Two popular hair accessories that make it easier to achieve an upswept style are thebananaandclaw clips.

Ahead, find all of their hair-clipping advice.

Meet the Experts

What Is a Banana Clip?

woman wearing blue floral claw clip

@emijayinc/@djerfavenue/ Instagram

A banana clip is a hair accessory that lives up to its name.

This hair accessory was particularly popular in the 1980s and1990s.

What Is a Claw Clip?

Claw and Banana Hair Clips

Byrdie

Claw clips were a staple hair accessory during the'90sandearly 2000s.

Plus, they are typically made of similar materials, such as plastic or metal.

However, there are notable differences in their design and usage.

It is versatile for securing hair in quick updos orhalf-up styles.

Joseph adds that banana clips are usually much slimmer and flatter than claw clips.

She recommends starting by opening the clip and separating the two hinged sides to style with a banana clip.

shut the clip securely, ensuring your hair is evenly positioned.

Joseph prefers the cascading ponytail method.

“kick off the banana clip and position it at the nape of your neck,” she says.

“Gather your hair upwards and wrap up the clip, securing all the hair within it.

This [approach] creates a beautiful, cascading effect.”

Joseph prefers to stick to quick and casual styling with claw clips.

“Gather your hair as if you are making a ponytail,” she explains.

Secure with the claw clip and pull some tendrils for a chic, effortless look."

The Final Takeaway

While similar in function, banana and claw clips are quite different.

Regardless, there’s no “wrong” choice.

It’s all about deciding which suits your hair punch in and desired look best.