These are a perfect size at 4.5 in as they are not too small nor too big like the new JoJo styles that are popular with young girls now! My daughter is 5 with long hair and while these are true alligator clips on back, I still use a hair and to secure the hair first, then I can confidently skip the alligator clip under the elastic to stay all day!!! Nothing worse than your child coming out from school and you gowheres your bow??!! Ha! Prefer these over the bow with elastic band as they are more versatile! Bright colors, good quality (its just ribbon so they don't last forever) but exactly as pictured. Would buy again!