Level up your look with these easy, stylish ways to use clip-ins
Hair extensions have a way of unlocking possibilities. They take styles from “almost there” to full-on wow, adding volume, length, and texture that feels effortless. But what makes clip-in hair extensions the real MVP?
They’re easy to use, non-damaging, and endlessly versatile. You can add them for a night out, take them out before bed, and reuse them as often as you like. Whether you’re working with a pixie cut, shoulder-length lob, or long waves, hairstyles with clip-in hair extensions give you the freedom to switch things up whenever the mood strikes.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the best styles to try with clip-ins, from voluminous waves to braided crowns. Get ready to transform your look without the long-term commitment.
Soft waves with extra volume
There’s something universally flattering about soft waves. They sit right at that sweet spot between casual and polished, making them the go-to style for everything from weekend brunches to weddings. But getting those waves to look full, bouncy, and hold their shape all day? That’s where clip-in extensions come in.
Extensions not only add length, but they create the density you need for waves that don’t fall flat. This is especially helpful if you have fine or medium-textured hair that tends to lose shape by midday. By adding clip-ins, you’re giving your style more hair to work with, meaning more volume, more body, and longer-lasting waves.
Who does this work for?
– Shoulder-length to long hair
– Thin or fine hair that needs a volume boost
– Both middle and side parts
How to get the look
1. Start with dry hair. Apply a heat protectant to both your natural hair and the extensions.
2. Clip in the wefts. Place them underneath your natural layers, focusing on the lower half of your head for length and the crown for fullness.
3. Curl in sections. Use a curling iron or wand with a medium barrel (1 to 1.5 inches). Curl away from your face on both sides, alternating direction every other section to create a natural, tousled look.
4. Blend. Once all your hair is curled, let it cool completely before gently brushing through with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to soften the curls into waves.
5. Finish. Use a lightweight texturizing spray to hold the shape without making the hair stiff or sticky.
Pro tip: Extensions hold curl better than natural hair, so always curl your natural hair and extensions together to ensure a seamless blend.
Whether you’re styling for a night out or just want to elevate your everyday waves, clip-ins offer the extra body and bounce that make all the difference.
Braids that wow, and using extensions for fullness
Braids are one of those styles that look effortlessly cool, but let’s be honest, they aren’t always effortless to pull off. Especially if your natural hair is on the thinner side or you’re working with shorter layers. This is where clip-in extensions become your secret weapon. They help turn even the simplest braid into something substantial, full, and eye-catching.
When you add extensions to your braids, you’re giving the style extra body, which helps maintain its shape and prevents that skinny, uneven look at the ends.
Who does this work for?
– Medium to long hair, but works on shorter lengths with strategic placement
– Adding texture and volume to thin braids
– Occasions like weddings, festivals, or days when you want to elevate your look
Braided styles to try with clip-ins
Fishtail braid: Known for its intricate appearance, a fishtail braid looks even more striking when it’s full and voluminous. Extensions help you achieve that dramatic width and length.
Crown braid: Wrap a braid across the top of your head for a soft, halo effect. Extensions give you the volume to make it pop without feeling too tight or skimpy.
Side braid: A classic style that lets length and texture shine. Adding extensions keeps it full from top to bottom.
How to get the look
1. Prep your hair and extensions with a light texturizing spray to give everything grip.
2. Clip in the wefts where you’ll braid—usually along the back or sides, depending on the style. Place them in horizontal rows, keeping them below your parting sections.
3. Braid as usual, gently pulling the braid apart (called pancaking) to create fullness and softness.
4. Secure and finish with a flexible hold spray to keep it in place without making it stiff.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to mix textures—clip-ins add bulk, but you can also wave or curl them before braiding for a softer, dimensional look.
Braids with extensions give you that Instagram-worthy finish without the hours of practice or natural length. They hold their shape, stay full, and look polished all day.
The high ponytail upgrade
There’s a reason the high ponytail never goes out of style. It’s sleek, sophisticated, and a little playful all at once. But achieving that full, gravity-defying ponytail takes more than just an elastic band—especially if your natural hair lacks volume or length. Clip-ins make it easy to get that red-carpet ponytail without breaking a sweat.
Who does this work for?
– Almost any length (shoulder-length or longer gives the best base)
– Fine hair that needs lift and fullness
– Formal events, nights out, or when you want to feel a little extra put together
How to get the look
1. Clip in extensions upside down along the crown and sides of your head. This helps them lie flat and smoothly when you pull your hair up.
2. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, making sure the extensions are hidden beneath the top layers.
3. Secure with a strong elastic and gently tug at the top of your ponytail for added volume.
4. Wrap a small piece of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic and secure it with a bobby pin underneath.
5. Smooth flyaways with a bit of serum or a soft-bristle brush.
Pro tip: For an ultra-sleek finish, run a flat iron over the ponytail or add waves for a softer, voluminous effect.
Clip-ins give your ponytail the lift and length it needs to go from everyday to eye-catching.
Half-up, half-down with clip-ins
The half-up, half-down style is a staple for a reason. It strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and polished, letting you show off length while keeping hair out of your face. Adding clip-ins takes this classic look up a notch, ensuring the “down” section has the fullness and flow that makes the whole style feel more intentional.
Who does this work for?
– Most lengths (even extensions on short hair)
– Adding volume and structure without going full updo
– Everything from casual coffee dates to formal occasions
How to get the look
1. Clip in extensions at the lower half of your head, focusing on the sections that will remain down.
2. Gather the top section of your hair at the crown or just below, securing it with an elastic or clip. You can go sleek or leave a little volume at the roots.
3. Add extra detail by twisting, braiding, or creating a small bun with the top section.
4. Style the lower half with waves, curls, or leave it straight.
Pro tip: Place your clip-ins a bit lower than usual so they stay hidden under the top section.
This style offers flexibility. It’s soft, romantic, and polished, all in one.
Clip-ins on short hair? Yes, you can.
Extensions on short hair might seem tricky, but clip-ins make it easier than you’d think. Whether you have a bob, lob, or pixie, clip-ins can add volume, texture, or even length to play with new looks.
Who does this work for?
– Bobs, lobs, or pixies looking to experiment with fullness or length
– Trying out styles like long ponytails, beachy waves, or even updos on shorter cuts
How to get the look
1. Choose wefts that are close in length to your natural hair if you’re adding volume, or longer for a layered effect.
2. Clip in the wefts strategically—focus on the back and sides to avoid visible clips near the crown or hairline.
3. Blend the extensions by curling or waving both your natural hair and the clip-ins together.
4. Add texture with a bit of dry shampoo or texturizing spray to help blend the layers.
Pro tip: For pixie cuts, use smaller wefts or crown volumizers to add lift at the top without needing length.
Clip-ins give short hair the option to experiment without committing to a grow-out period.
Updos with hidden volume
Updos can sometimes fall flat—literally. Whether it’s a sleek chignon, a messy bun, or a French twist, clip-ins help create the hidden volume that makes these styles feel full and polished.
Who does this work for?
– Any hair length long enough to gather into an updo
– Formal occasions like weddings, proms, or galas
– Adding fullness to buns, twists, or intricate updos
How to get the look
1. Clip in extensions throughout the lower half of your head, focusing on areas that need bulk.
2. Backcomb at the crown if you want a little height, then smooth over the top layer.
3. Create your updo, whether that’s a low bun, French twist, or soft chignon.
4. Secure with pins and set with a flexible hold hairspray.
Pro tip: Curl or wave the extensions slightly before pinning to add texture and movement to the finished style.
Extensions make even the simplest updo feel more structured and secure.
Why clip-in extensions make styling easier
A good hair day can improve, well, your whole day. And on the days when your natural hair isn’t quite cooperating, clip-in extensions offer an easy way to get that extra lift, length, or fullness, without setting foot outside your door.
They’re simple to use, whether you’re styling for an event or just want a little more volume for your everyday look. Clip them in, blend them with your natural hair, and go. No glue, no long-term commitment, and no damage to your strands.
Why are clip-ins are worth adding to your routine?
– They’re flexible. Use as many or as few pieces as you need to customize your style. Add a few wefts for fullness, or go all in for length and volume.
– They’re reusable. With proper care, clip-ins can last for years, making them a lasting addition to your beauty kit.
– They work with every length. Yes, even extensions on short hair blend beautifully. Whether you want to thicken up a bob or try a longer style, clip-ins adapt to your look.
From thicker braids to fuller ponytails or soft, voluminous waves, clip-ins give you control over your hair’s shape and style, any time you want a little extra something.
Styling on your terms
Hair trends come and go, but the freedom to change your style whenever you want? That never gets old. Clip-in extensions make it easy to create the look you’re feeling in the moment—fuller braids, longer waves, more volume up top—all without waiting for your hair to catch up.
They work with your schedule, not against it. Slip them in for a little extra polish, take them out when you’re ready to wind down. No long-term decisions, no fuss—just more options at your fingertips.