Latin Dance Wear

Latin dance wear is something that fits completely differently from one body to the next, and from one style of dance to the next. For the samba, a particularly risqué outfit with thin straps and a short skirt, will suit perfectly for the woman. The male partner should wear an open-collard black or white shirt, with tighter-fitting pants than he would for standard dances. The gentleman's wardrobe is similar throughout most Latin dances. Trends of the time should be followed closely, but not so close as to mimic every other dancer on the floor. This year, fringe is king; last season, feathers were popular, but on their way out. A sassy little number with an angled skirt with possibly a couple layers of fringe will be the hit of the dance floor for any rumba, mambo, or cha-cha routine.

Dancers and their partners should practice together as often as possible with any new costume before figuring out whether it will work on the floor or in open competition. Straps will need adjusting, hems lengthened or shortened according to taste and leg length, and so forth. Stronger Latin dances, such as paso doble or flamenco will require much longer skirts with ruffles, and bold colors. Strapless tops are nice, but you must be able to move your arms with ease and confidence, as both styles necessitate quick and sharp movements.

Shopping for new Latin outfits can be daunting, as a lady must try on everything - nothing can be assumed to fit perfectly. If money is no object or if one is attempting to go on to the professional level circuit, custom-made dresses or skirt and shirt combinations will fit like a glove if made properly. This will make them a thousand times more flattering than anything store-bought. You also eliminate any chance that someone else on the floor has the same style of skirt or dress.

Buying online eliminates a lot of the cost issue, but a girl should be familiar with the brand and how it fits. Pay close attention to size listings and measurements before purchasing online, as it is extremely unlikely that anything will be ready to wear as it comes out of the box. It is highly recommended that you buy several sizes from the online retailer and be familiar with the return policy, so that you can be sure to find the best match. And, as with most things, it is best to be on good terms with a fantastic tailor or seamstress.

Never order online any closer than two or three weeks before a performance or competition deadline! While the little yellow dress may be tempting, order a yellow size 2 and 4, as well as a red of the same sizes, so that you might be able to see what you like best and return the rest. It is well worth the extra shipping costs to do this. You may also ask the retailer to see if they offer any shipping deals in exchange for high recommendations to other dancers for their product.