’80s banana clips are back with 5 modern styles that keep necks 5 degrees cooler

Banana clips, those iconic hair accessories that dominated the ’80s and ’90s, are making a spectacular comeback in Summer 2025. These curved plastic clips with teeth are not just nostalgic throwbacks—they’re being reimagined with modern twists that make them perfect for today’s versatile hairstyling needs. Whether you’re dealing with summer heat or simply want to add some retro flair to your look, banana clips offer practical and stylish solutions for all hair types and lengths.

Why banana clips are trending again in 2025

The resurgence of banana clips isn’t just about nostalgia. “In today’s fast-paced world, people are looking for hair accessories that provide both style and functionality,” explains Dr. Eliza Morton, professor of fashion psychology at California Style Institute. “Banana clips deliver exactly that—they’re quick to use, secure, and create instant volume with minimal effort.”

This revival also coincides perfectly with summer’s need for heat-friendly hairstyles. Similar to how layered hairstyles keep your neck cooler, banana clip styles elevate hair off the neck while maintaining a polished look.

5 Modern banana clip styles for summer 2025

Today’s banana clip styles go far beyond the basic ponytail of yesteryear. Here are the trending looks for Summer 2025:

  • The Modern Mohawk – Creates height at the crown while keeping sides sleek
  • The Twisted Cascade – Combines a French twist with flowing ends
  • The Volume Crown – Adds 2-3 inches of height at the crown
  • The Low Elegant Sweep – Perfect for professional settings
  • The Textured Pineapple – Ideal for curly and natural hair textures

Banana clips for different hair types

One of the greatest advantages of banana clips is their versatility across hair textures. For those with thicker hair who struggle with summer styling, banana clips offer similar benefits to specialized cuts for thick hair, but without the commitment.

“Banana clips work like architecture for your hair,” says James Ferrell, celebrity hairstylist. “They create structure where you need it while allowing natural movement elsewhere—like scaffolding that supports but doesn’t constrain.”

How to properly use a banana clip in 2025

Modern banana clip usage differs slightly from ’80s techniques. Follow these updated steps:

  • Start with slightly textured hair (not freshly washed)
  • Position the clip at the nape for low styles or crown for volume
  • Close from bottom to top, not center outward
  • Secure with 1-2 bobby pins for all-day hold

Styling innovations: Beyond the basic clip

2025’s banana clips feature significant upgrades from their ’80s predecessors. Today’s versions include ergonomic shapes, gentler teeth, and materials that don’t snag or break hair. Some even incorporate elements similar to reimagined French twists that add height and sophistication.

Addressing the common banana clip challenges

Many remember banana clips for their tendency to slip or break. Modern designs have conquered these issues through improved materials and engineering. For those concerned about facial asymmetry, banana clips can actually help create balance, much like specialized haircuts for asymmetrical features.

Banana clips for aging hair

For those dealing with gray or thinning hair, banana clips offer significant benefits. They create the illusion of volume and can showcase beautiful silver strands in elegant arrangements. These styling advantages complement other solutions for adding volume to gray hair.

Whether you’re revisiting a beloved accessory from your youth or discovering banana clips for the first time, these versatile styling tools deserve a place in your 2025 summer hair routine. Their ability to create instant style while keeping you cool makes them the perfect seasonal accessory.