What To Wear Swing Dancing
Are you in a pickle trying to figure out how to dress for swing dancing? The tastiest swing dance clothes to wear for dance class are the ones that have that timeless look, like swing dresses, skirts, blouses for girls, and trousers and nice shirts for guys. The best items for swing dance classes are made from super comfy materials that won’t make you sweat during class or when you’re social dancing after the lesson. And don’t forget about shoes – if you go for ones with leather or suede soles, you’ll be able to slide and spin easily on the dance floor.
Check out the selections below to give you ideas on what to wear to your first swing class lesson. If all else fails, a comfy blouse and jeans looks cute no matter what you are doing.
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Jump down to What Men Wear Swing Dancing
12 Beautiful Examples Of Clothing Women Lindy Hoppers Wear On The Dance Floor
Lindy Hop is a lively, energetic dance style that originated in the United States in the 1920s and 1930s and has since gained popularity around the world. In general, Lindy hoppers who know what to wear swing dancing, wear comfortable, flexible clothing that allows them to move freely and easily. Here are some common types of vintage swing dance dresses and more that women may wear.
Lindy Hop Dresses
Try these 12 affordable options for dancing: Swing dance dresses are often knee-length or just above the knee and have a full, flowing skirt that allows for a lot of movement. They may have a fitted bodice and a flared skirt, or they may be more A-line in shape.
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- Vintage A-Line Keyhole Swing Dress
- Skater Dress
- Tea Dress
Skirts
Women may also wear skirts or maxi skirts for Lindy Hop. These skirts are often full and flowing, and may have a high waist to allow for easier movement. - Pleated Midi Chiffon A-line Swing Skirt
A beautiful, flowy skirt for creating some dance magic
- High-Waisted A-Line Skirt With Pockets
Pretty, twirly skirt
- High-Waisted Satin A Line Flared Midi Skirt
A skirt with a high slit looks great when you are dancing, especially when you learn swivels
Blouses
Lindy hop blouses are often loose and flowy, with short sleeves or sleeveless styles being popular. They may be tucked into a skirt or left untucked over a pair of pants or a skirt. - 1950s Retro Short Sleeve Blouse
- Turndown Collar Blouse
- Tie-Neck Blouse
- Palazzo Pants
- High-Waist Double-Breasted Wide Leg Pants
- Capri Pants
- Vintage A-Line Keyhole Swing Dress
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Womens Swing Dance Shoes
Many Lindy hoppers choose to wear shoes with a low heel or no heel at all, and most importantly, shoes that have a smooth sole to allow for easy sliding and turning. Don’t wear sneakers or rubber soles to dance, it can cause a lot of issues with your knees and they won’t allow you to glide around the floor. Examples of shoes that are popular for Lindy Hop include loafers, oxfords, and dance sneakers like Keds and Toms.
Keds shoes
The most popular shoes (for women and men) you will see on the dance floor. They come in practically every color and are only about $30 – sweet!
4 Affordable Vintage Swing Dance Dress Styles Seen On The Dance Floor
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- Vintage Cocktail Dress: 1920s-style swing dress: These dresses may have a more relaxed, bohemian feel, with a flowing, A-line silhouette and a dropped waist. They may have a v-neckline, short sleeves, or other vintage-inspired details.
- Bow-Tie Swing Dress: 1930s-style swing dress: These dresses may have a more structured, tailored fit, with a fitted bodice and a full, flared skirt. They may have a high waist and a straight, narrow neckline, as well as details like pleats or gathers.
- A-Line Party Dress: 1940s-style swing dress: These dresses often have a more fitted silhouette and may feature a nipped waist and a full, flared skirt. They may have a sweetheart neckline, cap sleeves, or other vintage-inspired details.
- Ruched Swing Midi Dress: 1950s-style pin-up dress: These dresses may have a vintage-inspired look, but may also incorporate more modern elements, such as a fitted, bodycon silhouette or a high-low hemline. They may feature bold patterns, bright colors, or other eye-catching details.
- Vintage Cocktail Dress: 1920s-style swing dress: These dresses may have a more relaxed, bohemian feel, with a flowing, A-line silhouette and a dropped waist. They may have a v-neckline, short sleeves, or other vintage-inspired details.
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18 Items Of Clothing Men Wear Swing Dancing
It’s important for men to wear clothing that is comfortable and allows for a full range of movement, as swing dancing can be physically demanding. Costume wear – like zoot suits – aren’t seen on the dance floor that often. Many dancers also choose to wear clothing that reflects the vintage style of Lindy Hop, such as trousers, vests and suspenders. If you are looking for styling help for what to wear swing dancing, this is an excellent start.
Slacks
Slacks or trousers that are made of lightweight, breathable fabric are a good choice for swing dancing. Avoid clothing that is too baggy or restrictive. Men may also wear pants that are comfortable and allow for a full range of movement, such as chinos or jeans.
Button-down shirts
A button-down shirt or a polo shirt can work well for swing dancing. Choose a shirt that is comfortable and allows you to move freely.
Vests
A vest can add a stylish touch to your swing dancing outfit and can also help keep you cool on the dance floor.
Suspenders
Suspenders can help keep your pants in place while you dance and can also add a touch of vintage style to your outfit.
Men’s Swing Dance Shoes
Besides comfortable clothing, there’s nothing more important than a good pair of shoes that allow you to slide around the dance floor. While sneakers might seem like a good choice, their rubber soles can stick to the floor and put unnecessary strain on your knees. Instead, try looking for shoes with hard, leather soles or smooth bottoms that offer a slippery surface for effortless movement. Some men prefer wearing Vans as they tend to slide a bit on the dance floor, but ultimately, it’s important to find what works best for you and keeps you injury-free.
Belts
Just like suspenders, wearing a belt can help keep your pants up while you dance and can add a stylish touch to your outfit.
Ties
If you want to dress up a bit for swing dancing, a tie can be a nice accessory.
Fedoras
If you are attending a formal event or competition, you may want to dress up a bit more, and choose to wear a hat, while if you are dancing at a casual social dance, a more relaxed outfit may be more appropriate. It’s up to your personal style!
Perhaps the most important item for swing dancing is a good attitude! Many people won’t dress up in vintage or swing clothing one night and then be dressed to impress the next night, so it’s really up to you how you want to present yourself. Swing dancing is all about having fun and enjoying the music, so coming out with an open mind and a willingness to have a great time is all that is necessary.
Ready to dive into the exciting world of Lindy Hop tonight? You can start your journey by selecting a Lindy Hop lesson from our website at https://www.swingdancingphoenix.com.
Is swing dancing good for beginners? Find out the hot questions everyone has but doesn’t know who to ask before they try their first swing dance class.