Much like many of our favorite '90s fashion staples, from mom jeans to belt bags, claw clips have come back in a big way.
In fact, according to Google Trends, searches for the trendy clips have been steadily increasing over the last five years and in 2022, they officially overtook hair ties in the US. Basically, they are arguably biggest hair accessory of the moment.
"Claw clips have always been a big staple in the beauty industry because they cause a lot less tension on the hair when putting it up, and they are awesome for easy styles or accessorizing," shared celebrity hairstylist Laurabeth Cabott.
Are claw clips better for you hair than hair ties? | How to style claw a clip | Best claw clips | Meet our expert | How we chose
Are claw clips better for your hair than hair ties?
Claw clips aren't just more stylish than a basic hair tie, they're actually better for your hair, too. While conventional elastic hair ties may be convenient, they can be harsh on your hair and cause breakage, which is why Cabott says she always recommends scrunchies or hair clips for those that like to wear their hair up.
How to style a claw clip
One of the best things about claw clips are that they're so versatile. They come in plenty of styles, ranging from large to small and compact, and "you can dress them up or down, wear it messy for a busy day or style [it] for an event," Cabott says.
"There are so many different ways to wear a claw clips. Some of my favorites are a sleek and snatched bun with some face framing, half up half down and the iconic messy buns," she adds.
Another great thing about the trend, is that it's so affordable. Below, we're sharing some of the top-rated claw clips that you can shop now — and they start at just over $5.
Best claw clips
Scunci Barrel Jaw Clips
Count: 1 | Material: Plastic | Best for: Long, thick hair
This clip is has a rounded shape, which the brand says helps hold long, thick hair in place. Plus, the cute pink shade will add the perfect light pop of color to any look.
Alemaky Square Claw Clips (Pack of 12)
Count: 12 | Material: Plastic | Best for: All hair types
Associate editor Shannon Garlin says she always has a claw clip in her hair, and that she always tends to lose them, which is why she purchased this pack of 12. "Claw clips are my favorite hair accessory and I lose them more often than I do hair ties. This set is sturdy, a great value and I like that they come with different sizes," says Garlin.
Cobinaan Medium Claw Hair Clips
Count: 6 | Material: Plastic | Best for: Thin, medium thick hair
If you don't need to put all your hair in the claw clip and want to go for a half up, half down style, these smaller clips are the perfect choice. You'll get a pack of six for less than $7.
LuSeren Hair ClipsProduct Specs
Count: 8 | Material: Plastic | Best for: All hair types
Currently a No. 1 bestseller on Amazon, this hair clip set comes with eight clips in two different styles. According to the brand, they're the perfect size to hold thick hair but are also tight enough to accommodate thinner hair.
Tocess Large Hair Claw Clips
Count: 8 | Material: Plastic, rubber | Best for: All hair types
Another popular option, these clips have more than 30,000 five-star ratings from shoppers, who say that they are durable, great quality and are able to hold both thick and thin hair. "These have survived being attached to purse/duffle bag handles and traveling with me all over the place," one reviewer wrote. "They are comfortable and grip hair well."
Lukacy 6-Pack Large Metal Hair Claw Clips
Count: 6 | Material: Metal alloy | Best for: Thick, medium thick hair
If you’re not totally sold on the style of most hair clips, these ones might change your mind. The sleek gold design makes each one feel like a piece of jewelry. Plus, there are multiple styles included in the pack, so you can switch up your look.
Kitsch Flat Claw Clips
Count: 2 | Material: Recycled plastic | Best for: All hair types
The bulky design of claw clips can sometimes make them uncomfortable to wear when driving or laying down. These ones have a flat design, so the brand says they'll sit comfortably at the back of your head during any activity.
Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Hair Clip
Count: 1 | Material: Plastic | Best for: Curly. coily hair
This hair clip is designed specifically for those with curly hair in mind. According to the brand, it can be a helpful tool during your haircare routine, as it will allow you to section off your thick hair so you can cater to each of your curls.
PaolaBrownShop Personalized Hair Claw
Count: 2 | Material: Plastic, permanent vinyl | Best for: All hair types
These personalized clips will make the perfect stocking stuffers or bridal party favors. Talk about a cute and functional gift!
Mascella OG 2x4 Claw
Count: 1 | Material: Plastic | Best for: Thick, long hair
"I love a tortoise design on most accessories and this claw clip blends well with my hair color," says commerce writer Jannely Espinal. "Because I have thick and long hair, this is the best hair clip for me. It holds my hair up into a bun without any complication."
Jenny Lemons Large Martini Hair Claw Clip
Count: 1 | Material: Plant-based cellulose acetate/handmade | Best for: All hair types
This adorable martini glass claw clip will add some personality to any outfit and surely get you a lot of compliments. Just ask Shop TODAY page Beatrice Graubart.
"I wore this fun claw clip out to dinner and had people coming up to me all night to tell me how cute it is. The large and extra large sizes fit all my hair, so it is both practical and cute!" says Graubart. Editor Amanda Fama is a fan of the pickle claw clip from Jenny Lemons for her curly locks.
Meet our expert
- Laurabeth Cabott is a celebrity hairstylist based in Los Angeles and Kansas City. She is the owner of Artistry by LB salon.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.
Before choosing the best claw clips, we interviewed a hair stylist and researched products from top brands and retailers. We included a mix of top-rated items from verified shoppers, editor-loved finds and more.
