Claw clips are making a massive comeback in modern fashion, but their place in history raises an intriguing question: Are they a 90s relic or a 2000s trend? These iconic accessories have been spotted everywhere, from high-end runways to Instagram feeds, but their roots trace back to both decades. Let’s take a closer look at the claw clip’s timeline and how it evolved into the beloved hair accessory we see today.
The 90s: The Claw Clip’s First Rise to Fame
The claw clip first became popular in the 90s, taking centre stage as the go-to hair accessory for the era. Back then, the chunky, bold design of the clip was a symbol of practicality and style. Everyone from casual beachgoers to fashion icons used claw clips to hold their hair in place while creating effortless, “messy chic” looks.
The iconic “half-up, half-down” hairstyle was one of the most popular looks, often styled with a claw clip. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Sarah Jessica Parker, and the Spice Girls were frequently sporting the versatile clip, making it a must-have accessory. The claw clip’s simplicity and functionality made it a staple in any 90s wardrobe.
The 2000s: Claw Clips as an Evolution of Style
While the 90s were about the introductory, functional claw clip, the 2000s saw the accessory transform sleek. The 2000s brought a more refined and varied range of designs, with claw clips becoming more than just a tool to manage hair. They became a statement piece, often paired with trendy, glitzy outfits and styled to perfection for a more polished look.
In the early 2000s, claw clips were seen in various sizes, shapes, and colours, evolving into chic accessories that complemented a range of hairstyles. Adding rhinestones, metallic finishes, and clear acrylics made them more fashion-forward. The rise of celebrities like Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian, who often sported claw clips with their perfectly styled hair, helped to elevate the accessory from an essential tool to a coveted fashion item.
Claw Clips Today: A Perfect Blend of Both Decades
Fast-forward to today, claw clips are experiencing a significant revival, borrowing elements from the 1990s and 2000s. The chunky, oversized clips that once defined the 1990s are now being reimagined with modern materials and a touch of elegance. Today’s claw clips are often made from eco-friendly materials like acetate or recycled plastic, giving them a contemporary edge while maintaining the original, functional design.
Fashion influencers and celebrities have embraced the return of claw clips, styling them in creative ways that bridge the best of both decades. The “effortless” 90s look with loose, textured waves is paired with the sophisticated 2000s vibe of polished, sleek updos. The claw clip can elevate any hairstyle with minimal effort, whether wearing a simple bun or a voluminous ponytail.
Claw Clips in Modern Hair Trends
The beauty of the claw clip lies in its versatility, which is why it remains relevant in today’s fashion world. Claw clips have adapted to suit current hair trends, from sleek and polished looks to messy, textured waves, unlike other fleeting trends. Their ability to create chic updos, beachy textures, or retro-inspired hairstyles makes them timeless accessories that can effortlessly shift between decades.
Influencers and celebrities are once again bringing claw clips to the forefront, mixing 90s nostalgia with a more refined 2000s touch. From Paris Hilton’s iconic red carpet looks to today’s TikTok stars, the claw clip is no longer just a practical tool—it’s a staple of contemporary hair fashion.
A Timeless Trend That Transcends Decades
So, are claw clips 90s or 2000s? The answer is both. They embody the best of both decades: the practicality and boldness of the 90s combined with the sleek sophistication of the 2000s. Claw clips prove that some trends are timeless as they continue to make a comeback in fashion today. Whether you want to channel a retro vibe or keep it sleek and modern, the claw clip is the accessory that fits perfectly in any era.
Incorporating a claw clip into your daily routine isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about embracing a classic accessory that combines style and functionality effortlessly.
