Dance, as an artistic and athletic activity, can present difficulties when deciding what to wear! Comfort and the ability to move is essential, but above all, it is important to feel both confident and comfortable in your attire, so you can focus on what's important—the endless possibilities waiting for you on the dance floor.
Here are some suggestions for what to wear to a ballroom class or lesson!
Leaders
A good pair of dance pants is an essential—once you have a great pair of chinos or slacks, there are ample options for what to wear on top! Many dance pants will still have pockets - wohoo! - a great spot to throw in a small notebook or phone to keep up with your practice schedule.
- Short/long button-up shirts
- T-shirts (cotton-blend or moisture-wicking)
- Polos
- Layering pieces such as vests or sweaters (great for transitions between seasons and cold dance studios!)
- White Short Sleeve Button Down - Target - $19.99
- Slim Fit Non-Iron Dress Shirt - Banana Republic - $55
- Seamless Performance Tee - Zella - $39
- Strato Tech Polo - Vuori - $54
- Men’s Latin Pants with Satin Stripe - DanceShopper - $195
- Boys and Mens Dance Pants - Amazon - Prices Vary
- ABC Pants - Lululemon - $128
- Meta Pant - Vuori - $98
- Hooded open cardigan with curved hem in khaki - ASOS - $32
Followers
- Dresses (non-restrictive dresses that allow movement are important as they that allow you to see your body in motion)
- Tops (leotards, fitted t-shirts, and breathable blouses)
- Bottoms (fitted, comfortable slacks, wide-leg pants, non-restrictive skirts)
- Layering pieces such has sweaters or cardigans (great for transitions between seasons and cold dance studios!)
- Women’s Fringe Latin Skirt – Amazon - $29.99
- Women’s V-Neck Ballroom/Smooth Dress - $66.93
- Show Me the Back Fringe Dress – ZYM Dance Style - $69
- All Yours Pants – ZYM Dance Style - $39
- High-Rise Paperbag Ankle Pants - Target - $27.99
- Black Satin One-Shoulder Blouse – ASOS - $29
- Long-sleeve V-Neck Bodysuit – ASOS - $19
- Dance Studio Jogger – Lululemon - $98
- All Tied Up Tank Top – Lululemon - $44
Shoes
Dance shoes are the one piece of equipment that we as dancers need. Consider investing in a comfortable and high-quality pair of dance shoes. Are you a brand new dancer? A pair of tennis shoes that move well, or something with a suede sole will work just fine for the beginning of your dance journey!
Attire to Avoid
- Non-ballroom shoes that are slip on, high-heels, flip-flops.
- Clothing such as jeans that is too fitted and restricts movement.
- Anything that will make you overheat!
Above all, comfort and confidence is key. These suggestions can serve as guidance, but remember to stay true to yourself and what you feel best in.
