Snap clips (sometimes called clic clacs or snap hair clips) are small hinged metal or plastic clips used to anchor loose wisps of hair around a ballet bun. They click shut over a thin fold of hair and hold it flat against the bun without bulging under a hair net. A packet of snap clips is one of the most useful items in a dancer’s kit bag.
Snap Clips vs Bobby Pins: What Is the Difference?
Bobby pins are bent metal pins that you slide into the hair — they work by tension. Snap clips have a spring-loaded hinge: you open the clip, place it over the hair and release it so the clip snaps shut. Snap clips are faster to apply, less likely to scrape the scalp, and easier for young dancers to use independently. Bobby pins give slightly more secure hold on very thick or slippery hair.
What Size Snap Clips Do You Need for a Ballet Bun?
For ballet buns, a small snap clip (approximately 4–5 cm) is ideal. Smaller clips are neater under a hair net and less visible in the finished bun. Match the clip colour to your dancer’s hair — black, brown and blonde snap clips are widely available.
How to Secure a Ballet Bun with Snap Clips
After forming the bun, pull any escaping wisps back toward the bun and pin them with a snap clip angled toward the centre. Use two to four clips evenly spaced around the perimeter. Place the hair net over the bun, then add two or three bobby pins through the net into the bun to keep the net from sliding.
How Many Snap Clips Do You Need Per Bun?
Two to four snap clips is usually enough for fine or medium-thickness hair. Very thick or curly hair may need six or more. Buy a packet of at least 20 — clips are easy to lose on studio floors, and having extras saves stress on exam days.
Tips for Exam and Performance Buns
Use light-hold hairspray on the bun before placing the net and clips. This reduces flyaways so fewer clips are needed. Check the bun from the front, side and back — clips should be invisible under the net and the bun should sit centrally on the back of the head.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colour snap clips should I buy for ballet?
Match the clip colour to your dancer’s hair: black for dark hair, brown for mid tones, blonde or clear for fair hair. Most ballet teachers want clips to be invisible against the hair, not decorative.
Can snap clips damage hair?
Snap clips are gentler than tight bobby pins because the spring action distributes pressure evenly. Plastic-coated metal snap clips are the most hair-friendly option.