Taking your first dance lesson can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You’re eager to learn some new moves and have fun, but you might also be wondering what to wear. Should you dress up, or keep it casual? Are there any specific clothing requirements for dance classes? In this blog post, we’ll answer all your questions about what to wear to your first dance lesson, so you can feel confident, comfortable, and ready to hit the dance floor!
In short
I recommend wearing comfortable, unrestricting clothing and shoes with a smooth sole for turning. Avoid shoes with a heavy grip, excessively high heels, or shoes without an enclosed back. Good options are sneakers with almost to no grip and dress shoes.
You probably won’t be asked to demand too much of your body in your first lesson. However, as you keep learning to dance you will probably want to dress appropriately for the occasion. So here are some tips…
Why what you wear matters
What you wear to your dance lessons can have a significant impact on your comfort, confidence, and performance on the dance floor. The right clothing can help you move freely, avoid distractions, and feel good about yourself, while the wrong attire can hinder your movements, cause discomfort, and distract you from the dance.
There are three different scenarios where you may need specific clothing for dance lessons: date night, casual dancing, and serious dancing. Here’s what you should wear for each of these scenarios:
Date Night
If you’re going out for a night of dancing with your partner, you want to look good and feel comfortable. A nice outfit that flatters your figure and allows you to move easily is the best choice. For women, a nice and well fitted dress or skirt (avoid a mermaid or tight-fitting skirt/dress) is a good option, paired with comfortable shoes that have a small heel or are flat. For men, a pair of dress pants and a button-down shirt with comfortable shoes is a good choice. I recommend dress shoes if you don’t opt for dance shoes.
Recreational or Social Dancing
If you’re just interested in a casual night of dancing, you want to wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move easily. Jeans or leggings with a loose-fitting top or a T-shirt are a good option. Sneakers or other comfortable shoes that provide good support are also good options, as long as they don’t have an excessive amount of grip.
Competitive Dancing
If you’re a serious dancer or taking dance lessons for the purpose of truly honing your craft, you’ll want to invest in proper dance attire that is designed specifically for your chosen dance style. For Latin, for example, women typically wear short Latin practice skirts, sometimes with fringes to simulate a Latin dress. For Ballroom dance styles like Waltz and Tango you may consider a flowy practice skirt. In general, dancewear should be form-fitting and allow you to move freely without restricting your movements.
In all three scenarios, it’s important to wear clothes that make you feel good about yourself and allow you to move comfortably. Avoid clothes that are too tight or too loose because they can hinder your movements and distract you from the dance. Additionally, make sure your shoes are comfortable, supportive, and appropriate for the dance style you’ll be practicing.
Shoes: The Foundation of your Dance Outfit
Shoes are the most important element of your dance outfit. Not only do they protect your feet from the impact of dancing, but they also allow you to move freely and with proper technique. When it comes to choosing dance shoes, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure they fit properly and are comfortable to wear for an extended period of time. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can lead to blisters, sore feet, and even injuries. Second, choose shoes that are appropriate for the style of dance you will be doing. Different dance styles require different types of shoes, so it’s important to choose ones that will allow you to move in the way you need to. Lastly, consider the style and aesthetic of your shoes. While function should be your top priority, it never hurts to have a pair of stylish dance shoes that make you feel confident and ready to hit the dance floor.
If you’re interested in the market for dance shoes and want to learn more about the best dance shoes to purchase, check out my article on the topic linked below. I explain what’s on the market and list the top dance shoes for a variety of styles and skill levels, so you can find the perfect pair to match your needs and preferences. With the right shoes as your foundation, you’ll be ready to dance your way to success!