Ever had a claw clip slide out halfway through the day, or spring open the moment you lean back in your chair? Usually it isn't the clip. It's the size. Here is how to find one that stays put, explained simply.
Why size matters
A claw clip works a bit like a small hand. Its teeth close around the hair you twist into it. Give it more hair than it can hold and it pushes itself open. Give it too little and there is nothing for the teeth to grip, so it slowly slides down.
So the right clip isn't about the length of your hair alone. It is about how much hair you put into the clip.
Two questions to ask yourself
- How much hair do you want to hold? All of it in one twist, or just a section?
- How thick is it? Thick hair takes up more room inside the clip than fine hair of the same length.
A quick test: twist your hair up and hold it in your hand. If the twist fills your whole palm, go for a classic clip. If it is more like two fingers' worth, a midi is enough. Only clipping back a small section? A mini will do.
The sizes, one by one
Classic
About 10 cm long, with the most room inside. Made for thick or long hair and for putting all your hair up in one go, like the Moonstone Clip.
Midi
For shoulder-length hair, fine to medium hair, or a smaller, neater twist. Because it closes tighter around less hair, it slides less. Think of the Pearl Clip Midi.
Mini
For half-up styles, short hair or just the front sections. Small, light and easy to keep in your bag.
French clip
Not a claw at all, but a U-shaped pin that you slide through a twist or bun. It holds by tension rather than teeth, which gives a sleek, minimal look.
Three ways to wear it
- The classic twist. Gather your hair at the back, twist it upwards and clip it against your head. Teeth pointing down for more grip.
- The loose bun. Soft and low, with a few strands left out around your face. We show it step by step in how to style a loose bun.
- The half-up. Take the top section of your hair, twist it once and clip it back with a mini or midi.
Keeping it beautiful
All our clips are made from plant-based acetate. It stays beautiful for years if you keep it away from heat (think radiators, hot cars and styling tools) and wipe it now and then with a soft cloth. More in our care guide.
Questions we often get
Which claw clip is best for thick hair?
A classic claw clip. It has the most room inside and the widest grip, so it can close properly around a full twist.
Which claw clip is best for fine hair?
A midi or a mini. A smaller clip closes tighter around less hair, so it slips less during the day.
Can I wear a claw clip with short hair?
Yes. Use a mini to clip back a section or to make a small half-up.
Why does my claw clip keep slipping?
Most often the clip is too big for the amount of hair you put in it. Try a size smaller, or twist your hair a little tighter before you clip it.
