21. The Elegant Side Chignon: Gather all hair to one side, twist it tightly, and coil it into a low bun at the side of your nape. Secure with a large, ornate clip that becomes the jewelry of the hairstyle.

22. The Braided Crown with Clip: Create a loose Dutch braid along your hairline, from one temple to the other. Where the braid ends, gather it with the rest of your hair into a low updo and secure with a beautiful clip.

23. The Textured Updo with Face Framers: Create a deliberately messy, volumized bun or twist high on your head. Secure with a large clip. Gently pull out a few face-framing tendrils and curl them for a soft, romantic effect.

24. The Bejeweled Statement: Choose a stunning, embellished claw clip as your focal point. Create a simple, sleek low bun or twist. Place the clip prominently over the center of the bun. Let the accessory shine.

Pro Tips for a Flawless, All-Day Hold

Mastering the method is half the battle. These tips will ensure your style lasts.

Anchor the Clip Correctly: Always open the clip fully, place the teeth against your scalp, and then clamp down on a good section of hair. The goal is to pin hair to your head, not just clamp hair together.

Embrace Texture: Second-day hair or hair with product grips better. If your hair is freshly washed and silky, add some texture first.

Use the Right Size: A clip that’s too small will slip and struggle. A clip that’s too large may not clamp tightly enough. Don’t be afraid to use a bigger clip than you think you need.

Secure the Base: For updos, the clip should always be securing the base of the bun or twist where it meets your head, not just the ends of the hair.

Unlock Your Hair’s Potential

The humble claw clip has evolved into a powerhouse of styling potential. With these 24 methods in your arsenal, you’re equipped to handle any hair day—from the rushed mornings to the nights you want to feel extra special. The beauty lies in its simplicity and the gentle, damage-free hold it provides. So, raid your drawer, invest in a few new sizes, and start experimenting. Your quick, stylish, and effortlessly chic updo is just a clip away.

Which style will you try first? Share your favorite claw clip looks with us!