Claw Clip Hairstyles: A Classic Revival for Timeless Glamour

Before: 2019

The claw clip, an iconic hair accessory that has graced hairstyles for decades, has seen a remarkable resurgence in popularity in recent years. Before 2019, however, this versatile tool was still underappreciated, its full potential yet to be fully realized.

A Brief History of the Claw Clip

The claw clip's origins can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1902, Marcell Wellen invented the "wave clip," a precursor to the modern claw clip, for use with his signature finger waves. Over the following decades, the clip evolved, with various iterations emerging and gaining popularity in the mid-century.

Types of Claw Clips

Claw clips come in a wide array of styles, materials, and sizes, each catering to specific hair types and styling needs.

• Classic Claw Clip: Made of plastic or metal, with interlocking teeth that grasp and hold hair securely.
• Banana Clip: A curved, elongated clip that offers a versatile and sophisticated hold.
• French Twist Clip: Designed to securely hold hair in a classic French twist.
• Decorative Claw Clip: Embellished with beads, crystals, or other decorative elements to add a touch of flair.

Claw Clip Hairstyles Before 2019

Before the claw clip's recent comeback, it was primarily used for practical purposes, keeping hair out of the way during activities or providing a simple hold for everyday styles. However, some popular hairstyles from the pre-2019 era utilized claw clips in more creative ways:

• The Half-Up, Half-Down: A classic and effortlessly chic look, where the top half of the hair is pulled back and secured with a claw clip, leaving the bottom half flowing loose.
• The French Twist: A timeless and elegant style that can be easily achieved using a claw clip to hold the hair in a secure twist at the nape of the neck.
• The Piled-Up Ponytail: A volumized and dramatic style where a ponytail is gathered and secured high on the head using a claw clip, giving the illusion of thicker and fuller hair.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

In 2016, actress Jennifer Lawrence attended the Oscars with her hair styled in a simple yet sophisticated half-up, half-down look secured with a sleek black claw clip. The result was an effortlessly chic and timeless style that highlighted the versatility of the accessory.

Lesson Learned: Claw clips can be used to elevate even the simplest hairstyles, adding a touch of elegance and polish.

Story 2:

In 2017, model Gigi Hadid was photographed on the streets of New York City wearing a casual yet stylish piled-up ponytail secured with a large tortoiseshell claw clip. The clip added a touch of retro glamour to her otherwise understated look.

Lesson Learned: Claw clips can be used to inject a touch of personality and style into everyday hairstyles.

Story 3:

In 2018, singer Dua Lipa wowed audiences with her performance at the Grammy Awards, her hair styled in a voluminous and dramatic French twist held in place by a large, crystal-embellished claw clip. The accessory complemented her bold and glamorous outfit, adding a touch of sparkle to her overall look.

Lesson Learned: Claw clips can be used to create showstopping hairstyles that are perfect for special occasions.

Effective Strategies for Using Claw Clips

To master the art of using claw clips effectively, consider the following strategies:

• Choose the Right Clip: Select a claw clip that is appropriate for your hair type and the desired hairstyle.
• Prep Your Hair: Before styling, brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots. This will ensure a smooth and even hold.
• Section Your Hair: For more complex hairstyles, section your hair into manageable parts to make styling easier.
• Secure with Confidence: When securing the clip, gently but firmly close the teeth around the hair to ensure a secure hold.

Tips and Tricks

• Add Volume: To create volume in the crown area, tease your hair slightly before securing with a claw clip.
• Control Flyaways: Use a small claw clip to hold back unruly flyaways or baby hairs for a polished look.
• Accessorize: Dress up your claw clips with ribbons, scarves, or other decorative elements for a personalized touch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Claw Clip Hairstyles

Half-Up, Half-Down

1. Brush your hair and separate the top half from the bottom half.
2. Secure the top half with a claw clip at the crown of your head.
3. Adjust the clip to ensure it is holding securely.
4. Style the bottom half of your hair as desired, such as leaving it loose, curling it, or braiding it.

French Twist

1. Brush your hair and gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
2. Twist the ponytail up and around the hair elastic.
3. Secure the twist with a French twist claw clip.
4. Adjust the clip to ensure it is holding securely.

Piled-Up Ponytail

1. Brush your hair and gather it into a high ponytail on top of your head.
2. Tease the hair at the roots to create volume.
3. Secure the ponytail with a large claw clip.
4. Adjust the clip to ensure it is holding securely and creating the desired height.

Conclusion

The claw clip is a versatile and timeless hair accessory that has returned with a vengeance in recent years. Before 2019, its potential was somewhat untapped, but with its resurgence, we have witnessed its ability to transform everyday hairstyles into works of art. By understanding the different types of claw clips, effective strategies, tips and tricks, and step-by-step guides, you can harness the power of this accessory to create countless glamorous and stylish looks.

Tables

Table 1: Claw Clip Types and Uses

Table 2: Claw Clip Hairstyles Before 2019

Table 3: Claw Clip Hair Accessory Market Statistics