Ballerina Bun: An Easy Tutorial

By Parma Rishel 2/4/2020

Three pictures of a little girl having her hair put in a bun. First picture is a braided ponytail. Second picture shows hair wrapped around ponytail and hairnet put over bun. Third picture shows finished bun.

Are you a dancer? Are you a parent of a dancer? When it comes time for a performance, many dance companies or schools require a dance bun. Does this raise your anxiety level?

Some choose to try and use a “dance donut”. Part of a dance education should include learning how to make a bun for both class and performance. This adheres to the standards of dance etiquette.

This easy ballerina bun tutorial will make you a performance bun expert in no time. So, throw away those donuts and bun like a pro.

History of the Ballet Bun

The ballet bun first appeared in the Italian Renaissance courts during the 15th century. It has remained to standard hairstyle for ballerinas. Most classic ballet schools require students to have their hair in a bun for class.

Having the hair secured in a bun isn’t only more attractive. It increases the dancer’s confidence and focus as they learn, practice, and perform their skills.

Having hair in a dancer’s face can provide a distraction as well as interfere with their vision. This could result in an injury to themselves and/or other dancers.

For performance, the ballet bun provides a clean crisp look to the dance. It also helps to secure headpieces in place.

Easy Tutorial for Making a Ballerina Bun

Making a ballet bun is easy when you have the right tools and know the steps. This tutorial will show you how to create a bun for different hair types and styles.

This tutorial does not specifically address African American type hair. If the hair is curly and loose, use a hair net as described to create a smooth bun.

Gather Supplies

You will need to gather the following supplies:

  • 2 ponytail holders
  • Hairnet–can usually be found at drug stores or beauty supply stores
  • Strong hold hair gel
  • Strong hold hairspray
  • Bobby pins close to the color of the hair
  • Hairbrush
  • Possibly bendy hair clip barrettes close to the color of the hair

Starting with damp hair makes it easier to create a smooth bun. Know where the bun should be placed according to the choreographer/instructor. This may be at the nape of the neck, crown of the head, or in between.

Video Tutorials

The following are short videos showing how to create a ballerina bun on different types and styles of hair.

Long Thick Hair

Hair with Bangs

Short Hair

Tiny Dancer

Are You Ready to Perform?

After viewing the easy ballerina bun tutorial, you should feel confident in making a ballet bun. Dance for Joy Dancewear offers tights, nudies and soft ballet, jazz, and lyrical shoes for performances.

Each customer receives individual shoe fittings by a professional dance instructor and former dancer. You can special order leotards, skirts, shorts, and other dancewear accessories.

We are located on the Mississippi Gulf coast and ready to meet your performance and dance needs. Contact us today to ask questions and find your go-to place for dancewear.