Dad’s Guide to Doing a Ballet Bun for Dance Class at Melbourne Institute of Dance
- Kalman Warhaft
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 10
Published: 10 June 2025
If you’re a dad getting your daughter ready for ballet class, you might be feeling just a little bit out of your depth when it comes to doing her hair. The ballet bun, while seemingly simple, can feel like a real challenge, especially if you’ve never touched a bobby pin in your life! But don’t worry. With a little patience, the right tools, and some easy-to-follow steps, you can absolutely master this. In fact, many dads have become experts at it, and you’re about to join their ranks.
The ballet bun isn’t just for looks. It’s essential for keeping hair secure and out of the way so that dancers can move freely and safely. A neat bun also shows respect for the discipline of ballet and helps your child feel part of the group. Creating the perfect bun starts with brushing the hair thoroughly to remove any tangles. This helps create a smooth foundation and makes the whole process much easier. If her hair is thick or curly, you can lightly mist it with water to make it more manageable.
Once the hair is smooth, gather it into a ponytail. The ideal height is just above the middle of the back of the head, around the top of the ears. Use a strong hair tie to hold it in place. Take a moment to smooth out any bumps and make sure it feels tight but not uncomfortable. Next, gently twist the ponytail and begin wrapping it in a circle around the base. This coiled twist will naturally form the shape of the bun. You don’t need to wrap it too tightly, just enough to keep it structured.
To secure the bun, you’ll need bobby pins. Slide them in where the bun meets the head, working your way around to hold everything steady. If the bun feels loose or looks like it’s coming apart, just add more pins. Then, if you have a hairnet in a similar hair colour, wrap it over the bun and secure it with a couple of pins. This step adds an extra layer of neatness and hold, especially if your daughter has fine or flyaway hair.
To finish the look, smooth any loose hairs with a touch of hairspray or water on your fingers. Some dads use a soft toothbrush or small brush to neaten the hairline without irritating the scalp. The final bun should feel secure, not too tight, and be comfortable enough for her to dance without distraction. Every ballet bun begins with a brave attempt, so take a few deep breaths and remember, each time you do it, you’ll get quicker, neater, and more confident.
The best part is the quiet moment of connection it creates, just the two of you, getting ready for something special. You might even find it becomes a treasured routine before each class. She’ll want to check it out in the mirror, and that big smile is the best reward of all.
Now that your daughter’s hair is in a perfectly rounded bun, she’s ready to take a children’s ballet class at Melbourne Institute of Dance.
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