1. Wear American Sportswear Chic
World War II greatly influenced styles of the 1940s and changed fashion forever. The fashions of the forties and fifties still influence swing dancing outfits of today. With American fashion designers of the fortiess cut off from major fashion capitals, such as Paris, they attempted to design innovative American clothing. Losing their collective way without Paris to lead them, American designers began to focus on sportswear. Soon the U.S. became known as the sportswear capital of the world. Also, without natural fabrics to work with due to war time shortages, U.S. clothing manufactures had to find substitute fabrics; hence, rayon manufacturing grew. By the time the fifties came around, American fashion had changed for good. Next came the poodle skirts and bobby socks. These styles of clothing are used for swing dancing. Dress for swing dancing by looking in vintage stores for costumes.
2. Find Gems From Grandma's Attic
Besides raiding your mother's, grandmother's or even great grandmother's closet or attic to dress for swing dancing, you can buy swing dance wear through some dance stores and costume stores. Halloween costume shops often have period dress for swing dancing. Also, shop at auction online stores. You may have to get creative with key words and not rely on the word swing only. Dress for swing dancing by creating your own outfit. Some modern fashions combined make an appropriate time period look.
3. Don Threads From Local Stores
Consider Halloween costume shops, regular costume shops and dance shops as places to find the perfect outfit to dress for swing dancing. Be sure to check out brick and mortar stores locally as well as online stores, such as Halloween Costume Sale. Dance stores, such as Capezio, offer both local shopping and online shopping. Besides vintage stores, you can find something to wear for swing dancing by shopping at charitable organizations like Goodwill.
4. Try on Snazzy Outfits
Swing skirts are popular for women wanting to dress for swing dancing. Anything full with polka dots will work. The idea is for a woman's skirt or dress to flare out when she spins. Poodle skirts are common. A plain closely fitting short sleeved sweater or blouse can be worn with swing skirts. Dresses that reflect the time period of swing's birth are also appropriate. Also, a scarf can be tied around a woman's neck for an accessory, and don't forget to wear swing shoes that go with your outfit. Swing shoes come in various styles, so match them up with your overall costume theme. Men can wear period clothing too, such as older style jeans, a white T-shirt and a vest or something less casual. Men's swing shoes really help set the theme. Other accessories like period sunglasses add to costumes of both men and women.
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