Preparation

Here’s the fun thing about trends: They’re often cyclical. What was once all the rage a few decades ago is suddenly the piece of the moment—which is something you could say about claw clips. While these jaw-style pieces (they are held together with a flexible hinge and often feature combed teeth to enhance their grip) never truly went out of style (they were a ’90s mainstay!), they are certainly experiencing a modern-day revival. It’s easy to understand why: They make everyday updos so easy. Work them around a ponytail and you have an instant chignon-inspired style—or clip half your strands up for something a bit more effortless. Needless to say, these accessories are a must in your hair care kit, which is why we went ahead and curated some of the best-looking iterations on the market. Built to last, these claw clips meld function and form. You’ll have them for years—and be able to pull them out when they experience yet another resurgence down the road.

Best for Fine Hair: J. Crew Mini Claw Clip in Italian TortoiseBest Value Set: Censtar Matte Banana ClipsBest Curved: Kristin Ess Curved Claw Clip in CurvedSustainable: Emi Jay Big Effing Hair Clip in OasisBest Statement: Anthropologie Resin Claw Hair Clip Set