Ballroom dancing apparel for beginners?

Question

I would like to start taking ballroom dancing lessons. Just wondering what kinds of apparel and shoes are appropriate for someone who is just "starting out" and that aren't too expensive. Any advice?

Answer 1

As the first "investment" in your dancing I highly recommend proper dance shoes, not street shoes. They need to be suede-soled. Also, it is better to have the shoes specifically designed for ballroom. If you are OK with high heels in every-day life you can wear ballroom shoes with high heels right away. If you are more comfortable on a lower heel, get "practice shoes" - you can do all dances in them (meaning both Standard and Latin). You should buy you first pair at a store, where you can get help with fitting.
For your very first couple of lesson it is OK to wear non-marking street shoes. Something like older dress shoes will do. Why older? Well, your beginner partner is highly likely to step on your foot a couplse of times... Also, older shoes are comfortable. Not sneakers, sneakers are designed to grip the floor while you need some ligther tracton, i.e. they are too sticky.

As for clothes - wear somethign comfortable. Just find something that won't restrict your movement and won't keep slipping off your shoulders or falling off in other ways. As you get more into it, it will be easier for you to decide what you like. Some people get leotards, some prefer regular tops. Some people prefer skirts, some prefer stretchy dance pants. If you are going to wear a skirt - make sure you can step in it as wide as you can without it.
Good websites are:
http://www.danceshopper.com
http://www.dancesport.uk.com
http://www.featherdanceshoes.com
http://www.discountdance.com
You can find a lot of similar-looking clothes at the departnet stores, and it will actually work just fine. Shoes - no, you need special suede-soled shoes.

Answer 2

Look for dance shoes as your #1 investment. Try on shoes if you can, but you can probably find the same shoes on-line for less be sure to shop around.

Wear something comfortable to dance in. My site has links to other sites with ballroom dance supplies including practice wear. I find similar skirts or pants at retails stores.

Shop around for a studio also. If you want to save money don't go to franchises that make you sign contracts. They are more expensive. Instructors at independent studios set their own price, just be sure whoever you select suits you and has some credentials to be teaching.

You'll love Ballroom! Have fun

Answer 3

I highly reccomend suede bottom shoes--some studio's actually require them to protect their floors. They keep you from slipping but are still soft enough to make it easy to turn and spin. I have had very good luck buying them online, check out www.dance4less.com (I buy them in my normal shoe size) -- expect to pay about $50.

As for clothes, go to two different local studios and one of them has a "no jeans" dress code. The other one doesn't care and I usually wear jeans there. Have fun!