A common misconception of country line dancing is the need to dress like George Strait stepping off his tour bus while singing the chorus to All My Ex's Live in Texas. While the traditional attire still exists, not everyone dresses like a country music legend or a cowboy. Many of the bar-goers and dancers do not look like cowboys outside of the venue but enjoy dressing the part as it can add style, help dancers feel more confident, and make everyone feel like a part of the community. According to Statista, the global western wear market was valued at $71.1 billion in 2016 and was predicted to reach $99.4 billion by 2023.
Boots:
Contrary to popular belief, cowboy boots serve a purpose beyond fashion, as many are designed for mobility. There are various styles and brands of cowboy boots with a wide price range. Cowboy boots can be round, square, or pointed-toed with rubber or slick soles. For the purpose of dancing, wearing boots with slick soles is ideal, especially for sliding, spinning, and swing dancing. According to regulars at line dancing venues in the Tampa Bay Area, Spencer's Western World, Boot Barn, BOOTS Buy 1 Get 2 Free, and Russel's Western Wear are the top choices for stores to purchase cowboy boots. For those who aren't ready to splurge on a pair of nice cowboy boots, they usually buy a pair second-hand or from Amazon. However, many skilled dancers prefer dancing in sneakers like Converse or other high tops that provide a slick sole and ankle support.
Bottoms:
The traditional western wear bottoms to wear line dancing are boot-cut blue jeans. The style for women is more diverse with jean shorts, flare jeans, dresses, and skirts with spandex underneath. Many male dancers wear Wrangler or Ariat jeans whereas women wear a much wider range of brands that don't indicate one is more popular than another. The key consideration in selecting your choice of bottoms is comfort. It's essential to avoid bottoms that restrict your mobility while dancing.
Tops & Accessories:
Cowboy hats, belts, and western tops are all traditional, country fashion and accessories for line dancing. Cowboy hats are fashionable and can help dancers connect with the culture but is not necessary. It's important to keep in mind you will likely sweat with a hat on and you might have to take it off while dancing if there are too many people on the dance floor. Some dancers choose a ball cap over a cowboy hat as it's easier to do certain swing dance moves.
As far as wearing a western belt, it can be stylish or simply just to keep your pants up while dancing. All dancers wear various shirts and coverups depending on how cold the building is, how many people will be there, and if they will have somewhere to set down a jacket if they get too warm. You can't go wrong wearing a basic tee and flannel. Just remember, the key to being a good dancer is not in the wardrobe but in the willingness to learn and try new things.
Comentários