Ballroom dance is a dance form that personifies grace and elegance with the most classy and chic moves performed to perfection by the ballroom dancers. Ballroom Dance is like a mellifluous melody on stage where the man and the woman lose themselves and dance in unison as they twirl and swerve together.
What is Ballroom Dancing ?
The term ‘ballroom dance’ encompasses a number of partner dances, which have their origins in the Western world. Ballroom dancing is now a very popular dance form and is enjoyed both socially as well as competitively around the globe. Ballroom dancing competitions are very popular for the participants, the judges, view. Over the years, there have been many variants of the original ballroom dancing style in terms of the dance movements, the costumes and the overall style, however there are a few standard forms that are very popular. The standard international ballroom dance form includes the slow Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Slow Foxtrot and Quickstep. Whereas the international Latin ballroom dancing style includes the Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive.
Ballroom Dancewear
Although the real beauty of ballroom dancing lies in its moves and postures, there are a few other elements that enhance the beauty of ballroom dancing - yes the dancewear. Right from the style length and color of the dress to the comfort and aesthetics of the footwear, every little thing matters! Ballroom dancewear has to be dazzling, elegant and comfortable all at the same time. The ballroom dancewear should be such that it brings out and enhances the beauty of the dance moves. For example a simple dress that has the right amount of flow to it can enhance the beautiful turns and swishes of a lady’s moves. On the other hand, a dress that completely masks the dance moves or even worse makes it difficult or uncomfortable for the dancer to perform are out of question.
Ballroom Dancewear for Women
There lie a wide variety of options for women while they are hunting for their perfect ballroom dancing dress. The silks, satins and chiffons, even the fabric choices are plenty.
Gowns and Dresses: A perfect ballroom dance gown or a dress can actually make you look beautiful and enhance your overall performance. Choose the right dress that will suit your body structure, hide your problem areas and accentuate the best features. You can choose, chiffon, silk, or even lycra. A costume that is custom-made with a combination of two or more types of fabrics can be a great idea, since fabrics like lycra can provide a comfortable fit whereas chiffon and silk provide the necessary flows and frills. Winged gowns look absolutely stunning and help bring a subtle touch of elegance to your dance moves. Those of you who have a slouching problem should preferably go for a dress that does not expose your back, since that might highlight the slouch. Also make sure that the length of the dress isn’t too long or too short. A dress that is too short might highlight the minutest mistakes during the dance whereas a very long gown cannot just hide your dance steps but also impede your movement while dancing.
The Skirt: Ball room dance skirts are either asymmetrical in shape or have a slit at one or both sides. Layered skirts with the use of fabrics that have a good flow and textures are in vogue. Attractive embellishments, designs and embroideries always enhance the look of any ordinary skirt however too much of intricate work should be avoided especially if the stitches are loose and there is a fear of beads falling off. The length of the skirt should suit the style of ballroom dancing, which changes with every form.
The TopThe tops worn by women during ballroom dance are usually fitted tops. Open backs with crossed spaghetti patterns at the back or even a tube top with sequins and stones can look absolutely stunning. Layered tops can look beautiful if they match your body type. Animal prints on your top can transform you into a dancing diva and beautifully compliment your skirt as well. Match your top with your skirt and team it up with some charismatic silk scarves and beads for the perfect ballroom look.
Ballroom Dancewear for Men
Picking out ballroom dance wear for men can be quite a task. The key to get your basics right and pick out a stunning costume that you will feel comfortable in.
Shirts: Men can have their pick from a wide variety of dress shirts. Do not shy away from dress shirts with sequels and glitter. Unless you feel uncomfortable, generally prefer a V-necked shirt. Stretchy material shorts are the trend in ballroom dancing, but go for it only if you are the best shape. Always see what brings out the best of your features. For the more formal ballroom dancing styles normal shirts with a tie or a tuxedo shirt with bow tie can be worn.
Pants: Sleek pants are preferred in ballroom dancing. The other option is tux pants, which go perfectly well with your tux shirt and bow tie. If at all you want to accessorize, you can sport a shiny belt that accentuates your hip movement.
Ballroom Dance Shoes
Your preparation for ballroom dancing can never be complete without the perfect pair of ballroom dance shoes. The right one can make or break a performance. The shoes should provide the perfect amount of grip and slide which is an essential element of ballroom dancing.
Ballroom Dance Shoes for Women
Women generally go for a good pair of heels or pumps that beautifully compliment their stunning outfits. Women are generally advised to wear closed heels and shoes that strap across the instep. Casual footwear like the sling backs and slip-ons are an absolute no-no. Remember that if you are a beginner and are not used to dancing with pointed heels, you should preferably opt for a low heel. The pumps used for ballroom dance are open along the sides and have a closed toe box. The sandals usually have straps and are open-toed. Usually these dance shoes are made of leather, are very light in weight and have suede soles that ensure the precise slide and grip while moving across the dance floor. Try and pick a pair that gives you the exact combination of comfort and style.
Ballroom Shoes for Men
Latin dance shoes for men are lightweight and flexible oxfords which have a Cuban heel and suede soles. In case you are looking for different color options, you can go for the classy black, the stylish white or the stunning the two-tone spectator ballroom dance shoes. Make sure the fit is snug, and the shoes match your outfit as well as the dance style your will be performing.
Always remember that beautiful attire can only accentuate your dance but cannot be a substitute for rehearsals and practice sessions. So practice your moves and postures to perfection, sport the most beautiful dress and the perfect pair of shoes and shine on the dance floor!
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