Traditionally, there are certain skirt types associated with the different Latin American dances. Broadly, they would be as follows:
Rumba
A long, figure-hugging, high-split skirt or a revealing chiffon skirt
Paso Doble
A long circular skirt reminiscent of the matador’s cape (which the follower represents in the dance). Often in red and black
Cha Cha Cha
A short ruffle skirt or a short fringe skirt
Samba
A multi-layered frill skirt or a short fringe skirt
Jive
A short circular skirt or a short fringe skirt
Ever-evolving, there is very little that is traditional about Latin American competition dancing these days and there are no dress style rules (for adults) regarding the different dances. So, whilst it is fun to acknowledge the traditional look of the dances, you are free to wear a broad range of Latin dress styles.
Given that most amateur competitors are looking for one dress to dance all of the Latin dances in, I am often asked what style would make a good “generic” dress. The first consideration is, of course, establishing which style of dress makes you feel most confident. With lots of time out of hold, Latin American dancing requires confidence and showmanship and so my question back to a client is, “which style makes you feel bold and ready to show-off?”.
At Obsession Dancewear, I spend a lot of time considering movement when I design a dress whether it be the movement of a full Ballroom skirt or of a multi-layered fringe Latin skirt. Movement is key, it exaggerates spins and hip action and helps the dancer appear more dynamic on the dancefloor.
Perhaps the most versatile Latin skirt design, both traditionally and still today, is the fringe skirt. So, if under pressure, I am forced to answer the question about the best “generic” skirt design, I choose fringe.
At Obsession Dancewear we have a range of different Latin dance dress styles to suit all tastes.
