Dance Etiquette: What Should I Wear?

Following dance floor etiquette helps everyone to have fun. Simply put, it means being courteous and respectful to those around you. It's more important for a social dancer to be a considerate and thoughtful partner than to be a technically expert dancer. Following the rules and suggestions given here will help you to become a successful and appreciated dance partner.


 
Comfortable Clothes
We recommend clean, comfortable clothing that's easy to dance in and won't cause you to overheat. Some dancers like to dress up more for dances, but many don't - it's really your choice. T-Shirts are OK for guys but tank tops are strongly discouraged; most followers do not enjoy resting their arm on their leaders' sweaty arms. Ladies: tops that leave your midriff bare are just as bad. Ladies, if wearing a skirt or dress that may fly up on spins or turns, "full coverage" undergarments are necessary. Dance underwear can be purchased at most dance stores or online.

 
Sweating
Some dancers sweat a little and some sweat a lot. If you're in the latter category, we recommend bring extra shirts in your dance bag. A fresh shirt or at least a toweling off will make you more appealing to your dance partners; it is not fun to dance with a dripping partner. If you find yourself getting too sweaty on the dance floor you should stop, dry off and cool down before asking another partner to dance.

 
Undershirts & Towels
This is only a suggestion, but an undershirt will soak up sweat and the sweat will take longer to reach the outer shirt. While you might feel uncomfortable with a wet undershirt, at least your partner won't have to feel it and you look drier. Many dancers who perspire a lot like to bring along a clean hand towel to wipe the perspiration off between dances. Your next dance partner will appreciate it!

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