Fashion Blogs

The tango dress style is taking off in the fashion world--but not everyone actually wants to dance in them. There are certain "tango-style" dresses that look stunning in a club or at a wedding but would never work on the dance floor. If you actually want to find the right dress for tango dance, here are some tips to keep you dancing the night away.

Choose the Right Skirt

Argentine tango isn't a sedate and stately dance, and you'll be moving your legs quite a bit on the dance floor. Choose a skirt that gives you a wide range of motion. A floaty, fluttery skirt will serve you well here, but if you desperately want something that will hug the curves of your hips and thighs, you can choose a tighter skirt with a generous slit. If you want to rock a mini-skirt, ask a friend to watch you go through your dance moves--your skirt may ride up as you dance, and a short skirt could turn that into a true wardrobe disaster.

Pick a Practical Top

Unless you want to spend hours taping your dress in place and then worry constantly about your dress falling down, avoid strapless tops if you can. It's possible for a strapless dress for tango dance to stay in place, but there are so many beautiful strappy or sleeved tops available that there's no need to put yourself through the stress. If you want the sexy bare-shouldered look, you can get it with a halter top, spaghetti straps, or an asymmetrical top with a single strap, all of which show off your gorgeous shoulders without forcing you to readjust them all night.

You should also try on tops with a soft bra rather than an underwire. Underwire bras can feel uncomfortable when you twist in them and may feel stiff and unpleasant to your partner when you press up against him during the dance. If your top looks stunning with an underwire but lackluster without it, try to find a top that looks great no matter what you have on underneath.

Minimize Beadwork

Speaking of things that can make the dance uncomfortable for your partner, some tango tops have gorgeous, intricate beadwork or other textured styles along the bodice. This looks stunning, but when you press against your partner, he may not appreciate having a hundred tiny Swarovski crystals digging into his skin. Colorful fabrics, lace, and light embroidery are all phenomenal ways to add interest to a tango dress or skirt without making it an ordeal for your dance partner.

Tango argentino is a vigorous dance that will give you plenty of exercise. Because of that, look for a dress that won't make you sweat too much. Heavy fabrics and long sleeves might leave you panting and out of breath long before your dance routine is over. A dress with cutouts or an open back will give you extra room for air to circulate while also giving you a more sensuous look that's perfect for tango dancing.