Introduction
Choosing what to wear for West Coast Swing can be difficult. You want to look good, but your clothing should be functional and comfortable.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing your dancewear, and we will also provide some guidance to help you choose wisely. Keep in mind that this is mainly for social dancing or classes. Routines and Jack-n-Jill or Strictly competitions have their own rules; we will cover them in another post.
Comfort
No matter what you are doing, it’s important to be comfortable. Comfort is key to any great dance experience. You don’t want clothing that is binding, hot, or can easily catch on your partner.
Breathable Fabrics
Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials. These fabrics will keep you cooler, especially as the night wears on. They should move with you, not against you. Sweat is the bane of every dancer, and the right fabrics are a good first step to being proactive in managing it. Your partners will appreciate It, too.
When I started dancing, I wore a thick, polyester, long-sleeved shirt. As you can imagine, I was drenched in sweat after only a couple of dances. Lesson learned—breathable fabrics are a must!
Some good options for really breathable material are :
- Cotton
- Nylon
- Elastine
- Polyester
- Spandex
Practical Clothing
Your outfit should allow you to move freely. Avoid clothing that can snag or catch on you or your partner. Also, be careful of both clothing and jewelry that can be scratched. Comfortable shoes are important as well.
If you want more information about clothing options, here are a few resources that cover what to wear for West Coast Swing.
What to Wear to Your First West Coast Swing Class
Best Shoes for West Coast Swing
What Not to Wear for WCS Competitions
What to wear for West Coast Swing dances and classes?
The short answer is to wear what you want.
