The History of Claw Clips: From Retro to Runway
Claw clips have made a serious comeback in recent years, taking their place as a must-have accessory for effortless hairstyles. But while these versatile clips might seem like a modern hair tool, they have a rich history that spans decades. In this post, we’ll dive into the origins of the claw clip, its rise in fashion, and how it became a staple in today’s hair accessory lineup.
Bear's Meadow Matte Claw Clip 4-Packs Shop the Above Photo
The Birth of the Claw Clip
The claw clip, sometimes known as a "jaw clip" or "butterfly clip," was invented in the late 1980s by an Italian inventor named Giulio Cesare. As a hairstylist himself, Cesare sought to create a practical hair accessory that would securely hold hair in place without the need for bobby pins or elastics. His invention featured interlocking prongs or “teeth” that would grip the hair firmly, creating a simple and secure updo. The unique design allowed users to twist their hair up quickly while maintaining a comfortable hold.
90s and Early 2000s: The First Claw Clip Boom
In the 1990s, claw clips surged in popularity, largely due to the rise of casual hairstyles and the growing demand for easy, on-the-go accessories. The clips became an iconic symbol of the era, seen on celebrities, in teen magazines, and worn by everyday people alike. From big, colorful plastic clips to smaller metallic versions, claw clips were available in a wide variety of sizes and styles to suit any look.
Alicia Silverstone in Clueless, 1995
The claw clip was beloved for its versatility. It could be used to hold all types of hair – long, short, thick, or thin – and worked for both formal and casual occasions. Women wore them to work, to the gym, and even to red carpet events.
Lisa Kudrow in Friends, 1995
The Claw Clip Decline
As with many fashion trends, the early 2000s saw a decline in the popularity of the claw clip. Hairstyles became sleeker, and many opted for more polished, controlled looks using straighteners, elastics, or smaller accessories. For a time, claw clips were seen as a relic of the 90s – fun and nostalgic, but not necessarily stylish. Many people stashed them away, only using them for quick fixes around the house.
Bear's Meadow Matte Claw Clip in ChocoVanilla Shop the Look
The Claw Clip Resurgence
Fast forward to the 2020s, and the claw clip has made a major resurgence, thanks in large part to the revival of 90s and Y2K fashion. Gen Z, social media influencers, and celebrities have helped catapult the claw clip back into the spotlight, embracing its retro charm and practicality.
The new wave of claw clips comes in all shapes and sizes, from oversized clips to chic, minimalist designs. Many modern versions feature trendy materials like tortoiseshell, gold, and translucent acrylics, giving the clips a fresh, updated look. Designers have also embraced the claw clip, with luxury brands like Balmain and Gucci offering their own high-end versions.
This renewed popularity can also be attributed to the growing desire for effortless beauty. With many people embracing a more natural, laid-back approach to style, claw clips fit perfectly into a world where easy, low-maintenance hairstyles are the goal.
Bear's Meadow Y2K Metal Star Claw Clips Shop the Look
Why We Love Claw Clips Today
One of the reasons claw clips have stood the test of time is their ability to work for almost any hair type or occasion. Whether you’re running errands, heading to a formal event, or just need a quick solution for a messy hair day, claw clips provide an easy, stylish fix.
At Bear’s Meadow, we offer a range of claw clips to suit every style. Whether you love the nostalgia of our colorful 90s-inspired clips or prefer something more modern and minimalist, there’s a claw clip for you.
Bear's Meadow Yin-Yang Acetate Claw Clip Shop the Look
Bear's Meadow Large Single Summer Flower Claw Clip in Red Shop the Look
Final Thoughts
The claw clip has evolved over the decades, going from a simple, functional hair tool to a beloved fashion accessory. Its enduring popularity proves that the best trends never truly go out of style—they just get reinvented for a new generation.
Ready to embrace the claw clip craze? Check out our Claw Clip Collection at Bear’s Meadow and find the perfect clip for your next effortlessly chic hairstyle.
