10 Claw Clip Hairstyles for Thick Hair That Actually Hold
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You twist your hair up, snap on a claw clip, and feel great for about ten minutes. Then you feel it slipping. By lunch, it’s hanging by a thread or has popped off completely.
If you have thick hair, it’s not you. Most claw clips simply aren’t built for that much weight. With the right clip and a couple of tricks, though, a claw clip can hold thick hair all day.
Claw clips slip in thick hair because the clip is too small, the teeth are too short or weak, or the hair is too smooth or heavy at the base. Choose a large clip (4 inches or more) with long, interlocking teeth and a strong spring. Then use styles that twist and lock the hair before clipping, like the French twist, the folded twist, or a half-up twist. Adding a small elastic underneath gives extra hold.
Below are 10 claw clip hairstyles for thick hair that stay in place, plus how to choose a clip that can actually handle your hair.
Why Claw Clips Slip in Thick Hair
- The clip is too small. It can’t close fully around a lot of hair.
- The teeth are too short. They sit on top of the hair instead of gripping into it.
- The spring is weak. Thick hair pushes it open.
- Your hair is very smooth or freshly washed. There’s nothing for the teeth to grip.
- The twist is loose. Loose hair shifts, and the clip slides with it.
How to Pick a Claw Clip for Thick Hair
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Size | Large or jumbo, 4 inches (10 cm) or bigger |
| Teeth | Long, interlocking teeth that reach deep into the hair |
| Spring | Strong metal spring that snaps shut firmly |
| Material | Sturdy acetate or durable plastic, not thin or flimsy |
| Grip | Matte or textured finish, or a non-slip design |
đź”— [AFFILIATE: Jumbo claw clip for thick hair (4″+)]
đź”— [AFFILIATE: Matte non-slip claw clips set]
3 Tricks That Make Any Clip Hold Better
- Add grip first. Spray a little texture spray or dry shampoo at the base where the clip will sit.
- Twist tightly. A firm twist locks the hair so the clip just holds it in place.
- Use a hidden elastic. Make a low ponytail or bun first, then clip over it. The elastic carries the weight.
đź”— [AFFILIATE: Texturizing spray]
đź”— [AFFILIATE: Strong no-snag hair elastics]
10 Claw Clip Hairstyles for Thick Hair
1. Classic French Twist
The most secure claw clip style. Gather your hair into a low ponytail (no elastic), twist it upward tightly, fold the ends down into the twist, and clip vertically along the twist.
- Why it holds: The twist locks the hair, and the vertical clip grips the whole length.
- Best for: Medium to long thick hair
2. Folded Twist (The “Taco”)
Twist your hair, fold it up in half against the back of your head, and clip horizontally across the fold.
- Why it holds: Folding doubles the hair, giving the teeth more to grip.
- Best for: Long thick hair
3. Low Ponytail + Clip Combo
Make a low ponytail with an elastic, twist it into a loose bun, then clip over the bun. The elastic does the heavy lifting.
- Why it holds: The clip isn’t carrying the full weight.
- Best for: Very thick or heavy hair
4. Half-Up Twist
Take the top half of your hair, twist it back, and clip it at the crown. You only clip half the hair, so it stays put easily.
- Why it holds: Less hair means less weight on the clip.
- Best for: All lengths of thick hair
5. Double Claw Clip
Split your hair into two sections, twist each one up, and secure with two medium clips, one above the other.
- Why it holds: The weight is split between two clips.
- Best for: Extra-thick or long hair
đź”— [AFFILIATE: Medium claw clips (2-pack)]
6. Low Twisted Chignon
Twist your hair at the nape into a tight, low knot and clip over it horizontally. Polished enough for work or dinner.
- Why it holds: A low position puts less pull on the clip.
- Best for: Medium to long thick hair
7. Messy Twisted Updo
Twist your hair up loosely, clip, then pull out a few face-framing pieces. If a little slips, it still looks intentional.
- Why it holds: Texture spray first adds grip.
- Best for: Wavy or textured thick hair
8. Side-Swept Low Clip
Sweep your hair to one side, twist it, and clip low behind your ear. Romantic and comfortable for long days.
- Best for: Long thick hair
9. Braid + Claw Clip
Braid your hair, fold the braid up against your head, and clip it. Braids grip better than loose hair, so the clip holds extra well.
- Why it holds: The braid creates texture and structure.
- Best for: Long thick hair
10. Half-Up Bun With Clip
Twist the top section into a small bun at the crown and secure it with a mini claw clip. Cute, quick, and very secure.
- Best for: Medium to long thick hair
đź”— [AFFILIATE: Mini claw clips set]
Claw Clip Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a small clip on thick hair. It will slide every time.
- Clipping loose, untwisted hair. Twist first, always.
- Clipping very high. High clips carry more weight and slip more. Low and mid placements hold better.
- Clipping silky, freshly washed hair without texture spray.
- Wearing the clip too tight every day. It can stress your hair. Switch styles often.
FAQ
What size claw clip is best for thick hair? A large or jumbo clip, around 4 inches (10 cm) or bigger, with long, interlocking teeth.
How do I make a claw clip stay in thick hair? Add texture spray, twist your hair tightly, and clip vertically along the twist. A hidden elastic underneath adds extra hold.
Are claw clips bad for thick hair? No. They’re often gentler than tight elastics because they don’t pull or crease as much. Avoid clamping too tight.
Can I sleep with a claw clip? It’s not comfortable and can snap. Use a silk scrunchie or loose braid at night instead.
Why does my claw clip keep breaking? Thin plastic clips can’t handle heavy hair. Choose a sturdy acetate clip with a strong metal spring.
The Bottom Line
Claw clips can hold thick hair all day if you choose the right one: large, sturdy, with long teeth and a strong spring. Add texture, twist tightly, and try secure styles like the French twist, folded twist, or ponytail-and-clip combo. No more slipping, no more popping off by lunch.
