Jazz dancing has been around for ages but one thing that often seems to go unnoticed is the role that jazz dancewear plays in a performance. These clothes are more than just costumes because they take you from rehearsals to recitals and competition.
This is also one of the reasons why it is essential to have jazz outfits that will help you truly stand out from the crowd while also making you feel comfortable all the time and allowing you to move without restraint. To get more outfits for Jazz, you may check Charismatico dancewear.
In This Post:
The Difference of Jazz Dancewear from Ballet Dancewear
A lot of people confuse jazz dancewear with ballet dancewear. But while there are similarities with the two, there are also stark differences, especially once you come on stage.
Both disciplines are associated with tights and leotards. But when it comes to stage costumes, they become two different entities.
From the color palette alone, you will notice how jazz dancewear differs from ballet. Jazz costumes are typically more colorful, loud, and attention-grabbing. There are a lot of accessories, details, and style cuts involved in a jazz costume. Whereas ballet dancewear is usually muted, comes in light colors, and very minimalistic.
5 Must-Haves for Your Jazz Wardrobe
-
Leotards
Leotards are the number one clothing item that you must have if you’re building a capsule for jazz rehearsals and future performances. They are comfortable and easy to style Pair it with colorful tops or cute accessories and you will surely stand out on stage.
-
Unitard
Unitards appear impractical, but they are the complete opposite. Stock up unitards in different styles and colors and you will never find yourself running out of outfit ideas ever again. They are considered a uniform in jazz performances because they allow you to move with ease and are easy to accessorize.
- Slim Jacket
A slim jacket works best with a leotard in the same color, especially those with satin lapels that give it a classy look. Accessorize with matching gloves and a top hat, and you’ll be ready to wow your audience with your performance.
- Stretch Crepe Shorts
Another must-have for your jazz wardrobe is a pair of black stretch crepe shorts that you can wear over a pair of stockings. You can also add some pizzazz to an otherwise plain-looking pair by wearing a sequin top and adding some accessories like a beret or choker.
- Sheath Dress
For a different style era, a sheath dress with an excellent fit is what you need. You can have short ones in solid colors or with fringes. When paired with a unique headpiece and accessories or worn on top of leggings and mesh tights, sheath dresses are definite eyecatchers.
The Latest Trends in Jazz Dancewear
While the five items above are the most basic when it comes to jazz dancewear, there are also other trendy clothing pieces that have carved their way into the lives (and closets) of dancers.
One example is a crop top, which has been a popular choice for dancers in the last few years. Crop tops are great because they essentially do not come in the way of your movement, which is a must for jazz dancing. Other favorites also include capris and flared pants, particularly those that are made with lycra and dry-fit fabric.
Other than clothing pieces, embellishments are also trendy among jazz performers these days. You will often find costumes with sequins, crystals, and beadings that give the outfits the shimmer and glitter typical of jazz performances.
Choosing the Perfect Jazz Dancing Shoes
Similar to the clothes, jazz and ballet footwear are also often thought to be the same. But contrary to what a lot of people may think, there are technical differences between the two.
Jazz shoes typically come with a slight heel and are often available in neutral and black colors. They are often made in leather or canvas, with the leather type being more expensive but also longer-lasting. They also have a split-sole type that allows you to flex your foot more easily, while the rubber soles provide traction and more cushion to your foot.
Considering that jazz performances have a lot of intense and wide-body movements, the shoes have to be made in such a way that they will allow the dancer to move with more flexibility and without hindrance. This is also why it’s very important that jazz shoes fit perfectly.
If you are looking for a pair of jazz shoes, the best place to go to is a store specializing in dance shoes where a salesperson can assist you in finding the right fit.
Jazz dancewear is not too complicated once you have a full understanding of what goes into a performance outfit as well as the technical elements that come with it. You never know, but you probably have a complete jazz outfit in your wardrobe without realizing it.