Stepping onto the ballroom dance floor is about more than just steps; it’s about embodying a culture. Years ago, a valuable lesson was imparted to a young dancer about respecting this culture, emphasizing that ballroom is not merely a sport but an art form demanding elegance and respect. This includes every aspect of presentation, and Ballroom Dance Hair is a critical part of that overall picture. But in today’s dance world, what exactly do the judges think about dancers’ grooming choices, specifically when it comes to hair?
To get a clearer picture, an anonymous survey was conducted among ballroom dance adjudicators to understand their perspectives on grooming habits at competitions. While hair might not be the sole determinant of a score, understanding judges’ preferences can certainly contribute to a dancer’s overall presentation and confidence.
Men’s Ballroom Dance Hair: Neatness and Style
When it comes to men’s ballroom dance hair, the resounding theme from judges is neatness and intentional styling. Whether it’s for the fast-paced Latin dances or the graceful Standard and Smooth styles, hair should be groomed and contribute to a polished look.
- Slicked Back is Key: For Ballroom and Smooth styles, judges overwhelmingly prefer hair to be slicked back. “In Standard and Smooth, it shouldn’t move around; it is distracting,” one judge noted. Leaving hair natural or unstyled is seen as “too casual” and “not good for competition.” The slicked-back style conveys a sense of formality and control that aligns with the elegance of ballroom dance.
- Natural Color is Acceptable: Judges are generally accepting of natural hair color, with one stating, “Dark or light doesn’t make a difference. Their natural color is fine.” The focus is less on color and more on the grooming and styling.
- Recent Haircut Matters: Beyond just styling, the upkeep of the haircut itself is important. Judges expect to see dancers who look well-maintained, with comments like, “Guys should not look like they haven’t had a cut in weeks.” Regular haircuts are part of presenting a professional and respectful image.
Man with slicked back hair in ballroom dance competition, showcasing a groomed and elegant hairstyle.
Men’s Hair Product Advice: To achieve the desired neat and slicked-back look, consider using hair gel or hairspray. As one judge advises, “To keep it natural is a mistake because nothing we do is natural. It is important to look taken care of.” These products help maintain the hairstyle throughout rounds of competition. Seeking professional hairstyling at competitions or having a partner assist with hairspray application are also practical tips for ensuring a competition-ready hairstyle.
Man Buns in Ballroom: A Divisive Hairstyle
Man buns spark more divided opinions among judges in the context of ballroom dance. While potentially acceptable in Latin styles, they are generally frowned upon in Standard and Smooth.
- Latin vs. Ballroom: Some judges find man buns “maybe fine in Latin,” understanding they can fit a more relaxed or contemporary style. However, for Ballroom, the consensus leans towards “a big NO!” The formality of Ballroom clashes with the casualness often associated with man buns.
- Masculinity Still Important: Even if a bun is considered for Latin, it should still maintain a masculine aesthetic. “But, if they have long hair and they need to tie it, it should still be masculine,” one judge pointed out. The overall impression should remain strong and intentional.
Decision Tip for Man Buns: When deciding on a man bun for competition, especially in Ballroom, seriously consider if it projects a winning image. As a judge wisely stated, “If you look like a winner, you have a better chance of being a winner.” For Ballroom and Smooth, opting for a more traditional, slicked-back style is generally safer and better received.
Ladies Ballroom Dance Hair: Updos and Polished Elegance
For ladies’ ballroom dance hair, the emphasis shifts towards polished updos and hairstyles that convey elegance and meticulous preparation. Judges generally prefer hair to be neatly styled and secured, especially for Standard and Smooth styles.
- Updos Preferred for Standard and Smooth: “Loose hair is unacceptable,” declared one judge, highlighting the expectation of styled hair for formal ballroom styles. Updos are favored as they present a “clean and neat” look that can withstand multiple rounds of dancing. Judges associate loose hair with a lack of preparation, stating, “I think it means that you didn’t take the time to prepare. It is the easy way out. Don’t be lazy.”
- Ponytails Potentially Acceptable for Latin/Rhythm (with caveats): While updos are strongly preferred for Standard and Smooth, long ponytails might be acceptable for Latin or Rhythm, but even then, with reservations. “The only thing I can understand is a long ponytail for Latin or Rhythm,” one judge conceded, while another expressed uncertainty about ponytails even in American Smooth. The key remains keeping it “in order” and avoiding a messy or overly casual look.
- Short Hair Down Acceptable for Smooth and Standard: Interestingly, “Smooth and Standard short and down is fine,” according to one judge. This suggests that shorter, styled hair worn down can be acceptable if it still maintains a neat and intentional appearance, especially for Smooth styles where softer looks can sometimes be appropriate.
Elegant lady ballroom dancer with a classic updo, showcasing sophisticated and secure competition hair.
Tips for Ladies Ballroom Hair Success:
- Professional Styling: Consider professional hairstyling for competitions. This ensures a polished, secure, and judge-ready hairstyle.
- Practice Makes Perfect: If professional styling isn’t always an option, practice creating neat and tight updos yourself or with your partner’s help. Experiment to find styles that are both elegant and practical for dancing.
- Product Power: Utilize strong-hold hairsprays like Got2BGlued to keep hairstyles in place. Hairpieces can also be valuable for adding volume or covering styling imperfections.
- Hair Accessories: Frenchie hair pins and hairnets are essential tools for securing buns and updos effectively.
- Styling Techniques: Some dancers find it easier to style their hair when it’s slightly wet, which can provide better control.
The Underlying Message: Respect for the Culture
The judges’ feedback on ballroom dance hair, and grooming in general, circles back to the initial lesson: ballroom dance is a culture to be respected. Presenting oneself with groomed and styled hair is a visual cue of this respect. It demonstrates effort, intentionality, and an understanding of the aesthetic traditions of ballroom.
Well-dressed ballroom dancer in performance pose, highlighting the overall groomed and elegant presentation expected in competitions.
Final Thoughts on Ballroom Dance Hair
While exceptional dancing remains paramount, grooming, especially ballroom dance hair, plays a significant role in the overall impression a dancer makes. Judges appreciate seeing dancers who are not only skilled but also present themselves with respect for the art form. By paying attention to these details and choosing hairstyles that are neat, intentional, and appropriate for the style of dance, competitors can enhance their presentation and step onto the floor with confidence, knowing they are honoring the rich culture of ballroom.
For further insights into men’s grooming, explore “Ballroom Gentlemen – The Put Together Man on the Ballroom Floor.” And for dress inspiration, discover numerous articles in American Dancer’s Style Section. See you on the dance floor, looking your best!
