Though it can seem a bit pedantic, there is actually a distinction between a hair clip and a barrette, meaning you shouldn't be using them interchangeably. According to France Luxe, a hair clip can encompass a wide range of clip styles, whereas a barrette is "a type of hair clip." This means that claw clips, cascade clips, and other popular types of hair clip that went viral on TikTok can all be called hair clips, but they can't technically be called a barrette. 

If you're wondering about where to place your barrette, you're in luck. Speaking to Allure, hairstylist Justine Marjan said the placement of your barrette is important. Marjan says, "[F]or higher placement, place along the same line as your eyes or eyebrows. If placing behind the ear, place along the same line as your cheekbones." This will help you to achieve different looks based on what you're going for.

Barrettes aren't just for long hair, either. Hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein shared with Allure that she thinks barrettes are "especially cute on a shorter bob, and also pretty when it's a bit imperfect with some strands falling loose" — i.e. your barrette doesn't have to look perfect.