Investing in your Ballroom Dance Footwear

Posted on May 23, 2013 by

Our feet are the foundation to not only our bodies but also our dancing.  Our feet give us the balance and movement as we glide across the dance floor.  As dancers we are very hard on our feet and they can become sore at times.  It is important to take extra care of our feet to maximize the ability for proper placement of your steps, maintaining the proper balance, all while wearing proper dancing shoes.

dancesocks2Wearing rubber sole shoes on a dance floor can cause the feet to stick to the dance floor and be challenging when initiating pivots, swivels, spins, or turns and could potentially hurt the knees, too.  If these are your only option we highly recommend purchasing The Dance Sock to place on the toe of your rubber sole to help create the movement that will feel great, and help avoid certain pain.

Some leather soled shoes can be slippery on wood floors causing no friction and sometimes making it difficult to keep your balance.  This is especially difficult when wearing leather soles with high heels, which does not help in completing those smooth fast turns or swivels.  431112_192520814190324_674931161_n[1]Tango Rouge Ballroom Dancewear carries top of the line ballroom dance shoes.  These particular shoes are equipped with features that are important in the investment of your dance journey, as well as the care of your feet.  Check out the overall benefits and importance of ballroom dance shoes:

-Suede sole:  The standard suede soles help maintain the most well balanced movement by creating enough friction, yet allowing unisexshoesmooth transitions and an ease of body movement during spins, and turns.

-Flexibility:  Flexibility allows the toes to be pointed and increases the comfort when dancing on the balls of your feet.   Ballroom dance shoes are light weight and are constructed with split shank, therefore enabling great flexibility.

-Cushion:  The insole cushion allows for comfort and durability using the latest memory padding technology in the extra padded foot bed.  This pad is designed to absorb shock that provides strong resistance against high pressure.  Others create great shape for arch support.  Some insoles are even made with certified nano-fiber that deodorizes the shoes after long hours of dancing.CD2176

-Versatility:  Most dance shoes come in various colors for some styles, and also available in optional fabric choices, all of which are premium fabrics.  The heel height is also an option when choosing what is appropriate for your body movement and comfort level.  Some ladies dance shoes come with an adjustable strap to accommodate narrow or wide feet, while men’s shoes commonly are made with laces allowing for width adjustment as well.

It is important to not wear your dance shoes outdoors to help preserve the life of the shoes. Most of our shoes come with a carrying bag to help keep them together and clean.  We recommended carrying your shoe brush along with the shoes to help lift the nap of the suede for appropriate friction.

Need some more advice on choosing the proper ballroom dance shoe, or even dance shoes for a wedding or event?  You can call us at 469-877-6503 -  and be sure to like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TangoRougeBallroomDancewear.  Looking for a Ballroom Studio to practice your dance skills or routines?  Check out Dancemasters Studio in Dallas and their great Social Club program.

Posted in About Dancing, Ballroom Dance Shoes, Ballroom Dancewear, Ballroom Practice Wear, Latin Dance Shoes, Salsa Shoes, Tango Shoes, Wedding Dance Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Making it Through Your First Ballroom Dancing Class

Posted on May 13, 2013 by

Dance, Dance, Dance“ We keep moving forward, opening new  doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

―   Walt Disney

If one of the paths that has been opened up to you leads you to ballroom dancing, it is because you are meant to walk down that path.  I believe everything happens for a reason.  And once you take a new road, your life is forever influenced by everything that happens afterward.  I remember as a beginner when I was first curious about taking my first ballroom dance class.  I thought surely all the other participants would be so advanced and I would be the biggest clutz in the class.  Everyone who works up the courage to go to their first ballroom dance class feels somewhat like a “fish out of water”.  Just the thought of learning to dance with other people in a class is enough to make sitting on the sidelines pretty enticing for some people. You can even talk yourself into feeling like an idiot or worse, talk yourself into a migraine if you really work hard at it.

In dance as in life, self talk is critically important. Those destructive thoughts that creep into your head like “I feel so dumb”, or “I really suck at this” can been really be damaging and demoralizing. So your self talk has to sound more like the following:
“Everyone starts out as a beginner. I won’t always be a beginner. My dance teacher wants me to do well. I’m amazing”.

At the beginning and ending of every class, you must repeat these phrases and let them replace any negative thoughts.  Just know that all the beginners in the class are thinking the same thoughts and feeling the same insecurities as you. They also have those moments of doubt when they are confused and hesitant. Don’t think you are the only one who has ever had those thoughts and feelings! All good dancers have felt confused and hesitant to try something out of their comfort zone. A ballroom dance class is not a performance; it is an opportunity to learn in a safe environment. Dance is a beautiful journey, and you must allow yourself to make mistakes so that you can grow as a dancer. You know you are good at other things in life, and you will become good at dance if you stay with it.   If you can learn to be comfortable in the uncomfortable moments, you will truly feel amazing when you see your progress!

Dream and BelieveTake the first step today to learn something positive, new, and rewarding.   Sign up for a dance class at a studio near you.   Live in the Dallas area?   Dancemasters Studio has just the right dance class for you!

Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter to stay informed of all our activities.

 

Posted in About Dancing, Ballroom Dance Lessons, Ballroom Dance Therapy, Ballroom Dancing, Competitive Dancing, Dance for Fitness/Health, Dance Lessons, Social Dancing, Wedding Dance Lessons | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Let TRBD Help With All Your Ballroom Dancewear Needs

Posted on May 2, 2013 by

Selecting competition or performance ballroom dancewear and costumes can be such a fun part of your dancing.  Here at Tango Rouge Ballroom Dancewear, we try to go above and beyond for our customers in selecting aBallroom Dancewearnd shipping the correct items with the best fit for you.

We will do everything possible to ensure timely arrival of your dancewear; however, here are a few tips in ensuring your pieces not only arrive on time but are correctly sized for the most flexibility and comfort in dancing.

*Try to plan ahead and order your ballroom dance clothing at least 4 weeks in advance if possible!  We have a nice stock of inventory, but even so, some of the most popular dancewear selections could sell out over the period of just a weekend.  To ensure you are not out of luck with your choices, please place your order 3-4 weeks prior to your event.  This will prevent the stress of being out of time and hoping that your order will make it in time.  We don’t like to disappoint our customers, so plan ahead.

Ballroom Dancing Shoes*Ballroom dance Shoes are an important consideration for social and competitive dancing.  We recommend that you order shoes at least 2 – 3 weeks in advance of your event.  Standard shipping can take up 5 – 7  business days to arrive to your home in the USA, and this gives you a little extra time to exchange the shoes if for some reason they are not the proper fit.  Our experts recommend ordering your street size for dance shoes.  Dance shoes  will conform to the shape of your feet after wearing for a few hours, so some break-in time is recommended ahead of your event for maximum comfort.

Custom Ballroom Costumes*Custom ballroom costumes for men and women are available, and are constructed to fit your measurements so that you get a beautiful fit.  To ensure timely delivery, custom dancewear should be ordered 6 weeks in advance.  This allows 4 weeks of manufacturing and delivery time and then a couple of weeks before your event for you to practice in your beautiful new dance apparel, especially for long or full skirts.

Even if you find you have waited until a few days prior to your event to place your order, please be assured we will still do everything possible to help you.  Contact us to learn how we can be of service to you!

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up with all our news and events!

Posted in About Dancing, Ballroom Dance Shoes, Ballroom Dancewear, Ballroom Dancing, Dance Apparel, Ladies Ballroom Dance Costumes, Latin Dancewear, Men's Ballroom/Latin Dancewear, Social Dancing | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Making the Most of your Ballroom Dance Journey

Posted on April 26, 2013 by

Learning to dance and becoming an accomplished dancer is a process, and can be a wonderful and joyful journey.  We have gathered some tips that will assist you in  your dance journey, by saving time, and getting the most for your money.

Learn Ballroom Dancing

-Learn as many dances as you can, even as a beginner. Never think you can only handle one dance at a time. Many of the dances share the same patterns, and techniques; the biggest difference between styles is the timing. For example, the same Cross Over Breaks that you can do in Rumba can also be done in Salsa, Cha-Cha, or even Samba. There are many patterns that can be used universally in all dances, so when you learn more than one dance at a time you will be using these same patterns in many dances.   Your dance training will actually be accelerated by learning many dance styles.

-Wearing proper footwear is important for many reasons. Ballroom dance shoes are especially contructed for easy movement and gliding across the dance floor. Also they have flexible soles for pointing the toes.  Everyday street shoes will not allow the flexibility that you need for beautiful leg lines, and pretty feet that you see on great dancers.  For days when you have sore or tired feet and can’t dance in heels,  The Dancesocks  are reusable stretch bands that you can put over any shoe toe for easy gliding and movement.

-Take advantage of all the activities many dance studios have to offer. Most offer group class settings with varied aged ranges where you get a chance to dance with others to improve your lead and follow all while learning new dance patterns. Most are usually affordable, and many offer money saving lesson packages.  Dancemasters Studio Dallas offers a Social Dance every Friday night. This gives dancers of all levels a chance to practice all Smooth, Latin, and Swing dances plus have a great time meeting others and enjoying a fun night of dancing once a week.

-Utilize your dancing time as your active time.  A healthy lifestyle includes  physical activity so why not do something fun! While dancing, you are not only improving your balance and posture but, ballroom dance is known to be the only physical activity to offer protection against dementia, according to a study at Stanford. It’s great for your body and mind all at the same time.

-Never compare your dancing skills to another. Like many activities, we all progress at various levels and the only one you need to be comparing yourself to is your own self.  Ask yourself every day, did I dance better today than yesterday?  Dancing at every level is beautiful if you dance with joy.  Those beautiful dancers you admire have practiced and worked many hours to dance at that level, and if you are determined to be a better dancer, then you will need to learn to be happy with where you are now yet determined to keep improving with frequent practice and social dancing!

These are some of the ways to make your dancing journey more successful and enjoyable.  Association with a local dance studio and the support you receive from the ballroom community will be invaluable.

Be sure to check out our full calendar of events including group classes, private lessons, dance parties, workshops, showcases, and more!  Like us Facebook, and Follow us on Twitter to stay plugged in to all our activities!

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Ballroom Dancing – a habit worth supporting!

Posted on April 8, 2013 by

 

Ballroom Dancing

A habit worth supporting

 

   “Ballroom Dancing just gets more exciting the more you know about it, which is why you have to do well at school so you can spend the rest of your life supporting your habit!”
        Kay Teague

 

Everyone should have the opportunity to follow their passions and dreams and to find that one thing that really jazzes them; I found that one thing several years ago, and  my journey in ballroom dancing has allowed me the joy of training, competing and performing with a 4 time national ballroom dance champion, who has worked so diligently from year to year building my confidence and skills and transforming me into a dancer.   I bring you the quote above because I feel that many of us in the ballroom community live, breathe, and work so that we can pursue the joy of dancing.   Once you begin dance, you find you can’t live without it – it’s almost addicting, but a habit so worth supporting.  I have found there is nothing more therapeutic than getting lost in the music and movement of dance.  Why not give it a try?

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and to visit us at www.tangorougeballroomdancewear.com for many choices in ballroom dancewear and costumes.

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Spring Practice Dancewear

Spring Practice Dancewear

Remember Tango Rouge Ballroom Dancewear for all your dancing needs! We love this Aqua Flutter Collar dancewear top paired with this Aqua Skirt. Call 468-877-6503 to order yours, today!

Check out more designs at
http://www.tangorougeballroomdancewear.com!

Image | Posted on March 26, 2013 by | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Dancing with DFW Dancemasters Studio Style

marionancyAs we all anticipate tonight’s premier of the new season of Dancing with the Stars, we are reminded of why we all love Ballroom dancing, so much!! Whether it’s the workout, the social interaction, or just the beauty and art of dancing, there are many reasons why Ballroom dancing has become the new past-time for all ages!

Check out this mornings live coverage from Good Morning Texas at the link below! Dancing with DFW @ Dancemasters Studio You can learn to dance, too, by visiting our website at  www.dancemastersdallas.com; check out our full schedule of events, and see video tutorials and info all about ballroom dancing. Dancemasters Studio offers training in Ballroom, Latin, & Swing dances.  There are many avenues to learning how to dance including group classes, private lessons, or social dances!  Now all you need is the willingness to make it happen!

As you gain inspiration from tonight’s premier episode of Season 16 “Dancing with the Stars”, remember ANYONE can learn to dance, and that ANYONE can be you!

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Tips To Boost Your Dancing Confidence

Posted on February 28, 2013 by

self-confidenceNothing is more important in dance than self-confidence.   When confidence fades, your ability to dance your best is compromised.  There is no substitute for believing in yourself, and there are a few things that  I feel are pretty important in making sure you maintain a healthy level of self-confidence.

The number one key to dancing confidently is preparation.   Good instruction and practice time are essential.  Great dancers learn from great dancers, and they spend hours and hours on their own practicing and perfecting style and technique. You will dance more confidently knowing you worked hard to get where you are.  Feel good about how far you have come, and keep working hard to move forward to your next dancing goal.

Developing self-confidence in dance also comes from successful experiences.  There is nothing like having a few successes and achievements behind you to substantiate your belief in yourself and your abilities.

If your dance costume doesn’t flatter you or you don’t feel good wearing it,  this is a sure confidence wrecker.  The axiom “clothes make the man” is never truer than in ballroom dancing, and applies to both men and women.   When you don’t feel right in your costume, it is distracting to your ability to immerse yourself in your dancing, and therefore you will not perform as well as you could.  Always check the fit, length, and the flatter factor for each costume you dance in.

The absolute worst way to diminish your confidence is by comparing yourself to other dancers.  You are you, and they are them.  All dancers dance at their own level and exude their own personalities.  A nice figure or physique is pleasing to the eye, but  self-confidence supercedes appearance,  and makes a dancer much more enjoyable to watch.

I leave you with these words of inspiration:

Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy.
-Norman Vincent Peale

Need advice with a costume?  We’re here to help – give us a call!  Remember to follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Posted in About Dancing, Ballroom Dancewear, Ballroom Dancing, Ballroom Practice Wear, Competitive Dancing, Dance Apparel, Ladies Ballroom Dance Costumes, Latin Dancewear, Social Dancing | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Make no mistake – Dance is a Journey

Posted on February 9, 2013 by

This is a post I have been thinking about writing for some time.  I am always in awe of beautiful ballroom dancing, and appreciate the artistry and athleticism of great dancers.  Their  hard work, dedication, and perseverance enables them to achieve higher levels of dance.

Professional ballroom dancersMost highly accomplished professional and amateur dancers begin as very young children, and give years to private instruction and individual practice time to continue in their journey to excellence.

For dancers who entered the world of ballroom dancing as adults, expectations of achievement can be a bit unrealistic.  The artistry and athleticism of accomplished dancers appears to be effortless and often looks “easy”.  Beginner ballroom dancers can be dismayed to learn that after buying the proper ballroom dance shoes and taking a couple of ballroom dance classes they haven’t mastered the steps.  These are often the same adults who have been successful in business and can’t understand why dance seems so hard when it looks so easy.

Beginner dancersDance brings such joy to the participant as well as the observer, and in the age of semi-conductors and micro-technology, the beauty and artistry of dance is a balm to the human spirit.  It is a beautiful art form, and is as therapeutic for the mind as for the body.  Many who begin ballroom dancing as adults quickly learn that when they are dancing, they can forget about everything else going on in their lives.  It can be a brief escape from the pressures of motherhood, fatherhood, empty-nesters, and any number of other segments of the population.

The revelatation that dance is a journey can be a daunting discovery for most beginners.  Rome wasn’t built in a day, and learning to dance doesn’t happen overnight.   During the process, be encouraged by the following truths:

  • Learning to dance is a journey, a process of time, frequent participation, practice, and hard work.
  • Even dancers with inherent ability and talent work hard to improve.  Don’t expect to look like Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers after one or two ballroom dance lessons.
  • Don’t compare yourself to any other dancer.  Only look at where you are now and how far you have come, and then celebrate your success.
  • There are many plateaus in dance.  The point at which you seem to be stuck, is just the point before you reach the next peak.
  • Make a promise to yourself that you will enjoy and savor every moment.  Remember dancing is supposed to be fun.  Allow yourself to make mistakes, and enjoy the great moments as well as those you would sooner forget.
  • Be comfortable with yourself as you are.  Change the things you can about yourself, and be happy with those things you cannot change.

If the joy you feel when you are dancing brings you to life, then you are a dancer.  Let your passions guide you, and if you are called to dance, then enjoy the journey.

Posted in About Dancing, Ballroom Dance Lessons, Ballroom Dance Shoes, Ballroom Dance Therapy, Ballroom Dancing, Competitive Dancing, Dance as an Art Form, Dance Lessons, Live to Dance, Social Dancing | 1 Comment

While I Dance

Posted on January 21, 2013 by

I came across this quote and wanted to share it with my readers, as it explains everything:

While I dance I can not judge, I can not hate, I can not separate myself from life. I can only be joyful and whole. This is why I dance. – Hans Bos

I really can’t say it any better, any clearer, or with any more passion that Mr. Bos.  I have always believed that dance is the best therapy there is, but I have concluded that dance is also a metaphor for life.  In dance as in life, we are all on a journey, and our journey includes twists and turns, and bumps in the road, and indescribable joy.   My journey and I have been forever changed and enriched through dance, and now I can’t image my life without it.

If dance has been a part of your journey or you are so inclined to share what this quote means to you, I would love to hear from you.

Posted in About Dancing, Ballroom Dance Therapy, Ballroom Dancing, Dance as an Art Form, Dance for Fitness/Health, Live to Dance | Tagged , , | Leave a comment