Hair Clips for Women: Every Type Explained (and When to Use Each)

Catcher, clutcher, barrette, snap clip, duckbill… Shopping for hair clips can feel like learning a new language. And when you pick the wrong one, you find out fast: it slips, it pinches, or it simply can’t hold your hair.

Here’s the good news. There are really only eight types you need to know, and each one has a clear job. Claw clips hold the most hair. Barrettes and snap clips keep small sections neat. Bobby pins do the hidden work. Bows and decorative pins are there to make it look pretty.

The eight clips worth knowing

1. Claw clips (catchers)

If you only own one clip, make it this one. Twist your hair, clamp the clip across the twist, and you’re out the door. Big clips for thick or long hair, small ones for half-up sections. Our claw clip guide goes through sizes properly.

2. Metal catchers

Same idea as a claw clip, just slimmer and dressier, often with pearls, flowers or a gold finish. They come into their own at weddings, dinners and Eid. Because they’re slimmer, they suit a medium amount of hair rather than a very thick twist. Take a look at the metal catcher range.

3. Barrettes

A flat clip that closes with a clasp. It holds a section of hair flat against your head, which is exactly what you want for a neat side parting or a half-up style. A pretty one also works like a bit of jewellery. Browse barrettes.

4. Snap clips

Those thin clips that click shut. They’re light, cheap and great for kids, and handy for keeping a fringe out of your eyes. They only hold a little hair, so don’t ask too much of them.

5. Alligator and duckbill clips

Long, narrow clips that stylists use for sectioning. The decorative ones are popular for children’s hairstyles. They grip well but can leave a crease if you wear them for hours.

6. Bobby pins

The unsung hero of almost every updo. They hold buns, tuck in braids and keep a dupatta or hijab exactly where it should be. Keep a full pack of black bobby pins somewhere you can find it.

7. Bow clips

A bow on a clip, pin or band. It’s the easiest way to make a plain ponytail look finished, and there are sizes for both grown-ups and little girls. See hair bows.

8. Decorative pins

Pins with pearls, flowers or a bit of sparkle. You only need two or three to lift a hairstyle for an event. Explore the hair pins collection.

Which clip suits your hair?

A quick safety note for parents: small clips and pins can be a choking hazard, so keep an eye on toddlers and choose larger, lighter pieces for very young children.

Everyday clips vs “occasion” clips

Day to day, comfort and grip win: a matte claw clip, a simple barrette, a few pins. For mehndi, weddings and Eid, a pearl catcher or a satin bow adds that bit of polish. Most of us end up with a few of each, and that’s exactly right.

How to make your clips last

• Don’t force a clip around more hair than it can handle. That’s what breaks springs and hinges.
• Avoid clipping soaking-wet hair.
• Wipe clips clean every so often and dry metal ones well.
• Keep them in a box or pouch so the teeth and decorations don’t snap.

Questions people often ask