The resurgence of the claw clip is more than a fleeting trend; it has become a practical, stylish staple in modern styling kits. Many people rediscovered this simple accessory thanks to nostalgic nods from the ’90s and celebrity sightings, and editors have been putting dozens of options through their paces to determine which perform best across different hair types. From budget-friendly basics to ornate pieces that look like jewelry, the market now offers a clip for nearly every need.
Below you’ll find a curated selection of standout options and clear guidance on choosing the right piece for your routine. Each recommendation reflects real testing by beauty editors, including notes on grip, material quality, size range and aesthetic appeal. Expect a mix of everyday workhorses, luxe statement pieces and sport-ready clips built to survive intense movement and sweat.
Top tested picks and why they stand out
RPZL earned the top spot in Cosmopolitan’s Holy Grail Beauty Awards for good reason: its clips combine an elegant finish with reliable function. Testers praised the variety of colors and patterns, and editors reported that the clips keep styles secure without frequent readjustment. If you value a piece that doubles as both a functional tool and a coordinated accessory, these are a go-to. Their balance of price and performance makes them an accessible investment for daily wear.
Emi Jay clips—famously popularized by influencers—are available in a wide range of motifs and sizes, including a smaller option labeled the Sweetheart Clip for shorter or finer hair. The brand’s large “Big Effing Clip” has become a ubiquitous item in beauty editors’ bags, lauded for its ability to contain long, thick hair while remaining chic. These pieces also work well as customizable gifts, with patterns that feel seasonal and elevated.
Machete targets anyone frustrated by flimsy drugstore clips; their construction is designed for maximum clamping power. Editors who need serious hold for heavy or highly textured hair found these clips unmatched when it comes to keeping hair in place for extended periods. Despite the industrial-strength grip, Machete still offers options in polished colors and tactile finishes so the accessory doesn’t sacrifice style for function.
Luxury, affordable and workout-friendly options
Lelet creates hair clips that blur the line between accessory and fine jewelry. Think gleaming metal bases, faux gemstones and pearl embellishments that transform a utilitarian item into a statement piece. Editors described these as sculptural objects more than simple clips—perfect for dressing up an outfit or for those who prefer to view hair hardware as part of their jewelry collection. The higher price reflects artisanal finishes and durability.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, The Hair Edit offers a minimalist, high-functioning clip that won editorial favor for being both affordable and versatile. Its simple palette and clean silhouette allow it to pair seamlessly with a wide range of looks, and testers found themselves reaching for it repeatedly for quick, polished styling. If you want a no-fuss option that reads sophisticated without the sticker shock, this is a reliable choice.
For movement-heavy routines, Alo designed clips specifically to withstand sweat and repeated use during exercise. These pieces are engineered to stay put during runs, yoga classes, and gym sessions without creating a painful crease or damaging hair. Editors who keep clips in their workout bags highlighted the convenience of quickly clipping hair to their sports bra or scrunching it out of the way during floor work, praising the clips’ resilience in active contexts.
Choosing the right clip for your hair
When deciding which claw clip to buy, start with your hair’s thickness and length. For dense or long hair, prioritize clips with a wide opening and strong spring mechanism—brands known for industrial hold perform best here. If your hair is fine or short, look for smaller sizes or designs with narrower teeth to avoid slippage. Pattern and finish matter too: tortoiseshell and neutral hues are wardrobe-friendly, while embellished pieces serve as instant focal points.
Care tips and styling notes
To keep any clip functioning well, avoid dropping it on hard surfaces and rinse off sweat or product residue as needed. Rotate through a few sizes in your bag so you’re prepared for different styles: a larger clip for full updos, a medium for half-ups, and a small option for flyaways or bangs. Treat ornate clips like hair jewelry—reserve them for special occasions if you want the embellishments to remain pristine longer.
Why trust the editors
The selections above reflect hands-on testing led by Jasmine Hyman, Cosmopolitan’s assistant beauty editor, who has sampled dozens of brands to determine which clips combine real-world performance with aesthetic appeal. Her reporting, together with input from other beauty editors, ensures these recommendations are rooted in wear-tested results rather than hype alone.
