Tips for crafting the perfect dance recital bun
Creating the perfect bun for a dance recital not only completes the look but also ensures that the dancer's hair stays neatly in place, allowing them to focus entirely on their performance.
Supplies needed
Brush
Fine-toothed comb
Ponytail holder
Bobby pins
Hairspray
Hair gel
Hairnet (that matches your hair color)
“DONUT” (optional)
8 steps to the perfect recital bun
Follow these practical, authoritative tips to achieve an impeccable bun:
Start with the Right Base: For the bun to hold, start with hair that's wet or hair that hasn’t been washed for a day or two. Hair that's slightly coarse or has a bit of texture from a day or two after washing will hold pins and styling products better.
Create a Part: Some buns will require a part. Use a comb or a brush to create a part. Parts are usually located in the center of the head, or over an eyebrow if a side-part is required.
Gel and Brush: Apply gel and use a fine-tooth comb to brush the hair back and away from the face towards the desired location of the ponytail.
Use a Strong Hair Tie: Gather the hair into a ponytail at the desired location of the bun. For high buns, position the ponytail at crown of the head. For low buns, position the ponytail just above the nape of the neck for ballet. Secure it tightly with a sturdy hair tie that matches the hair color.
Twist and Wrap: Twist the ponytail firmly and begin wrapping it around the base, securing it with bobby pins as you go. Match the bobby pins to the hair color for them to be less noticeable.
Smooth and Secure: Use a fine-tooth comb or a brush to smooth any flyaways. Apply another light layer of hair gel or hairspray to keep everything smooth and in place. For additional security, consider a hairnet that matches the hair color over the bun.
Final Touches: Make sure the bun is balanced and securely fastened. If required, add more bobby pins discreetly around the base. A final spritz of hairspray will help hold everything together.
Accessorize Appropriately: If the recital has specific requirements for hair accessories, such as flowers or ribbons, attach them securely to the bun without disrupting its structure.
Donut Bun
The 'donut bun' method is a fail-safe way to create a neat, professional-looking bun suitable for the stage. This technique involves using a 'donut' shaped hair accessory to form the bun, providing volume and shape that might be difficult to achieve with hair alone, especially for those with fine or shorter hair.
To start, secure the hair in a ponytail at the desired height of the bun. Then, place the donut accessory around the base of the ponytail. Spread the hair around the donut, covering it completely, and secure it with a combination of bobby pins and hairnets that match the hair color. Ensure the bun is tight against the head and free of loose strands for a polished look.
Tutorials
We've curated a selection of video tutorials that walk you through the process step by step. These resources are designed to equip you with the skills to create a sleek, secure bun that complements the overall stage look, ensuring your young performer stands out for all the right reasons.
Creating the perfect bun takes practice
Remember, practice is key. Try creating the bun several times before the actual recital day. This not only ensures that you'll be confident and quick when the big day arrives but also allows your dancer to get used to the feeling of their hair being securely styled, so it doesn't distract them during their performance.
