What to Wear to a Non-Formal Dance

It's better to be slightly overdressed than hopelessly underdressed.

Even when a dance is labeled informal, the definition can vary closer to casual or formal depending on the event and its sponsor. To have a better idea, find out as much about the dance as you can. Is it for a school, where the dress can be more casual, or a wedding, where it should be more formal? Note any express dress code and ask others who are also attending the event what they plan to wear.

More Formal

Women should wear flowing skirts and dresses that help accentuate dance moves. Solid colors and prints are both acceptable, but it's best to avoid low-cut tops and extremely short hemlines. Trade in high heels, which will only hurt your feet the more you dance, for comfortable dancing shoes.

More Casual

For more informal events, jeans and a nice shirt are a perfectly acceptable outfit. Wear long-sleeved shirts or take a cardigan for dances during colder weather. You will still want to wear clothes that fit; shirts should not be too tight nor pants too baggy. No matter how informal, try not to wear rubber-soled shoes like Crocs.

What Not to Wear

Some things you should never wear in public, let alone to a dance. Do not show up wearing sweats or pajamas. "Wife-beater" tank tops, baseball caps and see-through shirts are also distasteful. Never wear flip-flops or old sneakers.

Men's Wear

In general, men can wear cotton slacks or jeans with a belt, and top it off with a clean T-shirt, polo shirt or button-down shirt. Comfortable dancing shoes are a must. Keep old clothes with holes in the fabric at home.

References

• University of Texas at Dallas: Elements of Dance Etiquette
• Old Dominion Dance: Etiquette for Formal and Informal Dances