What do you wear to swing dance lessons?

Swing dance is an increasingly popular style of ballroom dance with a dress code that reflects its roots in the 1920s-1940s jazz era. Although many studios don’t require historically accurate costumes for their private dance lessons, many dancers want to dress the part. You can wear clothes that are comfortable to move — and sweat — in, such as T-shirts and loose skirts or khakis. Or for an appropriately vintage look, women often wear shirt dresses with a knee-length A-line or circle skirt that allows for plenty of swishy movement. Men usually opt for a button-down shirt and trousers. The most important part of a swing dance outfit is the shoes. Both men and women can opt for simple sneakers, like Keds, or leather dance shoes, such as saddle shoes. Until you have several dance lessons under your belt, stay away from heels.