Jazz Dance Costumes and Shoes

So, what exactly is Jazz Dance?
If you are sweating it out on a treadmill and dread those visits to the gym in an endeavor to be fit, then fret not, as this is not the last thing in the world. Jazz dance has gained popularity not only because of the style of dancing, but also because it is an extremely enjoyable way to remain fit without housing that feeling of dread, most people are known to experience when it comes to visits to the gym!

Jazz dance has originated from the African American vernacular dance form in the late 1800s. This form of dance showcases the jazz dancers’ individual style and originality. This is a very highly energetic form of dancing where the jazz dancers are required to perfect unique moves, fancy footwork and learn to make big leaps and jumps. It would be highly beneficial for the jazz dancers to master the ballet technique, as this would strengthen the body and improve their balance. The basic moves of jazz dance are the ball change, the twist, pencil spin, jazz walk, cat walk, barrel turn, pivot step etc. There are various styles of jazz dance being evolved with time such as the old-fashioned jazz, modern jazz and the street jazz to name a few.

Jazz Dance Costumes and Shoes:
The movements that are used in the jazz dance require a lot of flexibility and grace. The jazz dancers are therefore required to wear jazz dance costumes that emphasize the lines of the body. This would mean the jazz costumes need to be fitting without all the fuss and frills. It would also depend on the creativity of the designer to come up with new ideas that would highlight the body and make it glamorous for stage shows.

Jazz dance costumes allow a lot of freedom when it comes to colors. You can opt for flashy and loud colors that can be synchronized with the other dancers from the groups. The colors of the costumes can be used to highlight the movements of the dance steps for the particular performance. Being fitted, the colors can help to complement the energy of the jazz dancers. These are often worked upon when the jazz dance incorporates a certain theme. In such cases, the colors are also used to symbolize the meaning of the movements, a dancer is trying to portray.

Halter tops, racer backs, shiny materials sometimes with loads of bling, fitted long pants or even hot pants are very popular in jazz dance costumes. Less clothing is the order of the day for jazz dance, but this is because, the jazz dance, being highly energetic can make the dancer uncomfortable in layers of clothing. Therefore, most jazz dancers prefer shorts, tights and fitted tops. Most of them incorporate stretch blends to allow more flexibility to the jazz dancers. A lot of embellishments such as sequins or crystals are considered to be very in. These are used to add to the glam and the glitter of the performance on stage. Loads of spunk and fun, this is the basic for all jazz dance costumes. You can even add items such as a sequined beret or a hat that helps to accessorize the overall costume.

The jazz dance shoes are as important as the jazz dance costume. These need to be simple and light. They should allow the jazz dancer the right kind of flexibility needed and not hinder the performance. Jazz shoes are available in neutral colors with a slight heel. The lyrical shoes are also gaining popularity of late. These give the illusion that the jazz dancer is performing without really wearing any shoes. These are often worn for performances or even for the basic classes.

Remember, that jazz dance costumes are very unlike the ballet style of dancewear. These are designed to be showy without looking over the top. Any jazz dance performance can never be complete without the right style of costumes. So, its time you pick the right attire and set the stage on fire!