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Dressing the Part of a Swing Dancer
Part of getting the authentic experience of Swing dancing is dabbling in the wonderful costumes that come with this activity. Costumes are a very effective way to give more life and interpretation to a dance. They imbibe more life, enthusiasm and feeling into what could be an otherwise so-so performance. Plus, they’re lots of fun too!
Because of swing dance’s roots dating back to the 1920’s, thirties, forties and fifties, it is only logical to find pieces that are reflective of these periods too. Vintage lovers will have a field day trying to recreate the memorable costumes of these times!
Guys look best in Zoot suits- those with exaggerated wide shoulders that were so popular in the twenties. Paired with wingtip shoes and fedora hats, they are bound to make a statement no matter what number they perform. Girls can enjoy flirty numbers complimented by flared skirts. Complete the look with crimped hair and make-up that emphasize the eyes and the audience will be in for a treat!
A nod to everything Western is more than appropriate for those who like to indulge in the Western swing. Here, Western shirts and Gingham, adorned with a Stetson or any other cowboy hat, provide a colorful and apt display.
Another idea is to look for inspiration from the thirties and consider a truly glamorous look. This is be achieved by beaded dress for the girls and slicked back hair for the guys! A fun option would be to pay homage to the swing dances popularized in the fifties and show up in denim or leather jackets for the guys and poodle skirts, cardigans, ponytails and bobby socks for the ladies.
The choices for costumes are endless and so are the sources! Anyone can start out in his own closet and look for pieces that are inspired by any of these decades. Garage sales, the Salvation Army, thrift and vintage shops may also prove to be a treasure trove of attires. The local costume store may also be of a great help and specialty stores will be more than familiar to what you are looking for!
Dress your way and dance your way into your swing dance. Regardless of budget, taste and preference, there is a perfect costume for you. Limited only by your creativity and imagination, the exciting world of swing dance dressing is yours to discover!
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