Having the right accessories is a must for every dancer. These small things will help you get prepared, fix your clothes in case of an emergency, put your makeup on and much more. Having a few of these in the bag, such as cosmetic mirrors, bobby pins and glitter, can save you a lot of trouble.
Makeup Mirror
Having a mirror in your bag will give you an opportunity to do your makeup no matter where you are. There are so many options on the market because of high demand, that it’s often hard to choose your favourite. However, there are a few key factors to consider when you’re looking for practical and functional cosmetic mirrors.
Magnification is key. It’ll make it easier to draw on any details, such as eyeliner or shaping your eyebrows. Different models have different magnification levels, but they usually range from 2x up to 10x. The 2x or 3x is good for general application because it gives you a broader view. The 5x magnification will suit intricate tasks like applying mascara.
If you want to apply some precise makeup, lighting is crucial. Natural light is the best of course. However, when you can’t find it, it’s better to invest in a mirror with LED lighting which can mimic daylight very well. Some models even come with adjustable brightness levels so you can customise it to your needs.
The size and the shape of the mirror should match your needs and preferences. With larger ones, you get a full-face view, which is great when you do a full-face makeup. Smaller mirrors are easily portable and great when you’re in smaller, enclosed spaces. When it comes to shapes, a round one will give you a symmetrical view, and a rectangular one will give you a wider perspective.
Everything gets modernised, and makeup mirrors are no exception. Newer models have extra features to make your routine simpler and easier and enhance your experience. Certain mirrors have touch-sensitive controls that allow you to change the magnification and brightness. Some of them allow you to snap photos of yourself or even listen to music via Bluetooth while doing your makeup. Plus, some of them have storage compartments for your tools and accessories.
Glitter Spray
Glitter hair spray is a fun and affordable way to add sparkle and personality to your look, especially when it comes to performances. You can find it as sprays, palettes or creams and all of them have different levels of precision. Sprays are easily portable and simple to use. If you’re more skilled, you can go for palettes and creams because they require some precision because of the brush application.
Read the label and always go for glitter that’s cosmetic-grade and non-toxic. Otherwise, your skin and eyes will suffer. The formula should be quick-drying, lightweight, and free from harmful chemicals. Of course, having a good nozzle on the spray can give you a neat and clean application.
This is an accessory that’s perfect when you’re performing at festivals, have dance shows or even when you’re attending a party. It can really make you stand out and show your personality. Whether you prefer subtle shimmer or bold colour, there’s something for everyone.
Sewing Kit
It’s not uncommon for dancers to experience a wardrobe malfunction. It’s not a big deal if it happens during your dance lessons or when practising at home. But when it happens just before the main show, it can be a problem. That’s why it’s a good idea to always have a sewing kit in your bag.
These kits come is small packaging and you can easily fit them in any bag. Despite their size, they can be a lifesaver when a thread decides to go free.
Choose a kit with threads that match your wardrobe colours. Besides the threads, the kit also contains a pack of different-sized needles, scissors, safety pins, extra buttons, soft measuring tape and a seam ripper. A combination of the right cosmetic mirrors and a good sewing kit will help you look flawless each time.
Towels
Dancing is a demanding activity with a lot of movement. All those moves will leave you sweaty at some point. That’s why you should have a couple of clean towels in your bag. Towels come in many sizes. Some dancers prefer the smaller ones because of how compact they are. Some are fans of larger towels because they give them a larger wiping surface.
The main thing about towels is the material they’re made of. Soft, breathable, moisture-wicking materials should be your first choice. Cotton is one of the best options. If you have the budget, invest in premium Egyptian cotton. Another option is a cotton-polyester blend, which is less costly and has the advantage of drying quickly.
Bobby Pins and Hair Bands
Some days, your hair will have its day and won’t stay in place. Using hair spray and a lot of bobby pins is the way to go. Bobby pins are small but important accessories that can make your hair perfect. They’re strong, sturdy and rust-resistant. They come in many sizes and often come in bundles. Bobby pins are an investment worth making, no matter your hairstyle.
You will use hair bands not just for your dancing routine but also on a daily basis. They can keep your hair away from your face in a bun or a simple ponytail. Most of them are made of good materials that won’t damage your hair and come in a plethora of colours. Buying a bundle can save you some money in the long run, and you won’t have to worry about running out of hair bands.
Hair Piece
Hair pieces are very practical, especially for dancers with shorter hair. If you’re one of them, you have a wide range of choices when it comes to colours, lengths and textures. Popular options include lightweight flicked ponytails and curled wiglets made from quality nylon. These pieces are easy to attach and blend naturally when chosen well. Buns are also available for elegant updos and suit all hair lengths. All hair pieces pair beautifully with glitter hair spray for an extra touch of sparkle on stage.