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11 Best Claw Clips for the Cutest (and Easiest) Hairstyles

Even thin, thick and curly hair types can adopt the '90s accessory.

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We're no stranger to '90s beauty and fashion trends making a comeback (looking at you bucket hats and hair scrunchies), but that's not to say we wouldn't mind leaving a few (read: butterfly hair clips and pencil-thin eyebrows) in the past ... Still, there's one nostalgic hair trend that's made perhaps the most effortless transition back into the mainstream: Claw clips, the one-stop-shop for a chic and easier-than-ever updo. What's more, they feel much gentler on hair than say, a traditional hair tie.

A nice change from ubiquitous high ponytail fatigue and loose messy buns, claw hair clips offer a more structured and modern take, despite its blast from the past. Simply twist hair up and clamp the clip on, or you can also use smaller sizes for a half-up 'do or to pull back bangs or shorter pieces. However you choose to sport them, know your style will be locked in place, as these hair accessories typically keep a trusty hold on hair. Ahead, we've cut down the clutter to find the cutest claw clips for any hairstyle or hair type, including thin hair and thick hair; as well as small, medium and large size; plus more:

1
Best Overall Claw Hair Clips

J.Crew Rounded Open-Sided Hair Clip

Editor’s Choice
Rounded Open-Sided Hair Clip
Credit: J. Crew

New to the claw clip trend? You can't go wrong with the best-selling J. Crew tortoiseshell claw clip. It's a quintessential accessory for Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab experts, too. "My mom always told me to get hair clips made in France, as they are made of acetate instead of regular plastic, which is stronger, lighter and more flexible," says GH Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Sabina Wizemann. Pricier than typical claw clips, this one's lasted her years.

2
BEST VALUE CLAW CLIPS

Goody Hair Classics Women's Medium Claw Hair Clip

Hair Classics Women's Medium Claw Hair Clip
Now 24% Off
Credit: Goody

If its price tag wasn't alluring enough, know that these budget-friendly Goody clips don't sacrifice quality for cost. Its medium size grips onto hair nicely, with a strong construction that won't slide off your hair. "While I don't expect these to last 20 years, I can be assured that they can handle being dropped, bumped into, attached to clothes or purse when not in use without fear of snapping apart," says one Amazon reviewer.

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3
BEST CLAW CLIPS FOR THICK HAIR

TOCESS Big Hair Claw Clips

Big Hair Claw Clips
Now 41% Off
Credit: Tocess

Thanks to the non-slip grip, these matte claw clips from TOCESS are easy to use on even the thickest of hair. Plus, the colors are super fun with neutrals and brights alike. Our GH Textiles Analyst Emma Seymour keeps this set handy for holding onto her curls: "I wear one of these nearly every day, and they still stay in great condition after months of use."

4
MOST STYLISH CLAW CLIPS

Emi Jay UO Exclusive Big Effing Claw Clip

UO Exclusive Big Effing Claw Clip

"The claaaaw!" Elevate your updo tenfold with this playful accessory from Urban Outfitters. Coming in three fun, colorful prints, it's a great clip to keep on deck for more fashion-forward days. "Unlike many other clips, they hold all of my thick, wavy hair, and they keep up with everyday use," says Beauty Assistant Catharine Malzahn. "While the coating on other clips tends to come off (leaving flakes in my hair), these hold up over time."

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5
MOST POPULAR CLAW CLIPS ON AMAZON

Revlon Strong Hold Hair Claw Clips

Amazon’s Choice
Strong Hold Hair Claw Clips
Credit: Revlon

Boasting over 26,000 ratings on Amazon, Revlon's strong hold hair clips are a top-seller for all hair types, from fine to uber thick. "These are the absolute best hairclips ever," one reviewer shared. "They keep my hair secure with the double teeth and are the perfect size."

6
BEST LARGE CLAW CLIPS FOR THICK HAIR

Prettyou Large Hair Clips (2-Pack)

Large Hair Clips (2-Pack)
Credit: PrettyYou

Even the unruliest hair goes up with ease in these extra large claw clips. Measuring 5.5-inches long, its jumbo sizes work best with curly and long hair types. The black and tortoiseshell bundle lets you switch up your look for under $15. One GH editor enjoyed using it when they had long hair that fell to the end of their back. "It held all my hair up without any strays ever falling out."

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7
BEST CLAW CLIPS FOR THIN HAIR

WILLBOND Large Metal Claw Clips

Large Metal Claw Clips
Credit: Willbond

Take your pick — these Willbond clips come in all of your favorite metallics. The tiny, interlocking teeth hold even the finest strands in place, making these ideal for those with thin hair. One Amazon reviewer with fine, long hair attested that these held their hairstyle well and "make an easy updo or half-up look like I put in a lot more effort than I did."

8
MOST STURDY CLAW CLIPS

Kristin Ess Claw Clip

Claw Clip
Credit: Kristin Ess

Hair care aficionados know this brand well for its trusty hair products like purple shampoos and hair glosses, but Kristin Ess also aces the claw clip game. As the go-to for Malzahn, thick hair types can find a favorite in this reliable option. "I've had this one for more than a year, and I use it almost every day, and it still keeps up with me," she says.

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9
BEST MEDIUM CLAW CLIPS

Kitsch Metal Hair Claw Clips

Metal Hair Claw Clips

The just-right size for anyone with medium to long hair, Kitsch's large metal clip is both pretty and practical. Despite its streamlined appearance, the minimalist design is secretly strong while being lightweight. Plus, it kept our hair in place when trying the brand's heatless hair curler set.

10
BEST CLAW CLIPS FOR CURLY HAIR

Pattern Hair Clip

Hair Clip
Credit: Pattern Beauty

Designed for textured hair, Pattern's claw clip is ideal for curly, coily and kinky strands. Its large size and strong closure hold a lot of hair without budging. Plus, the clip can be helpful for sectioning strands when styling.

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11
BEST SMALL CLAW CLIPS

Goody Small Basic Half-Claw Clips

Small Basic Half-Claw Clips
Credit: Goody

Whether you use them to hold up sections while styling hair, create a half-up 'do or pull all of your hair back, these Goody clips are quite versatile. The three neutral shades work with any hair color, so you can mix and match as you please.

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