Blog Archives

How to Keep Dance Costumes Looking Amazing All Season: Simple Tips for Busy Dance Families

12/10/2025

Dance Costume Care Tips
Costume week is always so exciting- sparkles all over the place, dancers twirling everywhere, and parents trying to keep everything organized (we see you!).
Once those beautiful costumes head home, a little bit of care will help keep them looking picture-perfect for photos, rehearsals, and our big June recital.
Here’s an easy, no-stress guide to keeping costumes in their very best shape.
1. Hang It Up Right Away One of the simplest things you can do? Put the costume straight onto a hanger as soon as you get home.
Why it matters:
Costumes wrinkle quickly when folded or stuffed into a bag. Hanging them helps the fabric settle and keeps the costume’s shape.
Tip:
Have a tutu-style costume? Peel apart each layer of tulle to steam and hang it upside down and give the tulle a little fluff. This helps it fall correctly and look fuller on stage.

2. Use Steam Not an Iron If your costume has a few travel wrinkles (totally normal!), a handheld steamer is your best friend.
Why steaming works:
It loosens wrinkles without crushing delicate fabrics, sequins, or appliqués.
Tip:
Hold the steamer a few inches away and move gently.
Please avoid using an iron!!! Even low heat can melt or distort costume material, and we definitely don’t want that.

3. Skip the Washing Machine Dance costumes are not made for everyday laundering, and most will not survive a spin in the washer or dryer.
If something gets dirty:

Spot clean only
Use mild detergent and cool water
Blot- don’t scrub

Tip:
Let the costume fully air dry before putting it back in a garment bag to avoid moisture and odors.

4. Save Costumes for Show Time Only We know dancers want to wear their costumes everywhere. Grocery store? Sure. Backyard? Why not.
But until our June recital is finished, costumes should only be worn for:

Picture day
Dress rehearsals
Performances

Tip:
If your dancer wants to “play dress-up,” have a fun at-home costume they can use guilt-free.

5. Keep All Accessories Together Nothing strikes fear into a dance parent’s heart quite like realizing a hairpiece has disappeared.
Tip:
Use a small bag, pencil pouch, or even a labeled sandwich baggie to store:

Hairpieces
Gloves
Extra straps
Small accessories

Replacement pieces aren’t usually available without buying an entirely new costume - so keeping them together saves a lot of stress.

6. What Your Dancer Should Not Wear Under Their Costume This is the question everyone wonders about, so let’s make it super easy:

No underwear under tights.
Dance tights act as both hosiery and undergarments. Regular underwear can show lines, shift around, or peek through on stage.
No visible bras or straps.
If your dancer needs extra support, choose a nude-tone, clear-strap, or dance-specific undergarment designed to stay invisible.

Tip:
Have your dancer try their costume on at home once (gently!) just to make sure everything fits smoothly.

7. After the final Spring Recital? Wear It Anywhere! Once our Spring recital day is over and we’ve celebrated all their hard work, dancers can enjoy their costumes however they want - tea parties, playground adventures, next years' Halloween costume, and sparkling Target runs included.

Need Recital or Rehearsal Info? All of the detailed hair, makeup, and rehearsal information is in the recital packets sent to your email and shared in BAND.
You can also scan the QR code on your costume name tag for quick access anytime.

We’re Here to Help! Thank you for taking such good care of your dancers’ costumes. It truly keeps our performances looking polished and magical.
If you ever have questions or need help, please reach out.

0 Comments

2025-2026 Company Team Hair & Makeup

12/9/2025

0 Comments

Makeup

Makeup is used to make facial features and emotions visible under the stage lights, so dancers will need to wear more makeup than they would on a normal day. This helps their expressions shine all the way to the back row.

I've linked all of my favorite products below.

Hair & Makeup Product Links

For performance day hair & makeup, you’ll need:

Foundation and/or concealer
Contour
Bronzer
Blush
Eye shadow (required studio colors + application)
Eyeliner
False eyelashes (Large lashes required for all teams except Mini Company- they may opt for mascara instead, but it must be heavily applied)
Eyebrow pencil or preferred brow product
Lipstick (required studio colors)
Setting powder or spray (highly recommended so everything stays put all day)

REQUIRED TEAM COLORS:
The two required matching colors are for lipstick and eyeshadow.
Lipstick:
You'll need to get the Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink Lipstick. Each class has their own shade.
Mini Company – Shade 150 “Pathfinder”amzn.to/44RirOB
Petite Company – Shade 80 “Ruler”amzn.to/3MqdaaA
Senior Company – Shade 340 “Exhilarator”amzn.to/3MqwjsV

Eyeshadow: amzn.to/48LSVvs
You'll also need this specific eyeshadow palette- It's called the elf bite sized eyeshadow palette in the color cream & sugar. You will find the video for the eyeshadow application under number 3.

Makeup Video Tutorials

1. This video is a basic tutorial for how to do the foundation/contour face makeup for the stage. I've linked all of my favorite products in this blog post above.

You should use your preferred products and colors that match your skintone for your face makeup. You DO NOT need to get the exact products they use in the videos. The only products that need to be exact matches are the eyeshadow and lipstick.

Ignore the eyeshadow she does, we'll do the eyeshadow look from video #3

2. This video is also great for some basic contour/foundation and eyelash tips.

3. Required eyeshadow palette & application tutorial. The specific eyeshadow method starts at about 8:15 and goes until 11:30.
*Please note that a liquid liner on top with a slight wing is required to finish out the look, and a little of the darkest shade of eyeshadow on the bottom is also required.

Hair

Senior Company

Petite Company

Mini Company

Company Hair Instructions:
Center Part Mid-High Ponytail with Braids
(3 Braids for Senior Company, 2 Braids for Petite Company, 1 Braid for Mini Company)
1. Start With Prepped Hair

Brush hair thoroughly to remove tangles.
Lightly mist with water or detangler to help control flyaways.
Add a small amount of gel to the roots for smoothness.

2. Create a Clean Center Part

Using a rat-tail comb, part the hair straight down the middle from forehead to crown.
Clip one side out of the way while you work on the other.
Make sure the part is crisp—this is what makes the style look polished.

3. Gather Hair Into a Mid-High Ponytail

Combine both sides of the part into one ponytail positioned between the center of the head and the crown (not low, not super high- slightly higher than directly center).
Brush upward on each side to keep the part straight and the sides smooth.
Secure tightly with a strong elastic. I like to do two elastics just in case.

4. Smooth and Set the Base

Use gel, wax, smoothing combs + hairspray (hello, performance proof!) to smooth down bumps.
Brush the ponytail once more so it’s smooth and ready for braiding.

5. Divide the Ponytail Into Three Sections

Split the pony into equal sections (sr-3, petite 2, mini 1)- I like to gel or wax the hair before starting the braids to keep everything exactly where I put it.
Clip or hold the other sections to keep things neat while you braid.

6. Braid Each Section

Standard three-strand braid for each section.
Keep tension consistent so all three braids match in thickness and tightness.
Secure each braid with a small elastic. Try to leave the same amount at the end of each braid. We're aiming for no more than 1-2 inches left at the bottom.

7. Finishing Touches

Lightly pull on each braid to get a slightly fuller look then spray both sides of the braids generously with a firm hold hairspray.
Spray the entire style with strong-hold hairspray.
Add required costume hair piece. (All bows, clips/flowers will go directly on top of the ponytail.)

0 Comments

Competitive Dance Essentials- buying guide (with links!)

12/8/2025

0 Comments

Competition Dancer Essentials: Hair & Makeup

Hey friends! I'm super excited to finally be putting together my first edition of company dance essentials. This first post will include all of my favorite HAIR & MAKEUP essentials. I grew up dancing competitively, and did my own hair and makeup from the time I was 10 years old. Now, I'm a mother of three dancers as well as a studio director. I've tried SO many products and can now confidently recommend products that I cannot live without.
Simply click each photo to find each item on Amazon and add them to your cart!

Hair Essentials

Tubby Todd Detangler:
This Tubby Todd detangling spray is a lifesaver!!! This is the item I start with, every single time. Especially on those mornings when your kiddos' hair has a mind of its own. A few spritzes help knots slip right out, making brushing painless (and tear-less) and soooo much quicker. It leaves the hair soft, manageable, and ready to style without weighing it down. I love using it before brushing hair into buns or ponytails because it gives you a smooth starting point and keeps everyone happy in the getting-ready process.

Hair Wax:
A good hair wax is key for those slicked-back, performance-ready hairstyles. I use it to give the hair a manageable texture so it actually listens to you, helps you get everything into place without fighting it, and keeps all those tiny flyaways right where they’re supposed to be. It's the perfect starting point for those tight slicked back looks. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference in achieving that clean, uniform team look.

Wet Brush:
The Wet Brush is my “don’t even start without it” tool. It works with the hair instead of against it- taming knots that would normally slow everything down (and cause major meltdowns). It’s gentle, dependable, and makes brushing feel like a quick, no-drama step instead of a full battle. Whether the hair is fresh out of the shower or completely dry, this brush helps me get everything smooth and ready to style in a fraction of the time. It’s a must have item for sure!

Smoothing Combs:
A set of smoothing combs is a total game-changer for creating clean, professional dance hairstyles. I've seen people use toothbrushes for hair gel and wax, but I really have preferred having a dedicated brush with smoothing bristles. It's a total bonus that this pack comes with a parting comb as well. I couldn't create a clean part or smooth pony without them!

Clear elastics:
Okay, to be honest, I have a total love hate relationship with these elastics. They're super sturdy and will NOT surprise break on you during dance or performances- BUT they're so strong and grippy, that you have to really stretch them out before you put them in the hair. They take some finesse and there's a little bit of a learning curve- but I haven't found a clear elastic hair tie that ACTUALLY stays where you put it other than these ones. They're also difficult to remove- which is why I also recommend a pony pick (I'll link that below). All in all- these are not going anywhere. You've got to love a product that actually does its job!

Pony Pick:
A pony pick is a total lifesaver for removing hair elastics quickly and safely. Instead of tugging and pulling, (which can cause tears and upset kiddos) this little tool slides under the band and cuts it without damaging the hair. I always keep one on hand during rehearsals and competitions, especially when we need to switch hairstyles fast. It makes taking out elastics clean and painless, and keeps everyone’s hair (and relationship with their children) healthy in the process.

Bobby Pins:
Bobby pins are a dance team essential! I literally keep a stash in every bag, on every shelf, and even in my pocket!
This is the perfect pack of bobby pins for dance teachers. I love that I can easily grab a pin for any hair color and it's going to match seamlessly. There's also the choice for parents to just choose the color that they need. Let's be honest, are you even a dance parent, dancer or instructor if you don't have a bucket of bobby pins at your disposal at any given time?

Solid FREEZE spray:
Got2b Glued is my “nothing is moving, not even in a hurricane” hairspray. It’s the only hairspray I’ve ever found that truly holds all day through competitions, long rehearsals, quick changes, sweaty numbers, you name it. When we need hair to stay rock-solid, this is the one I reach for every single time. It locks everything in place and keeps every little flyaway exactly where it’s supposed to be. Once this is on, that hairstyle is staying put until you wash it out. Perfect for performance days when we need absolute reliability.

Hair Gel:
I’ve finally found a gel that holds all day without drying into flakes! I love using it for dance hairstyles and even for my son’s everyday hair. It works especially well running through a ponytail before braiding, helping grab and control every strand. I pair it with GOT2B hairspray for a style that really stays put. It’s a slightly wet gel, which makes it easy to comb through and shape before it dries. It's definitely not a stand-alone product, but a great team player in your dance hair routine.

Caboodle:
A Caboodle is my go-to for keeping all hair and makeup supplies organized and in one place. As a 90s kid, there’s just something about opening one of these that feels nostalgic, and it’s super practical! Perfect for storing everything from brushes and hair ties to hairspray and makeup, it keeps your kit tidy and easy to grab when getting the team ready for rehearsals or performances.

Competition Dance Makeup Must Haves (& Studio B requirements)

Eyeshadow Palette: (team requirement)
This is the ELF Bite Sized eyeshadow palette in the color "cream and sugar"- and it's been the ROCK to creating my signature Studio B makeup look for all 6 years I've owned my studio. Let's talk about why I love it! 1. This palette super affordable. 2. The colors are PERFECT for creating a show stopping look for any performance location.
3. They blend effortlessly, layer super well, and are overall a really great quality shadow. We use a great YouTube tutorial for this eyeshadow look- and year after year we keep coming back for this timeless essential.
Check out my future posts for all of my favorite video tutorials using this palette.

Lipstick: (team requirement)
The Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink lip colors have been absolute game-changers for our performance makeup! I've been using them for all 6 seasons- and have loved every shade I've tried. As a mom, I love how easy they apply- the applicator tip allows me to line the lips to get a smooth line every time. They stay put through smiles, turns, quick changes, and even water breaks. This year, each company group gets its own shade to best compliment their costumes. Here’s what we're using:
Mini Co. – Shade 150 “Pathfinder”
Petite Co. – Shade 80 “Ruler”
Senior Co. – Shade 340 “Exhilarator”
These lipsticks don’t budge (seriously!) making them one of my favorite reliable products for competition days.

Foundation:
This is the Shine Cosmetics BB cream and I'm obsessed. I love that they're a Utah company and it doesn't irritate my super sensitive skin. This is the foundation that I wear day to day- and it's also my go-to foundation for my dancers on their performance day. I use a combination of the shades awaken for the base and empowered as a contour/bronzer. This BB cream is super smooth, buildable and lasts all day. I like that it's lightweight and breathable, and doesn't leave the skin feeling cakey or crusty.

Concealer:
This is the elf hydrating camo concealer. I love this for under eyes and blemishes. This concealer has become one of my quiet heroes in the makeup kit. It blends so smoothly, gives amazing coverage, and keeps the dancers looking bright and fresh under those intense stage lights. I love that it’s hydrating! Nothing cakey or drying- just a nice, clean finish that holds up through long rehearsals and performance days. It’s affordable, dependable, and honestly just one of those products I reach for without even thinking about it.

Liquid Blush:
It's no surprise at this point that I love elf products. This has quickly become one of my favorites- even in my own personal makeup routine. I like to use this elf liquid camo blush underneath my powders- it goes on right after the foundation and concealer to give a smooth first layer of color. I've found that this really sets me up for success in building a dynamic face look that really shows on stage. The powder bronzer and blush go on super smooth over top of all of the liquid products to round out the full look. It's been a product I've skipped in the past, and regretted missing this crucial step.

Bronzer:
This Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer is such a staple in our performance makeup kit. It gives the dancers that warm, healthy glow without ever looking muddy or overdone—just a soft, natural warmth that looks amazing under stage lights.
(I wear it in my normal day to day makeup as well). It blends effortlessly seriously, you barely have to try, smells like a beach day, and lasts through long rehearsal blocks and full competition days. It’s one of those products that makes every makeup look feel a little more polished and put together.

Eyeliner:
This eyeliner pen is my go-to for getting those clean, sharp lines that read beautifully from the stage. It’s super easy to control (even for shaky hands)so creating a smooth wing or defining the lash line doesn’t feel intimidating. The color is bold, the tip stays precise, and it holds up through long rehearsal days, quick changes, and plenty of dancing. My favorite tip: have your dancer lay down with their head in your lap while you apply it. You get a much better angle for drawing on the line or wing, and it makes the whole process so much easier and more accurate.

Eyebrow pencil:
This Elf (no surprise) eyebrow pencil is a simple but essential tool in our makeup kit- especially for my dancer, who’s blonde with really light eyebrows. It fills in sparse areas quickly, blends effortlessly, and gives just enough definition so her expressions don’t get washed out under stage lights. My biggest tip: be careful not to go too dark with the color (it’s easy to overdo it) and we want the brows to look naturally polished, not harsh. The formula isn’t too waxy or too soft, making it perfect for creating a soft, stage-ready look.

Real Techniques Face brushes & Beauty Blender:
I’m not exaggerating when I say that these brushes have been treated like my babies. I've loved them and can't do my dancer's face makeup without them. I love that the entire set comes with everything I need for competition makeup and it EVEN comes with a beauty blender (essential for the liquid makeup). The brushes are soft, easy to work with, and make blending foundation, bronzer, or powder feel way less like a wrestling match. The Beauty Blender is a lifesaver for liquid products which means no more “patchy streaks of panic.” I use this set religiously- and I feel super professional while doing it.

Makeup bag:
Okay, so I know earlier I recommend the caboodle- which I totally still do. But sometimes, I have a bunch of makeup overflow and love to be able to just throw everything in a bag. I have this bag in the large size and take it everywhere with me. It's soft, washable and way bigger inside than you'd expect. If you're needing an inexpensive bag to just throw all of your products into- this one is for you.

Blush:
This Milani Baked Blush is one of my absolute favorites for performance days. It has a gorgeous range of shades that work beautifully on any skin tone, which makes it so easy to create a cohesive look across the whole team. The formula gives the prettiest natural flush with a soft glow, and it’s totally buildable- so if we need a little boost as the day goes on, I can add more without it ever looking heavy. It blends like a dream, lasts all day, and is always the perfect finishing touch to our Studio B makeup look.

Mascara:
Our little's don't wear false lashes, so they need a really strong and buildable mascara- and this Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara is just the thing. I love that I can layer (quickly before my daughter gets grumpy with me) and it comes together so fast with a long and full eyelash look that stays all day. Our older dancers wear false lashes, and this makes for a great base before gluing on strip or cluster lashes.

False lashes:
False lashes are a total game-changer for stage makeup—they make the eyes pop, photograph beautifully, and give that polished, professional finish we want for performances. They’re required for both Petite and Senior Company, and they make such a difference in how expressive the dancers look under bright lights.
I always recommend choosing lashes that add volume without being too heavy, so they stay comfortable through long rehearsal days and full competition weekends. Once they’re on, the whole makeup look instantly levels up!

Eyeshadow brushes:
These Real Techniques brushes are some of my absolute favorites- I'm on my fourth season using these for my dancer, and they've held up amazingly. The bristles are soft but hold their shape perfectly, making blending, layering, and precise application so much easier. This pack comes with every size and shape brush you need for our team eyeshadow look, so you’re fully equipped to get that smooth, professional finish. They work beautifully with both powder and cream shadows, and having reliable brushes like these makes the whole process cleaner, quicker, and way less frustrating!

Setting Spray:
If you’ve ever had a dancer come off stage looking like their makeup ran a marathon, this spray is your new best friend. A few spritzes and voila- everything stays put! It’s lightweight, dries quickly, and keeps the look matte without feeling like a mask. I have super sensitive skin, and this has never left me feeling itchy or dry, which is a huge win. I don’t just use it for performances- it's my go to anytime I need my makeup to feel done and stay put.

Makeup remover:
Finally- the last essential that some people tend to forget. Remember how I've been recommending products that last forever, even in hurricanes? Well, eventually those have to come off. Micellar water is the only product that I've found that removes that magical all day lipstick that we use. It's a clean product, easy to transport and use with a cotton pad, paper towel, wipe, washcloth, whatever- and works every single time. I especially love that my face doesn't feel dry after I've wiped everything away.

0 Comments

behind the barre: studio b insights + inspiration

How to Keep Dance Costumes Looking Amazing All Season: Simple Tips for Busy Dance Families

2025-2026 Company Team Hair & Makeup

Makeup

Makeup Video Tutorials

Hair

Competitive Dance Essentials- buying guide (with links!)

Competition Dancer Essentials: Hair & Makeup

Hair Essentials

Competition Dance Makeup Must Haves (& Studio B requirements)

Author

Archives

Categories