I've clipped up hair backstage at shows, on red carpets, and on set at 5am more times than I can count — and the claw clip is still the fastest way to make hair look intentional in under a minute. Here are the five looks I reach for most, whether I'm working on a client or just running late myself.
1. The Sleek Half-Up Twist
Gather the top section of hair, twist it upward toward the crown, and secure with a medium clip. The twist adds grip so the clip doesn't slide, and it instantly frames the face. This is my go-to for client meetings and press days — polished, but took ten seconds.
2. The Undone Low Bun
Twist a low ponytail loosely, fold it under itself, and clamp a larger clip over the fold. Leave a few face-framing pieces out. This is the look I use most for red carpet backstage touch-ups when we need something that reads elegant on camera but isn't stiff.
3. The Half-Up Claw with a Braid Tuck
Section the crown, do a quick three-strand braid, then tuck the braid up and over before clipping. It reads more "done" than a plain half-up without adding any extra time.
4. The Full Updo
For thicker or longer hair, twist the entire ponytail from root to tip before clipping vertically at the crown. The tighter the twist, the more volume and hold you get — this is the one I use most on set for all-day wear.
5. The Face-Framing Clip-Back
Simplest of all: clip back just the front sections, leaving the rest down. Great for second-day hair or when you want texture to stay visible.
The clip matters as much as the technique
Even the best styling trick falls apart with a weak clip — that's exactly why we built the Loxx Hair Inc claw clip collection. Reinforced spring tension and wider teeth mean these looks actually hold, whether you're heading to brunch or a 12-hour shoot day. My personal favourite for everyday wear is the Triple Flower Clip in Blushell — strong grip, doesn't dent the hair.
— Chad
