Flowers, pearls, rhinestones and coloured stones: the hair clips for women gathered here are chosen for their decoration, sold singly or as part of a mixed accessory set. Length and fastening determine how much hair a clip will hold, so check both before you judge the finish. Measurements, material and closure type are listed on the product page.

Choose a decorative hair clip

Hair clips for women: three checks before you buy

Length, width and fastening come before looks. A short clip suits a half-up style; a longer one holds a fuller ponytail. Torn between two designs? Compare the stated length rather than judging by the photos.

Length, format and fastening

Worth checking before you add to basket
DetailWhat to look for
FormatSold singly or as part of a multi-piece set
SizeLength and width of the design
FasteningMechanism visible on the photos
FinishFlowers, pearls, rhinestones or stones

Decoration that works with your hair colour

A tone close to your own hair colour blends in, while a contrasting finish stands out. Pearls and rhinestones catch the light as you move, which is why one decorated clip usually carries a whole hairstyle on its own.

When a clip is not the right format

Slides and barrettes fasten flat against the hair rather than gathering it; if that is closer to what you need, our slides and barrettes are here.

A headband works the other way round. Instead of gathering hair, it pushes everything back off the face: see the rigid headbands worn pushed back.

Caring for a decorated clip

Clips travel badly when they are loose in a bag. The pearls catch on linings and the arms spring open, snagging whatever else is in there. Close each one and slip it into a small pouch or a zipped pocket. A dry cloth wipes away any styling residue once you are home.