Banana clips, the iconic hair accessory of the 1980s, are back in style and more versatile than ever. These curved clips with comb-like teeth and hinged edges are perfect for keeping your hair stylishly tied up while adding volume, texture, and flair. Whether you’re looking to keep cool during summer or want to elevate your everyday look, banana clips can help you achieve effortless elegance.
From half-updos to intricate braids and buns, here’s a detailed guide to 20 stunning hairstyles using banana clips that will transform your tresses.
1. Simple Half Updo

This timeless hairstyle is perfect for everyday wear and takes just minutes to create.
- How to Achieve: Start by backcombing the crown to add volume. Then, separate the top half of your hair and secure it with a banana clip at the back. This style keeps the front strands away from your face while allowing the rest of your hair to flow naturally.
- Best For: Voluminous, long hair.
2. Half Updo with Curls

Add a touch of elegance by incorporating curls into your half-updo.
- How to Achieve: Secure the top half of your hair with a banana clip. Use a curling iron to create bouncy curls at the ends of your loose hair. This combination of structure and softness is ideal for casual outings or semi-formal events.
3. Messy Ponytail

This modern twist on the classic ponytail is perfect for creating the illusion of fuller hair.
- How to Achieve: Use a curling iron to create messy curls throughout your hair. Gather all your hair into a ponytail slightly above the nape of your neck and secure it with a banana clip. Finish with hairspray to hold the style in place.
- Pro Tip: Ideal for those with thin hair who want added volume.
4. Braided Half Updo

Incorporate a French braid for a chic, accessorized look.
- How to Achieve: Part your hair down the middle and create two small French braids on either side of your head. Pull the tails of the braids back and secure them with a banana clip along with the rest of your hair. Add disheveled waves to the bottom for extra texture.
5. Half-Knotted Updo

This trendy hairstyle is surprisingly simple to master.
- How to Achieve: Take the front section of your hair, twist it, and tie it into a double knot at the back. Secure the knot with a banana clip and curl the ends of your hair for a voluminous finish.
6. Long Ponytail

Showcase your luscious locks with this sleek and stylish ponytail.
- How to Achieve: Wash and air-dry your hair to enhance its natural texture. Use a large banana clip to secure your hair into a ponytail at the back of your head. Fluff it up with a brush for added volume.
7. Overlap Half Updo

A decorative banana clip makes this hairstyle perfect for formal occasions.
- How to Achieve: Backcomb your hair at the crown for volume. Take a one-inch section of hair from both sides, overlap them at the back, and secure them with a banana clip.
8. Messy High Bun

This casual yet stylish bun is perfect for a laid-back vibe.
- How to Achieve: Pull your hair upward as if creating a high ponytail. Twist the hair tightly, roll it into a bun, and secure it with a banana clip. Leave the ends loose for a relaxed, nonchalant look.
9. Finger Waves

Create intricate finger waves for a vintage-inspired hairstyle.
- How to Achieve: Start with freshly washed hair and apply hair mousse. Use your fingers to shape the front strands into an S-shape design. Secure the sections with banana clips while blow-drying to set the waves.
10. Horizontal Banana Clip

Switch things up by using the banana clip horizontally for a sleeker look.
- How to Achieve: Instead of placing the clip vertically, secure your half-updo horizontally at the back for a polished, professional appearance.
11. Loose Ponytail

This classic style adds volume and flair to your ponytail.
- How to Achieve: Pull all your hair back and secure it with a banana clip. The result is a voluminous ponytail that resembles a horse’s mane.
- Quick Tip: For short hair, try a side ponytail with a banana clip for a cute and playful look.
12. French Twist

Achieve sophistication with this elegant bun style.
- How to Achieve: Pull your hair into a loose ponytail and twist it clockwise. Fold the ponytail in half, tuck the ends under, and secure with bobby pins. Slide the banana clip from the bottom to lock the style in place.
13. Classic Updo
This timeless updo works beautifully for medium to long hair.
- How to Achieve: Pull your hair back and secure it with a banana clip. Allow the hair to fall naturally for a graceful, effortless look.
14. Modern Banana Updo

Channel a Rihanna-inspired fauxhawk with this bold updo.
- How to Achieve: Gather your hair tightly at the top of your head using a banana clip. Arrange your curls around the clip to cover it completely. Secure with bobby pins for a sleek finish.
15. Banana Braid
Combine braids with a banana clip for a unique hairstyle.
- How to Achieve: Create a loose French braid from the crown to the nape of your neck. Insert the banana clip so the end of the braid sticks out, and loosen the top section slightly to hide the clip.
16. Banana Clip Bun

Transform your ponytail into a doughnut-like bun.
- How to Achieve: Use a small banana clip to gather your hair into a ponytail. Fan the hair out in a 360-degree arrangement and roll sections of hair away from the center, securing them near the base with bobby pins.
17. Side Ponytail

This chic side ponytail is perfect for showcasing fancy clips.
- How to Achieve: Gather all your hair to one side, comb it neatly, and secure it with a decorative banana clip.
18. Shoshanna Bun

This flipped-over bun is both fun and stylish.
- How to Achieve: Flip your hair over and clip it from the hairline with a banana clip. Twist the remaining hair, roll it into a bun, and secure with bobby pins.
19. Braided Bun
Elevate your updo with multiple braids.
- How to Achieve: Secure your hair at the top with a banana clip. Separate it into sections and braid each section. Wrap the braids around the clip to form a bun and secure the ends with bobby pins.
20. Braided Ponytail

Perfect for thick hair, this style combines braids and a banana clip.
- How to Achieve: Divide your hair into sections and braid each one. Gather all the braids and secure them with a banana clip. Add colorful elastics at the ends of the braids for a pop of personality.
Why Choose Banana Clips?
- No Hair Loss: Unlike rubber bands or scrunchies, banana clips don’t pull out hair when removed.
- Versatility: They work for various hairstyles, from casual to formal.
- Summer-Friendly: Keep your hair off your neck and face during hot weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size banana clip should I use?
Opt for a small clip if you have fine hair and a larger one for thick hair. - How do I prevent slipping?
Apply dry shampoo before styling or a setting spray afterward.
Banana clips are a versatile and stylish way to elevate your hair game. Experiment with these looks to find the ones that best suit your personality and occasion!