Western Claw Clips Ride Back into the Spotlight

The Comeback of Western Claw Clips

Western claw clips have made a major comeback in recent years. These fun and eye-catching hair accessories conjure up imagery of the Wild West, helping wearers channel their inner cowgirl. With trends cycling in and out of fashion, 2023 is proving to be the year of the western claw clip.

The History of Claw Clips

The claw clip first emerged in the 1980s and 90s, when women favored large, attention-grabbing hair accessories. The recognizable half-moon shape with gripping "teeth" made them easy and convenient to put hair up in a snap. Though they fell out of mainstream popularity in the early 2000s, western-themed claw clips are riding back into the spotlight.

Why Western Claw Clips are Trending

Western motifs like cow prints and cowboy boots have been making appearances in fashion lately. As people enter what some call the "western core" era, these down-home patterns and textures speak to renewed interest in Americana style. Claw clips follow suit with their rustic cowboy associations.

At the same time, Y2K style is seeing a major revival. The cowboy claw clip epitomizes the flashy, ostentatious hair trends of the late 90s and early 2000s. As cropped tank tops and low rise jeans circle back into view, nostalgic accessories like western hair clips are along for the ride.

The Practicality of Claw Clips

Beyond their bold aesthetic, the practical perks of claw clips give them lasting power. These hassle-free workhorses keep hair neatly held back while making a visual statement. Their pinch design provides a strong, secure grip without tugging or snagging hair like some scrunchies and ties.

Claw clips also lend themselves well to various hair textures and lengths. Those with thick manes rely on their sturdy grip, while people rocking bobs or lobs may accentuate their cut with an attention-grabbing western accessory. Even the trendiest Gen Zers and Millennials revisit the iconic claw for its unfussy utility.

Eye-Catching Western Claw Clip Designs

From cow prints to cacti, leather to cowhide, today’s western claw clips encompass an array of materials and designs. Here are some of the most popular styles you’ll see on your feeds and out on the streets.

Cow Print Claw Clips

No western motif gets more iconic than the black-and-white cow print. These bovinely inspired hair clips come coated in splashes of high contrast cowhide. Sometimes they feature polka dots or Funky visible print designs rather than traditional Holstein patches.

For understated cow vibes, keep an eye out for beige and white claws with faint cow spotting. You’ll also see some glittery cow print options for that extra punch of rhinestone cowboy energy.

Southwestern Claw Clips

For south-of-the-border flair, western claw clips get decked out with motifs like cactuses, Aztec prints, and chili peppers. These deliver rugged desert style with extra spice. Materials may include wood, clay, leather and cowhide for organic texture.

Some especially playful designs incorporate rainbow colors and folk art patterns. These channel free-spirited boho energy with a distinctive taste of the American southwest.

Rustic Western Claw Clips

Rustic western claws employ weathered materials like wood, metal, and leather. Aged brass, copper and silver finishes imbue vintage cowboy appeal. Mixing metallic accents with natural wood grain and leather creates an appealingly raw, rough-around-the-edges look.

Understated cowboy hats, boots and spur motifs add Gone down-home flair. These earthy rustic claw clips perfectly complement prairie dresses, rancher flannels and handcrafted leather bags.

Ways to Style Western Claw Clips

Half the fun of western claws lies in the festive spirit they lend any outfit. These conversations starter lend themselves seamlessly to everything from music festivals to bachelorette parties. They make It easy to client festival chic or cowgirl glam in an instant.

Western Claw Clips with Florals

Play up spring and summer vibes by pairing cow print claws with floral prints. Contrast bold black-and-white spots with bright, punchy blossoms and meadow greens. You can also opt for a double dose of flowers by matching the clips to a floral headband.

Denim Looks with Claw Clips

Nothing screams cowboy style quite like trusty denim. For weekend music festivals or casual daily wear, break out western claw clips with your favorite cutoffs, denim jackets and retro 70s style. Distressed details, patchwork and iconic Wrangler branding complete the down-home look.

Western Claw Clips with Festival Fashion

Bust out western hair clips to underscore bohemian looks perfect for outdoor gatherings. Pair printed maxi dresses or loose tie-dye separates with rustic leather and cowhide claws. Wood or clay claws with Aztec and Navajo motifs bring extra southwestern flavor.

The staying power of western claw clips

As yeehaw style enjoys its time in the spotlight, western claw clips offer easy, eye-catching ways to jump on the trend. Their simultaneously nostalgic and innovative vibe powers the comeback, while convenient functionality gives them lasting potential. Not just a passing fad, the cowgirl hair clip presents the perfect marriage of style and substance.

FAQs

What makes western claw clips different from regular claw clips?

Western claw clips incorporate rustic cowboy-inspired motifs like cow prints, desert cactuses, ranch materials, and southwestern patterns. They embrace bold colors and textures for an eye-catching western aesthetic.

How do you style western claw clips?

These versatile accessories complement everything from floral dresses to cutoffs and tie-dye. For a cool cowgirl vibe, pair them with denim pieces like jackets and retro shorts. You can also match cow print claws to bandanas and other western patterns.

Are western claw clips still in style for 2023?

As yeehaw motifs explode, western claw clips ride the wave of renewed popularity. The recent comeback of the claw clip itself also fuels the trend, thanks to 90s and Y2K nostalgia and the practical appeal. Their unique blend of style and function give western hair claws staying power.

Where can I buy trendy western claw clips?

Many major retailers like Target and Claire's carry western claw clips alongside their broader range of hair accessories. You can also explore specialty online boutiques for one-of-a-kind artisan clips incorporating custom details like carved horns and stamped leather.