what to wear to square dance

3 min read 24-12-2024

Square dancing is a fun, energetic social activity that's enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. But before you hit the dance floor, you might be wondering: what should I wear? The good news is that square dancing attire is relatively casual, prioritizing comfort and freedom of movement. This guide will help you choose the perfect outfit for your next square dance.

The Importance of Comfortable Clothing for Square Dancing

Square dancing involves a lot of movement – hopping, skipping, and twirling! Your outfit needs to allow for a full range of motion without restricting your movements. Avoid anything too tight, restrictive, or bulky. Comfort is key to enjoying yourself and performing your best.

Key Considerations for Your Square Dance Outfit:

Flexibility: Choose clothing that allows for easy bending, stretching, and turning.
Breathability: You'll be working up a sweat, so breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials are ideal.
Durability: Opt for clothes that can withstand some wear and tear from twirling and spinning.
Layering: Dance halls can be warm, but it's wise to layer so you can easily adjust to temperature changes.

What to Wear: Outfit Ideas for Square Dancers

While there's no strict dress code, here are some outfit ideas to get you started:

For Women:

Skirts: A comfortable, knee-length or slightly longer skirt is a popular choice. A-line skirts or flared skirts offer good movement and twirl ability. Avoid excessively short or tight skirts that might restrict movement.
Tops: A simple, comfortable t-shirt, blouse, or tank top works well. Opt for breathable fabrics and avoid anything too loose that might get caught while dancing.
Pants: Comfortable, loose-fitting pants or capri pants are also acceptable, especially for beginners. Choose lightweight, breathable materials.
Shoes: Comfortable, low-heeled shoes with good support and traction are crucial. Avoid high heels, flip-flops, or sandals. Square dance shoes are specially designed for the activity.
Accessories: Keep accessories minimal to avoid them getting in the way. A simple necklace or earrings are fine, but avoid large, dangling jewelry.

For Men:

Pants: Comfortable, loose-fitting jeans or trousers are suitable. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive.
Shirts: A comfortable button-down shirt, polo shirt, or t-shirt will work well.
Shoes: Comfortable shoes with good support and traction are essential. Avoid high-heeled or slippery shoes. Square dance shoes are a good investment.

Footwear: The Foundation of Your Square Dance Outfit

Your shoes are arguably the most important part of your square dance outfit. They need to provide good support and prevent slips and falls.

Square Dance Shoes: Specifically designed with a smooth sole for easy turns and pivots.
Avoid: High heels, open-toed shoes, and anything that could easily slip or come off during dancing.

What NOT to Wear Square Dancing

Restrictive Clothing: Avoid anything too tight, short, or that might ride up during movement.
Heavy Jewelry: Avoid dangling earrings or necklaces that could get caught or pull during dance routines.
Uncomfortable Shoes: Prioritize comfort and support over style. Your feet will thank you.
Anything That Could Be a Hazard: Loose scarves or long shawls could easily get caught on partners or furniture.

Accessorizing Your Square Dance Outfit

While keeping accessories minimal is generally recommended, a few tasteful additions can enhance your outfit:

Comfortable Belt: To secure a skirt or pants.
Hair Accessories: To keep hair out of your face.
A Light Jacket or Sweater: For temperature regulation.

Remember, the most important thing is to wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident so you can focus on enjoying the dance! Choose clothes that allow for free movement and protect your feet. Have a great time on the dance floor!