Getting your dancer's hair performance-ready is one of those details that can feel small but makes a big difference on stage and in class. At Total Dance, Australia's home of premium dancewear, we know that a secure bun, a polished updo or neatly pinned hair isn't just about aesthetics , it's about confidence, professionalism and staying focused on the performance. That's why we've put together a carefully curated range of dance hair accessories that work as hard as your dancer does, with fast shipping across Australia so you're never caught short before a class or competition.
Why the Right Dance Hair Accessories Matter
Ask any dance teacher and they'll tell you: hair that falls in a dancer's face mid-performance is distracting at best and dangerous at worst. Whether your child is in their first ballet class or preparing for a major eisteddfod, having the right tools to keep hair neat and secure is essential. The good news is that quality dance hair accessories don't have to be complicated or expensive. A few key staples, chosen well, will see you through the whole dance season.
If you're not sure where to start, our detailed buyer's guide to dance hair accessories for kids in Australia covers everything from ripple pins to scrunchies and bun nets in depth, with plenty of practical advice for dance parents navigating it all for the first time.
The Foundations: Pins, Nets and Elastics
Every dancer's hair kit starts with the same core items. Ripple pins (also called wave pins or kirby grips) are the backbone of any bun or updo. Our Ripple Pins 50 Pack 4.5cm Black are a perennial favourite for darker hair, gripping firmly without slipping even during the most energetic routines. For dancers with lighter or warmer hair tones, the Ripple Pins 50 Pack 4.5cm Light Brown and Ripple Pins 50 Pack 4.5cm Brown blend beautifully and keep things looking polished from every angle. If your dancer has golden or highlighted hair, the Ripple Pins 50 Pack 4.5cm Gold are a lovely match that practically disappear into the hair.
For those who go through pins quickly (and with active kids, that's most of us), the Ripple Pins 100 Pack 4.5cm offers excellent value and means you'll always have a backup supply on hand. We also carry 5cm Black and White Bobby Pins for styles that call for a little extra length and grip.
No bun is complete without a quality bun net. Our Bun Nets are designed specifically for dancers, sitting snugly over the bun to keep every strand in place from warm-up to curtain call. For auburn-haired dancers, the Bunheads Hair Nets Auburn are a beautifully matched option that blends seamlessly. Pair your nets with our Smooth Hair Elastics 12 Pack, which are gentle on hair but strong enough to hold a tight bun throughout a full class or performance.
Scrunchies That Work as Hard as They Look
Scrunchies have earned their place in the dance bag for good reason. They're gentler on hair than traditional elastics, easy to slip on and off, and can double as a quick hair tie between classes. Our range includes styles to suit every dancer's personality and aesthetic.
The Coral Coast Scrunchie and Florida Floral Scrunchie bring a bright, summery feel that's perfect for recreational classes and rehearsals. The Luna Scrunchie is a more understated option for dancers who prefer a softer, neutral look. For a bold statement at a concert or showcase, the Sprinkle Paint Scrunchie, Sky Leopard Scrunchie and Purple Diamond Scrunchie are eye-catching choices that photograph beautifully under stage lighting. And if you're shopping for a younger dancer who loves colour, the Scrunchie - Aqua is a cheerful, versatile pick that works with a wide range of dance costumes and uniforms.
Performance Hair Accessories for Eisteddfods and Concerts
When the stakes are higher, the hair accessories need to step up too. Competition and concert hairstyles often require more structured pieces that hold their shape under warm stage lights and through technically demanding routines.
Headpieces, Tiaras and Finishing Touches
For ballet and lyrical performances, a beautifully placed headpiece can complete the entire look. Our Flat Diamante Headpiece and Flower Diamante Headpiece add elegant sparkle without weighing down the hair or shifting during movement. Both are designed with performance in mind, staying firmly in place while looking stunning from the audience.
For a more regal, fairy-tale look, the Alyssa Rose Gold Tiara and Willow Rose Gold Tiara are popular choices for solos and showcase performances. The warm rose gold tones work beautifully with a wide range of costume colours and skin tones. The Headband is another versatile option, working equally well for contemporary and jazz styles where a cleaner, more modern look is called for.
For dancers who like a little extra flair, our Diamante Round Magnetic Earrings are a safe and practical choice, particularly for younger dancers or those with unpierced ears. They stay put under the lights and add just the right touch of sparkle.
We've also written a handy guide for our New Zealand dance families , if you're across the Tasman, our guide to choosing dance hair accessories in New Zealand covers ripple pins, bun nets and scrunchies with the same level of detail, tailored to local needs.
Keeping Hair Sleek: Tips for a Flawless Bun
Even the best accessories need a little technique behind them. Here are a few practical tips that dance parents and dancers swear by:
- Start with slightly damp hair. A bun set on damp hair with a strong hold gel or spray will stay smoother for longer and is much easier to form neatly.
- Use more pins than you think you need. For a performance bun, more is more. Cross your ripple pins in a criss-cross pattern to lock the bun securely.
- Layer your nets. Using two bun nets, one over the other, gives extra hold and a neater finish, especially for dancers with thick or long hair.
- Keep a small pouch in the dance bag. Dedicate a zippered section of your dancer's bag to hair essentials so pins, nets and elastics are always easy to find before class.
How to Buy Dance Hair Accessories Online at Total Dance Australia
Shopping for dance hair accessories online with Total Dance is straightforward. Our full range of dance hair accessories is easy to browse by type, so whether you're looking for a specific pin size, a matching scrunchie or a competition headpiece, you can find exactly what you need without the guesswork.
We offer fast shipping across Australia, so even last-minute orders before a concert or eisteddfod have a good chance of arriving in time. Orders are carefully packed to make sure pins and delicate headpieces arrive in perfect condition.
What to Add to Your Cart
If you're building a hair kit from scratch or restocking for a new dance season, here's a practical starting list:
- Ripple Pins 50 Pack 4.5cm in your dancer's hair colour (black, brown, light brown or gold)
- Bun Nets matched to hair colour
- Smooth Hair Elastics 12 Pack for a reliable base
- One or two Scrunchies for rehearsals and casual wear
- A performance headpiece or tiara if your dancer has an upcoming concert
If you'd like to add a gift for a dancer in your life alongside the practical essentials, our Hair Blossom and Ballerina Keyring make sweet, dance-themed additions that pair beautifully with a hair accessories bundle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size ripple pins are best for a ballet bun?
For most dancers, 4.5cm ripple pins are the ideal size for securing a ballet bun. They're long enough to grip the bun firmly without poking through uncomfortably. We carry 4.5cm ripple pins in black, brown, light brown and gold, as well as a 100-pack for families who go through them quickly. The 5cm black and white bobby pins are also a good option for thicker hair.
How many ripple pins does a dancer need per performance?
It varies depending on hair thickness and the style, but as a general guide, most dancers use between 15 and 30 ripple pins to secure a performance bun properly. Buying in bulk packs (like our 50-pack or 100-pack options) is the most economical and practical approach, ensuring you always have spares in the bag.
Can I use a regular hair elastic instead of a dance elastic?
Regular elastics can work in a pinch, but they're often harder on the hair and may not hold as securely during high-intensity movement. Our Smooth Hair Elastics 12 Pack are specifically designed for dance use, offering a firm hold while being gentler on the hair shaft, which matters when your dancer's hair is being pulled up tightly on a regular basis.
Do you ship dance hair accessories to all states in Australia?
Yes, Total Dance ships across Australia, including metropolitan and regional areas. Delivery times vary depending on your location, but we aim to dispatch orders promptly so your accessories arrive as quickly as possible. Check our website for current delivery estimates and any express shipping options available at checkout.
