About Western Dance Costumes

Some of the most fun and energetic dancing comes from America's Western plains. Square dancing remains popular because of its easy instructions and crowd-pleasing style, but other types of Western dance can also be found on the dance floor. Whether it be in a barn, in someone's garage or at a formal competition, Western dance costumes should match the excitement of the dance and be alive with the Western style.

Women

Women's Western dance costumes usually consist of a fitted top and flared skirt. The top can be denim or another material and is often embellished with scrolled embroidery, rhinestones or other flashy designs. The bottom half of the women's costume can be a fringed mini-skirt, a longer slit skirt or a pouffy number complete with layered petticoats. Skirts also can be made of denim or any other material and may feature embroidery or novelties. Red is a popular Western color for women, and it contrasts well with a man clad all in black.

Men

Men look dashing while dancing in Western wear that is as embellished as the ladies' outfits. While his tight-fitting top and slacks may be all black, they can have fringe down the arms and legs, and sport designs made of studs or silver stones. For the dressed-down dancer, a pair of denim jeans and a Western-cut shirt will do, as long as the jeans are stretchy and roomy enough for the man to move freely.

Accessories

Western dancers look great sporting a cowboy hat, but the hats can be an unnecessary bother. Other accessories with less of a chance of flying into the crowd include embellished, suede or leather vests, bandannas tied around the wrist or neck, and a bolo or Western tie. Chaps may look good, but they make for some clunky dancing, unless they are specifically designed or altered to allow free dance movement.

Shoes

Cowboy boots are appropriate with either men or women's Western dance costumes, but they can make it hard to pull off some moves. If cowboy boots are chosen as dancing shoes, make sure the leg area is roomy enough to bend and freely maneuver the leg. Ensure the heels are solid enough to spin around in, and definitely pay attention to the bottom of the boot. It should be smooth and free of any dust, dirt and horse leftovers. Cowboy dance boots specifically made for performing are another option, as are traditional dance shoes with a saddle shoe or leather scroll design.

Warning

As jingly and jangly as Western dance costumes should be, they should also be fully functional. Make sure the hat fits snugly and is not apt to fly off the head during ambitious dance moves. Make sure other accessories, such as fringe, badges, pins and ties, are properly secured to prevent losing them on the dance floor. As cool and Western as spurs may be, dancers should leave them home unless they have the money to replace the dance floor once the spurs rip it up.