How To Do The Perfect Ballet Bun
From a classic ballet bun steeped in tradition to intricate styles that scream creativity, let your hairstyle be your canvas for your artistic expression.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to do a ballet bun and elevate your hairstyle into a more professional and sophisticated look.
It’s time to add a touch of style and flare to your dance look!
WHAT IS A BALLET BUN?
A ballet bun is a functional hairstyle that keeps your hair out of your face while dancing.
It involves securing your hair up with different hair accessories (ie. hair pins and hair nets) and taming those unwanted flyaways.
Sounds a tad boring, right?
Lucky for us dancers, there’s a wide range of ballet bun options available to give you style, and extra oomph.
From simple to elegant buns, dancers can add a touch of personality to their hairstyle, usually with minimal extra effort.
Let’s get started!
DIFFERENT TYPES OF BALLET BUNS
There are lots of different ballet bun styles available, but, I’ve chosen four of the most popular choices to detangle.
LOW BALLET BUN
A simple low bun embodies timeless elegance, evoking a romantic aura reminiscent of Giselle.
This classic style is ideal for dancers with shorter hair.
You can also choose between a centre or side part, rather than just straight back.
I always favoured a side part as it lends to a softer, less academic aesthetic.
HIGH BALLET BUN
A sophisticated high bun is always a winning choice.
This style not only highlights the neck but can also create the illusion of height, which is particularly valuable for shorter dancers like myself.
To enhance your high ballet bun, consider adding some statement hairpins for an extra touch of flare.
Additionally, experimenting with a centre part and incorporating twists on either side can elevate your look to the next level, and add some extra volume for dancers with thinner hair.
BRAIDED BALLET BUN
Braiding your hair offers a playful and creative avenue for experimentation.
Whether you opt for two simple braids with tucked-in ends or a more intricate crossed-braided bun, this style allows for plenty of versatility.
While it may require some practice and a generous amount of hair pins, the result is always worth the extra effort.
If your braiding skills aren’t quite up for the challenge, don’t hesitate to ask a friend and let their creativity take the lead.
I always found that a new hairstyle instilled a fresh sense of confidence, which undoubtedly showed in my dancing.
FRENCH ROLL
The French Roll, aka banana, can present a bit more of a challenge for newcomers to master.
However, with practice, it becomes no more difficult than the other styles already mentioned.
This elegant and sophisticated hairstyle can be a standout choice for auditions, elevating your presence when the goal is to stand out.
However, dancers with smaller heads should decide if it complements their look.
Unfortunately, for me, the French Roll left me looking more like a dinosaur than a ballerina. Roar!
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BALLET BUN
Choosing the right ballet bun is a personal decision based on your preferences, hair lengths, skill level, and the look you want to achieve.
Whether you prefer a classic bun, braids, twists, or any other style, the choice is entirely yours.
TIME, SKILL, AND THE FINAL LOOK
With practice and the help of online tutorials, you can develop the skills needed to perfect your dance hairstyle.
It’s important to consider the time constraints you may have and choose a hairstyle that suits your schedule.
Remember, simple styles can be just as beautiful and effective as more elaborate ones.
HAIR LENGTH
Your hair length plays a significant role in determining your options for dance hairstyles.
Longer hair typically offers more freedom for intricate styles like braids and the French Roll.
However, even with shorter hair, there are still various ways to style it for dance, such as sleek low buns, half-up styles, or using hair accessories to add flare.
The key is to work with your hair’s length and texture.
PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
In certain roles, such as those in the corps de ballet, uniformity in hairstyles is essential to create a visual effect of perfect symmetry and unity among dancers.
However, if you have the freedom to choose your ballet bun, it’s a great opportunity to consider how it can enhance your character’s attributes and align with the era of the ballet.
In doing so, you can add depth and authenticity to your character portrayal.
EASY BALLET BUN TUTORIAL
Here’s a simple tutorial to create the perfect ballet bun:
STEP 1 – PREPARE YOUR HAIR
Brush or comb your hair so it’s smooth and free of tangles.
STEP 2 – GET YOUR HAIR TOOLS AND PRODUCTS
Keep essential items handy, such as hair ties, hair nets, hair pins, bobby pins, and hairspray.
STEP 3 – MAKE YOUR PONYTAIL
Tie your hair at the desired height (high or low depending on bun preference) with a strong elastic.
If parting your hair, use a fine-tooth comb to create a straight line before tying your hair.
STEP 4 – FORM THE BUN
With the secured ponytail, begin twisting it around your head to form a bun shape.
STEP 5 – ADD HAIR NET AND HAIR PINS
Place a hair net over the bun and mold the hair to create a neat, round bun shape.
Add hair pins around the bun until it feels secure and looks neat.
STEP 6 – ADD HAIRSPRAY
Once your dance bun is secure, spray a layer of hairspray to keep it in place.
Then, smooth down any flyaways.
STEP 7 – ENHANCE YOUR LOOK
Finally, add hair accessories such as sparkly pins, ribbons, bows, flowers, or headbands to complement your style.
I always liked to match my hair accessories with my leotard to enhance the overall look.
TROUBLESHOOTING COMMON ISSUES
Here are a few common ballet bun problems and easy solutions to fix the mayhem.
LOOSE OR UNSECURED BALLET BUN
Nobody wants a bun that doesn’t hold in place during a class or performance.
Not only does it distract you while you’re dancing, it goes against the natural look of poise and elegance.
HOW TO SECURE YOUR BALLET BUN?
The best way to secure a ballet bun is to add additional hair pins directly to the bun or around shorter hair strands.
Make sure to use a hair net (or even two!), and apply a layer of hairspray or gel for extra hold.
UNEVEN OR LOPSIDED BALLET BUN
It’s never nice having a funny-shaped or lopsided ballet bun that looks more like a dome rather than something nice and round.
HOW TO FIX A LOPSIDED BUN?
The best way to fix a lopsided bun is to start by placing a hair net around the bun. Use your hands to carefully mold the bun into the desired shape, using a mirror to find the perfect symmetry.
Then, secure it firmly with bobby pins, adjusting as needed.
VISIBLE HAIR ACCESSORIES OR FLYAWAYS
Nobody wants a beautiful hairpiece that stands out for the wrong reasons, or nasty flyaways distracting from your look.
HOW TO FIX FLYAWAYS?
The best way to fix flyaways is to use hairspray, and lots of it! Use a comb and gently brush down your hair, finishing with as much hairspray as necessary.
Note: hairspray is available in various strengths, so choose an extra strong hairspray if needed.
HOW TO CONCEAL HAIR ACCESSORIES?
The best way to conceal hair accessories is by tucking them under your bun or hairstyle. Use hair pins and bobby pins that match the colour of your hair to keep them discreet.
MY TOP BALLET BUN PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
For any ballet hairstyle, my top three product recommendations cover all your needs.
HAIR NETS
Stocking up on ballet hair nets is essential, given their delicate nature.
Designed to be transparent and match different hair colours, these babies tear easily, so having plenty on hand ensures you’re always prepared.
EXTRA STRONG HAIRSPRAY
Perfect for performances, extra strong hairspray will provide the ultimate hold.
This will keep your ballet bun and hair intact even during the most rigorous ballet movements.
HAIR PINS
Hair pins are an indispensable item for securing your ballet bun and different hairstyles.
Invest in high-quality pins that grip the hair securely.
It’s a good idea to have a variety of pins in different sizes and colours to match your hair perfectly.
If you’re looking for a simple option, consider purchasing Bloch’s hair kit, available in three different hair colours.
WRAP UP
At the end of the day, play around with different ballet buns and hairstyles, until you find one that stays secure while you’re dancing and gives you an elegant and polished look.
Don’t be afraid to practice in front of the mirror, or ask a friend to help you perfect your dance bun.
Remember to find a ballet bun that you love, gives you confidence on stage, and enhances your overall dance presentation.
It won’t be long before you’re looking like a professional.
