One thing’s for sure, you can never go wrong with braids. “Braids are a fun and versatile hairstyle that can be worn casually or formally,” says Ogle School Cosmetologist & Beauty Educator, Stanley Nolan. “It’s a great protective style that lasts long for girls with natural, extra curly hair.”
And, even with braids, sometimes you want to stay on trend—so why not add a claw clip? The accessory adds a level of chicness to your styles while you’re running errands—conveniently keeping strands out of your face.
Furthermore, to aid the clip with holding everything in place, Tukia Allen, a master cosmetologist and founder of Studio Bold Salon, suggests picking out products based on the texture and density. “For thicker, coarser hair you could use a clay pomade, hair wax, or a paste which will provide a stronger hold, giving definition to the braid,” says Allen. “For thinner, finer hair you could use a gel, oil-based pomade, foam, or cream which will provide a strong hold while making the braids look shiny and nourished.”
Below, you’ll find five ways to style your braids with a claw clip.
Ponytail
Start by gathering your hair as if you’re making a regular ponytail. You can position it high, mid-level, or low, depending on your preference. Twist the ponytail a couple of times to tighten it, then place the claw clip over the base to secure it. If your hair is long, let the ends fall over the clip for that classic ponytail look. Nolan recommends using the Luxy Hair’s Coastal Shell Claw Clip to “place it over the base of your ponytail.”
Half-Up, Half-Down
Stanley notes that you can follow the same steps as the ponytail, but only use the top section of your hair. You can use the laxizar Claw Clip to clip it in place while leaving the rest of your hair down.
Modified French Twist
Allen recommends gathering all your hair at the bottom of your neck. “Hold the base with one hand and twist the length of your hair upwards, coiling it tightly against the back of your head,” says Allen. “Lift the twisted section and tuck the ends under the twist or leave them sticking out for a more casual look.” Secure it with the LuSeren Claw Clip vertically over the twist.
Messy Bun
Nolan recommends gently tugging on the braid to add volume. You can take the Scünci Play Open Rectangle Claw Clip and place it over the base of your ponytail. “Make sure it sits securely in the middle of your head.” You can grab the bottom of your braids, folding them over the claw clip, depending on the style. “Open the clip slightly and tuck in the remaining length of the braid or braids underneath the clip,” says Nolan. “Adjust any loose hair for a finished look.”
Double Bun
Allen recommends sectioning the hair in a half up half down manner and using a hair tie in each section to create ponytails. “Take the upper ponytail and lift upwards placing a claw clip at the base,” says Allen. “The top ponytail should now hang over it.” You can use Pattern Beauty Claw Clip to create this hairstyle. You can fan the ponytail out and tuck the ends into the bottom of the claw clip, creating a top bun.
