Long hair is a beautiful asset, but managing those heavy strands during a busy day can be exhausting. Traditional hair ties often lead to tension headaches and unwanted breakage.
If you are looking for a way to stay stylish without the damage, the claw clip is your best friend. It offers a secure hold while maintaining a chic aesthetic.
These 15 easy claw clip hairstyles for long hair are perfect for the gym, the office, or a casual brunch. Let’s dive into these effortless and trendy styling options.
1. The Classic French Twist
Gather all your hair at the nape of your neck and begin twisting it upward toward the crown of your head. Ensure the twist is tight against your scalp.
Tuck the loose ends of your long hair inside the fold of the twist for a clean finish. This creates a streamlined silhouette that looks professional and polished.
Secure the entire length of the twist with a large, sturdy claw clip. This style keeps your hair off your neck and stays secure during a long workday.
2. The Effortless Half-Up Style
Section off the top half of your hair, starting from just above your ears. Pull this section back toward the center of your head for a balanced look.
Twist the gathered section once or twice to create a base for the clip. This helps the clip grip the hair better and prevents it from sliding down.
Clip the twisted section at the back of your head, letting the rest of your long hair flow freely. It is the perfect balance of function and beauty.
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Gather your long hair into a low ponytail at the base of your neck. Do not use a hair tie; simply hold the hair firmly with your hand.
Loop the hair around your fingers to create a soft, relaxed bun shape. Keep it slightly loose to achieve that coveted “undone” and effortless aesthetic.
Fasten the claw clip over the center of the bun to hold it in place. This style is ideal for running errands or lounging at home in comfort.
4. The Twisted Ponytail
Hold your hair as if you are making a mid-height ponytail. Twist the base of the ponytail tightly three or four times to create a firm anchor point.
Lift the ponytail upward and place the claw clip over the twisted section. Allow the remaining length of your hair to cascade over the top of the clip.
The result is a voluminous, fountain-like ponytail that looks much more intricate than it actually is. It adds instant height and bounce to long, heavy hair.
5. The Messy High Bun
Flip your head forward and gather all your hair at the very top of your head. This position provides the most volume and a playful, youthful appearance.
Twist the hair into a large, loose coil and tuck the ends under the base. Don’t worry about perfection; the messy look is part of the charm.
Clamp a large claw clip over the side of the bun to lock it down. This keeps your long hair completely out of your face during intense workouts.
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Divide your hair into two equal vertical sections as if you were making pigtails. Twist each section individually toward the center of your head.
Bring the two twists together and cross them over one another. This creates a sturdy base that can support the weight of very long or thick hair.
Secure the intersection with a wide-tooth claw clip. This variation provides extra security and prevents the hair from sagging throughout the day.
7. The Braided Claw Clip Bun
Braid your long hair into a simple three-strand braid starting at the nape of your neck. Secure the end with a small, clear elastic for extra safety.
Fold the braid upward and tuck the end underneath the top section. This creates a textured and sophisticated look that works well for formal events.
Place your claw clip over the folded braid to keep it flat against your head. The braid adds a beautiful detail that sets this style apart.
8. The Waterfall Half-Up
Take two small sections of hair from the front of your face. Pull them back and cross them over each other at the back of your head.
Instead of a full twist, let the ends of these sections hang down. This mimics the look of a waterfall and adds a romantic touch to your style.
Use a medium-sized decorative claw clip to pin the crossing point. This keeps the hair out of your eyes while showcasing your long, flowing locks.
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Brush all your hair over one shoulder to create a dramatic side-swept look. This style is incredibly flattering and highlights your neckline and jaw.
At the back of your head, gather a small section from the opposite side. Pull it toward the side where your hair is draped.
Secure that section with a small claw clip to keep the hair swept to the side. It is a quick way to add glamour to a simple look.
10. The Tucked-Under Loop
Start by making a low ponytail and begin to pull it through a hair tie, but stop halfway. This creates a large loop of hair.
If you prefer not to use a tie, simply fold the hair upward into a loop shape. Ensure the ends of your long hair are tucked inside.
Clip the loop at the base of your head with a large claw clip. This creates a modern, architectural shape that looks very high-fashion.
11. The Mega-Volume Bun
Separate your hair into a top and bottom section. Clip the bottom section out of the way temporarily to focus on the top part.
Create a bun with the top section and secure it with a small clip. Release the bottom section and wrap it around the base of the top bun.
Use a second, larger claw clip to secure everything together. This technique distributes the weight of long hair, making the bun feel lighter and more voluminous.
12. The 90s Retro Flip
Pull your hair back into a mid-level ponytail and twist it once. Instead of tucking the ends, let them flip over the top of the clip.
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Ensure the claw clip is centered to keep the “fanned” ends symmetrical. It is a great way to show off layers or highlighted tips in long hair.
13. The Polished Low Twist
Smooth your hair down with a bit of serum or water to remove flyaways. Gather the hair at the very bottom of your hairline.
Twist the hair tightly into a horizontal roll along the nape of your neck. This creates a very sleek and professional look suitable for interviews.
Use a long, slim claw clip to secure the roll horizontally. This keeps the style flat against your head and very secure for long hours.
14. The Crossed-Over Crown
Take a section of hair from the left temple and pull it to the right side. Take a section from the right and pull it to the left.
Overlap them at the back of your head to create a “cross” shape. This adds visual interest and a bit of a bohemian feel to your hair.
Clip the intersection point with a small or medium claw clip. This style is perfect for keeping long hair controlled during outdoor activities or festivals.
15. The “Waterfall” Claw Clip
Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a large claw clip. Do not twist the hair; simply clamp it against your head.
Let the long strands fall over the sides and top of the clip. This hides the clip almost entirely and creates a fountain of hair.
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What is the best claw clip for very thick long hair?
Look for clips with long, sturdy teeth and a strong spring. Oversized “XL” clips made of acetate are usually more durable than thin plastic versions.
How do I prevent my claw clip from sliding down?
You can spray a bit of dry shampoo or hairspray on the section before clipping. This adds “grip” to the hair, making it harder for the clip to move.
Are claw clips better for hair than elastic ties?
Yes, claw clips distribute the weight of your hair more evenly. They do not cause the same localized tension and “snagging” that often leads to hair breakage.
Can I use a claw clip on wet long hair?
You can, but be gentle as wet hair is more prone to stretching and snapping. Use a clip with rounded, smooth teeth to avoid damaging the hair cuticle.
How can I make a claw clip hairstyle look more formal?
Choose clips made of metal, pearls, or tortoise shell finishes. Keeping the hair sleek and using a hidden-clip technique like the French twist also adds a formal touch.
Will a claw clip hold my hair all day?
If you choose the right size for your hair density, it should stay put. For extra security, try the double-twist method to give the clip more hair to grab.