Home What to Wear What to Wear for Swing Dancing: Outfit Ideas

What to Wear for Swing Dancing: Outfit Ideas

by Neli

Swing dance outfits can be as lively and energetic as the dance itself. From vintage-inspired classics to modern takes on swing dancing attire, we’ve got you covered with the best outfit ideas and styling tips to keep you twirling, swaying, and shimmying in style.

Outfit Ideas for Women

Classic swing dancing attire

Classic swing dancing attire

A stunning blues dancing attire for women begins with the elegant combination of a blue chiffon bandage blouse and a dark blue nylon midi skirt. This chic pairing not only complements your dance moves but also exudes a timeless charm. Complete the look with a pair of vintage oxford shoes. Be ready to impress on the swing dance floor.

A-line skirts

A-line skirts

Start with a tight pinstripe round neck shirt, which offers a flattering fit and a touch of vintage charm. Pair it with a lush red satin a-line skirt that flows gracefully to the ankle, creating a captivating silhouette as you glide across the dance floor. Complete the look with a pair of black stiletto shoes for added elegance and a double bracelet to accentuate your wrist movements. This outfit is sure to turn heads and make you feel like a star among dancers.

High-waisted pants

High-waisted pants

Opt for a transparent ruffle collar chiffon blouse to add a touch of femininity and elegance, while high waisted straight pants in terracotta provide a comfortable fit for those dynamic dance moves. Enhance the outfit with beige open-toed shoes. Don’t forget to accessorize with a pair of vintage sunglasses, adding a hint of retro charm to your country swing dancing look.

Blouses and fitted tops

Blouses and fitted tops

Pair a dark blue trapeze skirt with a pink short-sleeved blouse for a delightful pop of color that accentuates your dance moves. To tie the ensemble together, slip into a pair of vintage blue and white shoes. This west coast-inspired look will have you twirling and swirling in true swing dancing fashion.

Outfit Ideas for Men

Classic swing dancing attire

Classic swing dancing attire

Pair 1930s style brown checkered woven men’s pants with a crisp white shirt for a timeless base. Add a touch of sophistication with a matching brown bow-tie and elevate your footwear game with oxford shoes in tan leather, featuring a classic toe cap. Top off your look with a stylish brown Cap Kangol, giving you that perfect blend of old-school charm and modern flair for your swing dancing class.

Dress pants for ballroom dancing

Dress pants for ballroom dancing

Combine black dress pants with a crisp white shirt for a timeless and sophisticated look that allows you to focus on mastering those dance moves. Complete your outfit with a pair of black patent leather shoes, offering both elegance and comfort as you glide across the dance floor. This refined yet simple look is perfect for making a lasting impression during your swing dance lessons.

Button-down shirts and vests

Button-down shirts and vests

Choose a light purple dot print dress shirt as the base, adding a touch of whimsy and color to your ensemble. Layer a dark purple vest over the shirt for a refined, well-coordinated appearance, and pair it with matching dark purple pants. This striking combination not only showcases your flair for fashion but also sets you apart on the dance floor, transforming your look into a memorable costume for any swing dancing event.

Suspenders

Suspenders

Pair black skinny pants with black suspenders to achieve a modern yet timeless look, and add a crisp white shirt as a versatile base. For a pop of color, accessorize with an ice peach bow-tie that adds an element of playful sophistication. Round off the outfit with a pair of sleek black shoes.

Clothing Style: General Tips

Choose breathable fabrics: Opt for clothes made from natural, breathable materials like cotton or linen blends to keep you cool while dancing.

Prioritize comfort and mobility: Select clothes that offer a full range of motion, without being overly constrictive or distracting.

Keep it casual for practice: There’s no need to dress up for class or practice sessions. Wear comfortable, lightweight clothes that allow for maximum movement.

Embrace vintage style: For more formal events, consider wearing vintage-inspired clothing that reflects the era when swing dancing was popular, such as high-waisted shorts, A-line skirts, or vintage dresses from the 1940s and ’50s.

Use layers for menswear: Men can add a touch of formality by layering vests, dress shirts, ties, and jackets, depending on the weather and occasion.

Wear dance shorts under skirts: To avoid distractions and maintain modesty, wear dance shorts under skirts, dresses, and kilts.

Bring an extra shirt: Since swing dancing can be a workout, it’s a good idea to bring a spare shirt or dress to change into if you get too sweaty.

Prioritize comfortable shoes: Choose shoes that are comfortable and have leather or suede soles for easy sliding and turning on the dance floor.

What Shoes Should I Wear to Go Swing Dancing?

Shoes For Women

Opt for a flat sole or medium heel with a large diameter: This will provide better stability and comfort, allowing for easier movement on the dance floor.

Leather soles are the best choice: Leather soles provide the perfect balance between grip and slip, making it easier to spin and move smoothly during swing dancing.

Shoes For Men

Choose shoes with leather soles: Similar to women’s footwear, leather soles are ideal for swing dancing as they provide the right balance between grip and slip for smooth movement.

If opting for sneakers, consider modifying them: If you prefer wearing sneakers, consider adding leather soles to them for a better dancing experience.

Men’s leather dress shoes work well: As long as they don’t have rubber soles, men’s leather dress shoes are a suitable choice for swing dancing.

What to Avoid

Salsa shoes with high heels: The lack of support and stability make these unsuitable for Swing dancing.

Sandals or slippers: These types of shoes don’t provide enough support or stability and may easily slip off your feet during vigorous movements.

Super sparkly or gaudy shoes: More suitable for ballroom dancing, these can be distracting and not in line with the Swing aesthetic.

Sneakers with rubber soles: Despite their casual appearance, sneakers with rubber soles can also be problematic as they hinder spinning and may cause sticking to the floor.

Shoes with poor arch support: Proper arch support is essential for comfort and injury prevention, so avoid shoes that don’t provide adequate support.

Slip-on shoes without secure fastenings: Shoes that aren’t securely fastened to your feet can easily come off during dance moves, causing potential accidents on the dance floor.

You may also like