I get the non latex bands on Amazon. They are 1/4" which is just the right size to get small amounts of hair into. You will spend about $11 for 500 bands that will last you at least a couple of years on just one dog. Here is a link for anyone interested:
Amazon.com: Latex Free Dog Grooming Bands by... I usually get the clear ones but they only have those in bags of 100 now. Still a good deal.
If you put one or two of these in to hold the hair you can then put in a bow or clip and it won't slide out. Clips and bows can be a choking hazard if not secure. The bands help to do that.
There are pictures and a video that show how to best place the bands and bows in securely.
How To Put In Dog Bows : Dog Bows, Quality Dog Bows - Yorkie, Maltese, Shih Tzu - by BowBiz