how to use hair clips

how to use hair clips

Mastering the Art of Hair Clips: A Comprehensive Guide

Hair clips, seemingly simple accessories, are actually versatile tools that can elevate your hairstyle from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek updo, a casual look, or a playful twist, mastering the art of hair clip usage can significantly enhance your styling capabilities.

This guide will delve into the world of hair clips, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of their different types, techniques for using them effectively, and tips for achieving various hairstyles.

Understanding the Different Types of Hair Clips

The first step to mastering hair clips is recognizing the vast array of options available. Each type serves a specific purpose, making it crucial to choose the right tool for your desired style.

1. Claw Clips

These are your go-to clips for creating quick and effortless updos. They come in various sizes and colors, offering a wide range of stylistic choices.

Advantages: Strong hold, versatility for various hair lengths and textures, ease of use.

Best for: Half-updos, messy buns, high ponytails, securing thick or long hair.

2. Barrettes

Known for their decorative appeal, barrettes come in an abundance of styles, from classic to trendy.

Advantages: Add a touch of elegance, come in various colors and designs, suitable for both formal and casual occasions.

Best for: Adding a touch of style to braids, securing bangs, or complementing an updo.

3. Bobby Pins

These small but mighty clips are essential for any hairstyling toolkit. They are primarily used to secure sections of hair, create intricate designs, and hold bobby pins in place.

Advantages: Secure hold, invisible in most hairstyles, versatile for various styling needs.

Best for: Securing braids, updos, creating intricate hair designs, adding volume, holding sections of hair in place.

4. Banana Clips

These large, curved clips are ideal for creating smooth, elegant styles, often seen in vintage hairstyles.

Advantages: Excellent for creating sleek, polished styles, hold hair securely, minimal damage to hair.

Best for: Creating half-updos, securing large sections of hair, holding hair in place during sleep.

5. Hair Elastics

Though not technically clips, hair elastics are integral to many hairstyles. They come in various materials, colors, and sizes, offering versatility for different needs.

Advantages: Secure hold, versatile for various hairstyles, comfortable for all-day wear.

Best for: Ponytails, braids, securing hair sections, creating buns.

Mastering Hair Clip Techniques

Knowing which type of hair clip to use is only the first step. Mastering the right techniques ensures your chosen style stays put and looks its best.

1. The Power of Sectioning

For most styles, dividing your hair into sections is key. This allows for even distribution of clips and helps to prevent tangles.

Use a comb or your fingers to create clean sections, especially when working with thick or long hair.

Secure each section with a clip before moving to the next.

Unclip sections gradually as you work through your hairstyle.

2. The Art of Placement

The placement of your clips significantly affects the final look of your hairstyle.

Claw Clips: Place them near the base of your hair, ensuring they are securely fastened.

Barrettes: Use them strategically to add visual interest and hold hair in place.

Bobby Pins: Insert them at a slight angle to create a secure hold. Secure them by crossing two pins to create a more robust grip.

Banana Clips: Place them at the base of your hair, ensuring they are centered and fully secured.

3. Taming Frizz and Flyaways

Hair clips can also be used to tame unruly strands and create a polished look.

Smooth Hair: Before using clips, apply a smoothing serum or hairspray to tame frizz and flyaways.

Use Bobby Pins: Secure any flyaways with bobby pins before using a larger clip.

4. Achieving Various Styles

Now that you understand the basics, let’s explore some popular hairstyles you can achieve with different types of hair clips.

Classic Updos:

High Ponytail: Secure a high ponytail with a hair elastic and wrap a hair tie or barrette around the base for a polished finish.

Sleek Bun: Gather your hair into a low bun and secure it with a claw clip or a banana clip.

French Twist: Gather your hair to the side and twist it inwards, securing the ends with a bobby pin.

Casual Styles:

Half-Up Half-Down: Gather the top section of your hair and secure it with a barrette or a claw clip.

Messy Bun: Gather your hair into a loose bun and secure it with a claw clip.

Braids: Secure the ends of your braids with bobby pins or hair elastics.

Creative Styles:

Side Swept Hair: Create a side part and use a barrette or a claw clip to secure the larger section of hair.

Hair Accessories: Use hair clips as decorative elements, adding a touch of flair to your hairstyle.

Essential Tips for Using Hair Clips

Choose the Right Size and Type: Select hair clips that are suitable for your hair length, thickness, and desired style.

Be Gentle: Avoid pulling or tugging on your hair when applying clips.

Use Hairspray: Apply hairspray to your hairstyle after using clips to ensure it stays in place.

Store Properly: Store your hair clips in a clean, dry place to prevent damage.

A Table of Hair Clip Types and Their Applications:

Mastering the art of using hair clips is a skill that can unlock a world of stylish possibilities. From quick and easy updos to intricate designs, the right knowledge and techniques can transform your hair from ordinary to extraordinary. Remember, practice makes perfect, so experiment with different clips and styles to discover what works best for you.