This article will talk you through all of the pieces needed to look like a pro when dancing to salsa music! Whether you are just getting into this dance style or already more advanced, we will go over everything you need to know about dress codes, colors, styles, and how to mix and match them.
Making sure your wardrobe is full of appropriate clothing items is an important part of learning salsa. You do not want to spend money on useless junk that you will never use for the dance genre. Plus, finding good quality clothes that fit correctly can be tricky if you are not shopping online yet.
This article will help you find some helpful information.
Keep up with the scene
When attending social dances, what you wear is very important! If you are wearing black leather shoes or dress shoes, it does not look sassy or sexy. You want to know how to pick out appropriate clothing for salsa.
For example, if you see someone in white jeans, they have probably chosen an inappropriate shirt. A skirted shirt is much better because it shows off some of your body types. Also, never go barefoot at a dance event – even if the venue does!
Always check out the venues online before heading down there to ensure no one will be turned away due to poor attire.
Comfort is important
When dancing, there are two main things you have to worry about- yourself and others. If you look good, then your own self confidence will improve as well as that of other people who will enjoy how you look and dance!
This can be tricky at times though because what looks best in one situation may not work in another. Luckily, we have some tips here for you!
Underlayers are a great way to keep warm while also looking cool. There are many brands that offer products such as tights or leggings that are thermal underwears that help regulate body heat. Some even have fashion elements like patterns or color choice!
Thick wool socks are your best bet if you want totally crisp feet. They’ll retain heat longer and look nice too!
If you’re more into flashy clothes than practical ones, then investing in some basic duds that match well and are long-lasting will win you over.
Shoes should be comfortable
When you dance, your feet will get busy! There are many types of dancers in this world, so not all styles require fancy footwear. If you’re just learning how to salsa or tango, then simple shoes with good cushioning and tight lacing can help you feel relaxed and confident on the floor.
Dance sneakers are a great option as they are slightly thicker than normal dancing shoes. A thinner shoe may cause foot pain as it does not provide enough support. Dance socks are also helpful to keep your feet warm and protected from getting wet or dirty while moving.
Try not to wear too much clothing
When you do salsa, there is always something somewhere that someone else can look at and say “what a beautiful dress!” or “wow, those shoes are crazy!” Or even just “ooh, what great layering!”
Sleeping dresses are usually pretty unless they have funny silhouettes which most dancing clothes have. If you find one of these dresses that really fits you well and feels good, then BYE HOT DANCE FLIGHT! You have been saved!
Dressing for dance will also sometimes make people feel self-conscious about their bodies. For example, some people cannot shake the stigma surrounding dancers who eat lots of junk food and are stick-thin. (We know, we’ve seen it.) So, if you see a beautiful person in a lovely dress, maybe give yourself a round of applause and enjoy the show instead of ogling them.
Always wear your favorite outfit
This is probably the most important thing to note! When you are attending séances, there will be other people who will look at you to see what you have on and how you dress.
They may even ask you about an item or two of clothing and want to know if they can try it on or not!
So make sure that you are comfortable in what you are wearing, and add some new pieces to mix things up!
You do not need all-black clothes nor do you need too many patterns, just keep it simple and classic!
The rule of thumb is to wear not what you think will look COOL but will make you feel great about yourself. You can never go wrong there!
Make sure your hair is put into a high bun
For most people, what they wear for salsa depends on how dressed up they are or if it’s just for the night. If you do not have much time, then definitely stay in white or black because those are easy to match!
If however, you do plan on doing some dancing, then you should know about our fashion secrets of the day! We will teach you how to dress like a pro by going through some examples of beautiful looks that can be easily matched and mixed and matched colors.
Never underestimate the power of color matching! It is very possible to mix and match solid shades, hue variations, and even exact same colors. The best way to learn this is by taking lessons from other dancers who do it professionally!
Another way to improve your Salsa style is to pay close attention to the styles of different cultures around the world. Finding pictures and videos of dances done outside of South America is extremely helpful as well! You could also pick up some tips online or from people who have trained under professional instructors before.
Bring your own tissue, and water bottle
Stay hydrated so bring a bottle of water and a tissue or a towel (usually for parties) if you find you sweat more than others.
A little white towel goes a long way at a social. In classes, you won’t have to worry about that as much. Just make sure to bring a bottle of water so you can stay hydrated.
Talk to your friends about what they like to wear
When you want to know how to dress for salsa, talk to your friends! They’ll probably have some of their own clothes or at least tips as to where you can find something similar. You could also go shopping together, although that might not be the best idea if one of you is very fashion-conscious.
The most important thing when buying sizzling party clothing is to feel comfortable in it. If you don’t feel good in it then you won’t enjoy yourself and that’s the whole point!
Another key factor will be whether the other people attending the event are going to appreciate the effort you made to look nice or think you picked up the gauntlet somewhere late last night.
Click here to check our current schedule.
If you have any questions you would like me to answer here are some ways you can contact me: message me on Instagram (torontodanceSalsa), on Twitter (#torontodanceSalsa), on Facebook (Toronto Dance Salsa) or email me at [email protected].