The 1990s and early 2000s are calling, and they want their favorite hair accessory back. If you grew up during the era of girl groups, glitter gel, and teen rom-coms, you likely remember the sheer joy of a fresh pack of butterfly clips. These tiny, plastic winged wonders weren’t just hair accessories; they were a rite of passage.
Fast forward to today, and the Y2K aesthetic is dominating social media feeds and fashion runways. From Gen Z’s discovery of “vintage” styles to Millennials reclaiming their childhood favorites, butterfly clips have made a triumphant return. They offer a playful, whimsical way to add color and personality to any look. Whether you’re going for a subtle accent or a full-on maximalist “crown” of butterflies, here are 10 hairstyles that perfectly capture that 90s nostalgia.
1. Crown Clips
The “Butterfly Crown” is perhaps the most iconic way to wear these clips. To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle and take small sections (about half an inch wide) along your front hairline. Twist each section slightly away from your face and secure it with a clip about two inches back from your forehead. By lining up five or six clips on each side, you create a halo effect that frames the face beautifully. This style works best on straight or slightly wavy hair and instantly gives off Lizzie McGuire energy.
2. Space Buns
Space buns are a staple of 90s rave culture and festival fashion. Adding butterfly clips to this look takes the playfulness to a new level. Once you’ve secured your two high buns, use the clips as decorative accents. You can clip them directly onto the buns or use them to secure flyaways near the nape of your neck. For a truly authentic Y2K feel, use clips with glitter or metallic finishes that catch the light as you move.
3. Face-Framing Tendrils
If you prefer a more minimalist approach to the trend, the face-framing tendril look is for you. This style focuses on the two thin “antenna” strands of hair left out of an updo or a ponytail. Instead of letting them hang loose, place a single butterfly clip on each strand at eyebrow or cheekbone level. This not only keeps the hair out of your eyes but also highlights your facial features. It’s a subtle nod to the era that feels modern and chic.
4. Twisted Sections
For a look that adds texture and visual interest, try the twisted section style. This involves taking several sections of hair from the front and twisting them tightly toward the back of the head. Secure each twist with a clip at the crown. This creates a “ribbed” effect across the top of the head. It’s a great way to keep hair secure during a busy day while looking like you stepped straight out of a 1998 music video.
5. Half-Up Twist
While the tiny clips are the most famous, the 90s also saw the rise of the medium and large “claw” style butterfly clips. For a sophisticated take on the nostalgia, gather the top half of your hair and secure it at the back of your head with one large, ornate butterfly clip. This is an effortless “cool girl” look that works for brunch, the office, or a casual date night. It provides a more polished silhouette while still embracing the winged theme.
6. Messy Updo
The “I just woke up like this” messy bun gets a colorful upgrade with butterfly accessories. Instead of aiming for symmetry, randomly scatter small clips throughout your updo. This works particularly well for those with curly or coily textures, as the clips can nestle into the volume of the hair. The goal here is a whimsical, “garden fairy” vibe that feels organic and fun rather than structured.
7. Micro Braids
Micro braids were a massive trend in the late 90s, often seen on R&B icons. You can modernize this by incorporating just a few thin braids into your overall style. Instead of using boring elastic bands to secure the ends of the braids, snap a butterfly clip over the tail of the braid. This adds a pop of color to the lengths of your hair and creates movement as the clips bounce against your shoulders.
8. Low Pigtails
Low pigtails can sometimes look a bit too “young,” but the right accessories can make them look intentional and trendy. Use butterfly clips to decorate the hair just above the hair tie, or use them to pin back any shorter layers that don’t reach the pigtail. Choosing clips in a monochromatic color scheme—like all white or all gold—can elevate this look from “playground” to “pop star.”
9. Side Sweep
The side sweep is a classic, elegant hairstyle that benefits from a bit of Y2K flair. Part your hair deeply to one side and use three or four butterfly clips to pin back the side with less hair. Line them up vertically just behind your ear. This keeps your hair sleek on one side while showing off your earrings and jawline. It’s a perfect look for those who want to experiment with the trend without committing to a full head of clips.
10. Rainbow Rows
If you want to go all out, the rainbow row style is the ultimate tribute to the 90s. This involves placing clips in a specific color order—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple—down the length of your hair or across the crown. This maximalist approach is perfect for Pride events, festivals, or simply when you’re feeling particularly bold. It’s high-energy, high-color, and guaranteed to spark a conversation about everyone’s favorite decade.
Styling Tips for the Modern Butterfly Look
- Prep the Hair: Butterfly clips tend to slide out of very silky, freshly washed hair. Use a bit of dry shampoo or a texturizing spray to give the clips something to “grip” onto.
- Mix and Match: Don’t feel like you have to stick to one color. The 90s were all about clashing colors and glitter. Mixing neon pink with lime green or transparent clips with solid ones adds to the authentic retro feel.
- Scale Matters: Choose the size of your clips based on your hair thickness. If you have fine hair, stick to the “micro” clips to avoid weighing your hair down. For thick or curly hair, look for clips with longer “teeth” to ensure they stay secure.
