Swing is a fun and energetic dance that should be danced with appropriate clothing and footwear. Follow these tips no matter what kind of dress you wear to dance.
Steps
Step 1. Choose comfortable shoes with smooth soles
There are many shoes made for swing dancing that resemble those of the 30s, 40s and 50s, but which have a smooth leather or suede sole and therefore help to slide and rotate on the dance floor. Avoid shoes with plastic soles, such as trainers, as they cause friction to the ground. Get heels that aren't uncomfortable. High heels are not good for fast swings, jumping and flips. Choose flat or low-heeled shoes for these types of dances. Another convenient option would be to wear dance shoes.
Step 2. Women:
choose loose-fitting, comfortable clothes. Normally women are comfortable wearing knee-length skirts and dresses or light cotton trousers. Do not wear jeans, wool or polyester as they carry a lot of heat. Skirts need to be knee-length or below and loose enough to have that swing motion. Under your skirt or dress, wear shorts, briefs or a leotard in case you perform jumps or flips.
Step 3. Men:
Wear a shirt and baggy pants for an elegant look or a t-shirt and pants for a more casual look. Discard the jeans. Put on a shirt and bring extra shirts in case you sweat a lot.
Step 4. Before dancing, use deodorant, but not perfume or strong aftershave
There is no worse thing than having a bad smell while dancing. Do what you can to stay clean.
Advice
- If you go to a themed dance from the 30s, 40s or 50s, then dress specifically for the occasion. Research a bit on the fashion of those years and dress according to the style indicated. Normally in those years women wore medium or long bell-shaped skirts and blouses or loose and puffy dresses (1950s). The men wore trousers and shirts.
- If you wear long hair, put it back in a ponytail, a braid, so as to avoid hitting your partner during the dance.
- Avoid sweat and use a towel. Some wear headbands or a bandana to restrain it. Bring extra spare shirts.
Warnings
- Men: It's fun to wear a hat, beret or bowler hat for themed dances, but remember to take it off before the prom.
- Women: If you wear a vintage dress to a swing dance, it will fit tight around your waist and arms. You won't be able to raise or open your arms like you do with a modern suit. When you dance, you will have to adapt to the vintage dress.
