International Ballroom

Look like a STAR! The basic how-to for an amazing showcase look

It’s showcase time! It’s time to show off your dance moves for all of your dance family to see! However, your dance moves aren’t the only thing people are going to be “oohing and ahhing” over. Your costume has been perfected and every hair has been put in place…now what about your makeup? Your makeup is what will take your look to the next level and make you feel like the dancing goddess you already are! Take a look at our step-by-step instructions on creating that star-studded look!

Before going through the following steps, one thing we always recommend our ladies to do is to get a spray tan! This will further define your muscles and contour your body to look your absolute best!

Step 1: take care of your skin! Be sure to go through your skincare routine.

Be sure to wash your face (of course) and also exfoliate!
- Exfoliating helps prepare your skin for makeup.
Finally, be sure to moisturize your face. Make sure to find a moisturizer that matches your skin type. This will help you create an even canvas to work off of.

If you don’t have a skincare routine and are looking for the best products for your specific skin type, go to the following website and take a short quiz to get a customized list of products for you:

https://www.ulta.com/innovation/skincare-advisor/?source=vba

Step 2: Start with the eyes: Eyeshadow gets messy sometimes, eyeliner never seems to go as planned…sometimes you have to fix and adjust to create the perfect look! So starting with the eyes allows for mistakes without having to redo anything with your face makeup.

Pro-tip: using simple scotch tape from the corner of your eye to the end of the brow can help create a super crisp line and more professional look.
Reminder: This is for dramatic makeup, not just a “night on the town”. So remember, More is better!

To start, use some eyeshadow primer on the lid up to the brow. Remember, your makeup is going to need to stay looking amazing for a while. That means going through the process of run throughs, changing into your costume, socializing, sweating, etc. You will need your makeup to last for hours and making sure it looks like you just did it. Eye primer will not only help with that, but will allow for even distribution of shadow and keep it looking vibrant the whole time!

Now it’s time to add shadow. Always start from the outside working in.

Start with a white all above the lid and up to the brow line. This is going to help with the blending process. It Will also help to highlight the brow line and make your eyes look bigger!
Moving on to the crease line, you will want to start with a slate grey/light charcoal with an eyeshadow blending brush. Starting from the middle and moving outward, define your crease. Then, move in with the black shadow with an eye contour brush to further define your crease. A little black does go a long way! Use the blending brush and brush outward and around to create the “smokey eye” effect.
- You may have to go back and use more white and light grey…and that is OK! Blending is your best friend when making a beautiful eye look!
Now its time for the lid! Use a light grey for the whole lid with a simple eyeshadow brush. Then, blend outward from the top of the lid to the crease to create a nice, blended look

Next, eyeliner. Remember, the bolder the better! (we are going to do a cat-eye as an example)

Start with the top lash line. Moving as close to the lash line as possible, go from the end to end and extend beyond the outer lash line toward the brow (about ¼ of the way)
- Remember, with scotch tape, you can still have a crisp line without being perfect!
Next, bolden the line. Start from the outside and work your way in. You want the boldness to taper the closer inward you get. So, the best thing to do is start from the tip most outward and create a thin triangle toward about the middle of your lash line and color in from there.

Finally, fake lashes (optional) and mascara!

If adding fake lashes, the first thing you may need to do is clip the lashes to fit your lid. Nothing is more annoying than a fake lash poking you in the eye for hours!
- Clip from the inner part and be sure you are putting the correct lash on the correct lid.
Next, add the glue. DON’T attempt to put the lash on immediately! Let the glue get tacky first. This will allow a clean application.
Next, apply the last starting from the inside out while closing the eye you are applying to. Stay close to the lash line and take your time! Fan the lash with your hand to ensure it is dried and in place before blinking.
Once the lashes are added, apply your favorite mascara to blend your lashes together!

Step 3: Move on to the rest of the face! Use your preferred makeup remover wipes and wipe off any excess eyeshadow from your face and, if used, remove the scotch tape.

Start with a face primer. This is going to create a smooth canvas so you can apply your makeup evenly.
Next, apply your color corrector/concealer. This is going to be used under your eyes and on any skin blemishes you may have to keep an even coloring.
Next you will apply a foundation on the entire face to create a neutral canvas.
- Optional: applying a translucent setting powder after the foundation will keep the foundation in one place faster.
Next, we want to contour the face. Using a bronzer or contour palette, you want to carve out the “natural shadow” of your face. Take the dark color with a face contour brush and tap into the temples, under the cheek and jaw bone, and on each side of the bridge of the nose. Remember, you want to define these spots and not blend just yet.
Next is time for the highlighting. Using a highlighting powder and using a highlighter brush, tap onto the opposite spots you tapped the contouring powder; T-zone, on top of cheek bone, top of the bridge of the nose, etc.
Now it is time to blend everything together! Take a powder brush and draw little circles all over the face going from center out and upward until all is blended together!
- You can always add more highlighter once the blending is done to add more “glow” to your face!
Next, add your blush. Smile big so you can accent your cheek bones! Tap 3 circles with a blush brush starting from center toward ear then blend from the center outward in small circles.

Step 4: Finally, it is LIP TIME! A bold lip will really take this already fabulous look to the next level! You can use a lip liner if desired to draw out your lip line or just go straight to the lipstick. Find a long-lasting lipstick and be sure to reapply just before walking onto the floor! It is always best to use a bold color such as a bright red or pink depending on your costume color.

Ways to take your look even further: Glitter and rhinestones always make the look even more extravagant!

Add glitter to the lid for an additional pop and shine.
Add some rhinestones to the corner of your eyes as well as your hair using eyelash glue for some extra embellishment.

Remember, this look is about making YOU look amazing on the floor! Customize the look to fit you and your comfort level with makeup. The main things to accentuate are your eyes, cheeks and lips! Take a look at our video tutorial on how all of these tips and tricks will create a phenomenal look on the dance floor!

If you have any additional questions, drop a comment in our blog and we will be sure to respond! Also be sure to go to your local ULTA store or MAC counter to get additional help on your makeup needs!

https://www.ulta.com/

https://www.maccosmetics.com/

How these American born dances impacted the ballroom world!

Dance has always been a part of our culture. And with America being a melting pot of diversity, it’s no wonder that we can create something so unique that the rest of the world has no choice but to take notice. Two American born dances not only had everyone’s eyes on us, they took the ballroom world by storm and defined themselves into the standard basics we all get introduced to. Take a look at how the swing and the foxtrot turned into the social craze around the WORLD!

Swing Dancing: The dance that defined an era

Swing dancing originally started in Harlem in the 20’s during the jazz era. As it grew in popularity, so did the various styles; Lindy Hop, Balboa, jitterbug, and the Charleston. This is the dance that not only became a staple in our nation, it also broke many demographics during that time. People of all races danced together in harmony while listening to that “swinging beat” of the band. As it grew in popularity, so did the various styles. During WWII, our brave soldiers started dancing this popular swing dance while in Europe. That’s when the world of ballroom dance took hold of this AMAZING dance and created a whole new style called the Jive. Jive became a standard dance in the International competitive ballroom circuit shortly after the swing craze hit and has become a staple in Latin style!

Foxtrot: The ultimate social dance

Foxtrot was originated in the summer of 1914 by a special Vaudeville actor, Harry Fox. He used to incorporate his audience into his shows and “trot” around the auditoriums, which gave it the name “Fox’s Trot”This unique social dancing would soon continue to take the world by storm when it captured the eyes of some of the elite people of the dance world; among which were GK Anderson and Josephine Bradley. They took this American-born dance to London where they not only won many competitions, but officially sealed the standard for what foxtrot is today. Over time, just like the swing, as it grew in popularity, so did the various styles and speeds; American Foxtrot, Quickstep, and Slow Fox.

These two American dances reshaped the face of ballroom dancing. Swing and Foxtrot have become the ultimate social dances and a universal language for the world!

Sources:

https://www.americandancesportcenter.com/Foxtrot

https://www.centralhome.com/ballroomcountry/foxtrot.htm#:~:text=The%20Foxtrot%20originated%20in%20the,%22Fox%22%20after%20his%20grandfather.&text=As%20an%20extra%20attraction%2C%20the,vaudeville%20acts%20between%20the%20shows.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swing_(dance)#:~:text=Today%2C%20the%20best%2Dknown%20of,developed%20outside%20of%20these%20communities.

Where in the world did our dances come from?!: A history of our Ballroom Dances

Ballroom dancing is inspired by all cultures of the world! Each major dance we introduce you to has come from far and wide and evolved throughout the ages. Take a look at the history of these dances.

Rumba is of Afro-Cuban folk-dance origin that became internationally popular in the early 20th century. Originating the in the 19^th century, the “Son” was derived from a variety of vocal, instrumental and the unique side-to-side hip action adapted from both African and Spanish influences. In the 1920s, Cuban composers and performers adapted their music to this exotic new dance, and “rumba de salón” became popular in the nightclubs and cabarets of Europe. In the early 1930s, rumba was introduced in the United States, but the music, which became popular in the 1930s and 1940s, featured tame, English lyrics and “watered-down” Cuban music. The American version of this new dance resembled the Cuban ballroom “Son” with added foxtrot dance moves.

Salsa is a dance that was created in the early 1900’s along with the mixture of many different styles and musical techniques that all came together in Cuba. However, though it may have been popularized by the culture of Cuba, many different cultures influenced and molded the dance to become what it is today. Salsa dance entered into peak of its popularity in 1970s when the influx of Dominican and Puerto Rican workers to the continental US. Their new dancing style was popularized with the exploits of the musical stars Johnny Pacheco, Fania All-Stars, Willie Colon and Reuben Blades. Throughout the years of it spreading throughout the world, there have been many different dialects created and continues to be one of the MOST popular social dances in the world! 👍

Cha-Cha is another Cuban born dance that gained popularity around the 1950’s and was created from two other dances – the ‘mambo’ and the ‘danzon’. Enrique Jorrin, a violinist and composer, realized a slower trend in the danzon-mambo rhythm so he decided to compose music that strongly focused on the first downbeat such that the rhythm became less syncopated. This caused the crowd dancers to develop a triple step, creating the sound ‘cha-cha-cha’ with their shoes; thus becoming the Cha-Cha. The dance was introduced in the United States around 1954 and had apparently gained so much popularity among American’s by 1959 that it was reported to be the most popular dance in the country. It remains as one of the most popular Latin dances in the U.S. today.

Swing is an American born dance that took the social dance world by storm! Lindy Hop, also known as the jitterbug, was developed in the 1920’s and is said to be the original form of swing dance. Originating in Harlem, this dance was created based off the upcoming “swing jazz” music that was emerging and rapidly growing in popularity at the time. During WWII, our brave soldiers started dancing this popular swing dance while in Europe. Since the birth of this dance, many different styles have been created; among those are the East Coast and West Coast Swing, the Carolina Shag, and the Jive.

Waltz derives from the German world “Waltzen” which means “to revolve” and is an offspring from the Viennese Waltz that was created in Austria. Being the oldest of the ballroom dances, it gained popularity in the 1800’s and is known as “the dance of the kings and queens”. Beginning about 1830, the waltz was given a tremendous boost by two Austrian composers Lanner and Strauss. During the 19^th century, waltzes were being composed with a much slower tempo thus creating the modern slow waltz we all know today.

Tango is a dance that has influences from African, Native American and European culture. During the 1880’s in Río de la Plata, the natural border between Argentina and Uruguay, the tango was frequently practiced in the brothels and bars of ports, where business owners employed bands to entertain their patrons with music. The tango then spread to the rest of the world. The music derived from the fusion of various forms of music from Europe. The tango was not considered a conservative dance by any means. The tango was considered extremely sensual for the culture of 1900. Now, there are many different variations of this beautiful dance and is constantly referred to in various major films; among those being Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Scent of a Woman, Moulin Rouge, Rent, and so many others.

Foxtrot was originated in the summer of 1914 by a special Vaudeville actor, Harry Fox. He used to incorporate his audience into his shows and “trot” around the auditoriums, which gave it the name “Fox’s Trot”. This unique social dancing would soon continue to take the world by storm when it captured the eyes of some of the elite people of the dance world; among which were GK Anderson and Josephine Bradley. They took this American-born dance to London where they not only won many competitions, but officially sealed the standard for what foxtrot is today. Over time, just like the swing, as it grew in popularity, so did the various styles and speeds; American Foxtrot, Quickstep, and Slow Fox.

Sources:

Rumba:

https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/view/document/obo-9780199913701/obo-9780199913701-0078.xml#:~:text=Originating%20in%20the%20late%2019th,in%20the%20mid%2D19th%20century.

https://www.britannica.com/art/rumba-dance

Salsa:

http://www.dancefacts.net/dance-history/history-of-salsa/

Cha-Cha:

https://www.dance-america.com/history-of-the-cha-cha-dance-81.html

Swing:

https://www.dance-america.com/swing-dance-history-83.html

https://theswingdancecompany.co.uk/history/

Waltz:

http://www.dancefacts.net/dance-history/waltz-history/

http://www.dancelovers.com/waltz_history.html

Tango:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tango#:~:text=Tango%20is%20a%20partner%20dance,countries%2C%20with%20enslaved%20African%20populations.

Foxtrot:

https://www.centralhome.com/ballroomcountry/foxtrot.htm#:~:text=The%20Foxtrot%20originated%20in%20the,%22Fox%22%20after%20his%20grandfather.&text=A%20music%20publisher%20liked%20his,vaudeville%20theaters%20in%20San%20Francisco.\

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foxtrot

Cuban Motion and Hula Dance…how are they similar?

Hula dancing is a very unique style of dancing. According to Hawaiian culture, the Hula dance was considered a gift from the gods, yet it is unsure of the exact timeframe of when this dance originated. During the 1800s, differing styles of hula evolved and began blending not only native Hawaiian styles together, but also those of foreign countries; mainly Japanese elements. Hula is also vastly inspired by the elements they live by; from the ocean waves, to the wind in the trees.

“Just as the tree does not anticipate that the wind is coming and therefore lay down in preparation for its arrival, but responds to the touch of the wind.”

As far as Hula dancing is concerned, it is not much different from the Cuban motion we teach in rhythm dancing. Hula dancing, just like the rhythm dances, start with a preparation step.

The preparation for hula is to have the upper body stretched, knees bent, all of the weight on the left foot, the left hip raised as though you are going to tuck it under your left armpit, the right foot in a tap position next to the left foot in preparation for the first step.
Cuban motion is very much similar. In preparation, we have our left leg straight and all of our weight is gathered onto this standing leg. Our right foot is in a tapping position with a bent knee and our hip is “settled” into the leg.

“They observed how the ocean builds up energy, rolls to shore, seems to take a breath to build up energy and then returns to begin again.”

Another way that hula dancing and Cuban motion are similar is in the way they are executed. In most styles of dancing, the dancer must anticipate the beat and be there on the first count. However, in BOTH Hula and Cuban motion, there is a delayed reaction of weight transfer…meaning the hip is going to be about ½ count behind the actual foot placement. In doing this, you create a visual representation of what the music is evoking and visibly creating the musical rhythm from the arm styling to the hip action.

Though beats may be slightly different and the music varies from the various styles of dances whether it be rumba, Cha-Cha, or Hula…the technique behind these dances create a universal dance language that can be translated throughout many cultures. 🕺

“Dance Shoes? Why do I need those?” Top reasons why dance shoes will magnify your dance growth

Picture this: you have just started dancing and are starting to feel how everything moves and grooves of each dance you are working on. Then, at the end of your lesson, your dance instructor asks, “so when are you going to get some dance shoes?” Why would you need those? You dance perfectly fine in your regular shoes…why should you spend money to get another shoe just for dancing? Well, would you go to the golf course without golf clubs? Or would you play tennis without a racket? Just like investing in the right equipment for any sport, buying dance shoes is ESSENTIAL for your growth as a dancer.

First, let’s talk about what makes a dance shoe different from other shoes in your closet. The main thing that separates a dance shoe from a regular shoe is the sole on the bottom made of suede. This allows you to move, turn, and overall feel the floor a lot better and maintain control throughout the dance. Also, the sole is much more flexible than the average shoe which allows you to point your toe and move your foot more freely. Another difference is the heel itself. it’s good to have a little heel on your shoe depending on your comfort level. The heel brings your weight naturally to the front part of the foot allowing you to align your muscles properly for good posture and positioning, while also bringing your balance more toward your partner.

Next, let’s talk about the different styles of dance shoes there are. If you are just starting off in your dancing and are looking to just dance socially…then a simple practice shoe will be good enough for you. Find yourself a shoe that is comfortable and works with both smooth and rhythm styles. However, if you are looking for shoes that are good for competition, then you will want something a little different:

Latin/Rhythm style: For the ladies, you are going to want a sandal style shoe (open toe and straps). The typical Latin/Rhythm shoe has a higher heel which is up to 3 inches, depending on your comfort. With the sandal style and the higher heel, you are able to maintain your balance and weight to the front of your foot while allowing your toes to flex the way they need to in order to execute quick, sharp moves. For gentlemen, the heel will also be a little higher to provide the same as the lady’s heel; weight more forward to the ball of the foot to provide more stability and control through the quick, actions.
Smooth/Standard style: This shoe typically has a lower heel than the Latin/Rhythm shoe. This allows to execute proper technique with heel leads and keeping yourself grounded and compressed. For the lady, a closed-toe is standard for this style of ballroom dancing.
Lastly, let’s talk about cost and value. Yes, dance shoes can be a bit more expensive than the average shoe you buy. HOWEVER, when you invest in the proper shoe for your dancing, they are not only going to kickstart and improve your dancing tremendously, they will also last you a long time. So, no matter what dance journey you are on, make sure set yourself up for success in achieving your goals and dancing the absolute best you can!

What do I wear?! Best things to wear for your dance lessons

Whether you have been dancing for years or just starting, what you wear to your lesson is going to help make for a good dance lesson. In this post, we are going to talk about the various types of attire based on what you want to achieve in your dancing.

Beginner/Intermediate: When you are first starting out dancing, you don’t need to go out and buy all of the skirts and dance tops right away. Wearing something that is comfortable and easy to move in is all you need. Stay away from short skirts or tops that ride up. Solid colors are ideal but not so much important when you are just starting out. As far as shoes are concerned, something that has a back with a smooth bottom. Sneakers are not an ideal shoe as it will stick to the floor and not allow for you to be able to move as freely throughout your dance moves.👍

Advanced: Once you get into your bronze and above syllabi, you are starting to know where you want to go with your dancing. You have invested your time into building this fabulous new skill and now it is time to invest in more proper attire. As far as tops go something fitted to your liking and solid color is ideal. It helps the instructor see your frame and posture more clearly. As far as bottoms for ladies are concerned, it all depends on what you are getting ready for. Whether you are heading off to competition or getting ready for a showcase, you should probably wear a skirt similar to what you will be wearing for said events like a smooth skirt or a rhythm skirt. For men, investing in a pair of dance pants is ideal, however, athletic pants of any type will do. The main goal is to be able to move without any restriction to your movement. Finally shoes are one of the most important things you want to invest in. Take a look at our blog, “Dance shoes why do I need those? Top reasons why dance shoes will magnify your dance growth”

Your Dance Emergency Kit: What you should have in the ballroom at competition

Picture this…you are in a beautiful competition ballroom, flying from heat to heat and trying to stay looking put together like you just walked out onto the floor for the first time…or in the middle of your favorite waltz, your heel goes through your ballgown…or, in the middle of your rhythm championship, the strap on your dress breaks. What do you do? In this edition of “Dance Tales” we are going to give you a list of everything you need for your emergency dance kit, because being prepared off the floor is just as important as being prepared on it!

There are many things you want to be ready for when walking into the ballroom on the day of competition. Making sure you have everything with you in an emergency dance kit is crucial, as you may not be able to get back to your hotel room between heats. As the saying goes… “always expect the unexpected,” but we’ll be ready! The list is long with questions you should have a solution for! What if your costume malfunctions? What if you get hungry? What if you get a blister? Is your makeup ok? Is your hair still perfect? Are your shoes brushed?

Be sure to find a cute bag to start building your emergency kit, and let’s get started!

Water or Gatorade (HYDRATE!)
Snacks (For the munchies)
Gum or mints (dancing is a close contact sport)
Jacket or Robe (That ballroom will be cold…stay warmed up when you aren’t dancing!)
Slippers (nobody wants to wear their dance shoes in the elevator)
Deodorant (you WILL be sweating!)
Fashion tape (double sided tape) (for those pesky wardrobe malfunctions)
Safety pins (just in case the hem falls out or you lose a button)
Thread and needle kit (be sure it’s the right color!)
Bobby pins (to finesse your hair)
Hairspray (to keep yourself together)
Lipstick (to keep your smile bright!)
Blotting papers or towel (to keep yourself looking fresh and not sweaty)
Band-aids (for those pesky blisters or other incidents)
Shoe brush (to keep your grip on floor)
Cold pack (to relax your sore muscles)
Pen & highlighter (to keep track of your scores in the program)
These are just the basics that should be in every dance emergency kit, but each competitor’s needs are different. Some dancers want water & others a Red Bull…some granola bars (or like our staff, CHOCOLATE)…and gentlemen, though you probably don’t need to pack lipstick or double-sided fashion tape in your kits, don’t forget a comb so you can stay looking polished all day! When making your competition kit, cater it to you and your specific likes & “what ifs”!

We look forward to seeing you all back in the competition ballroom very soon!