PART 2... DRESSING FOR JAZZ CLASS

Jazz uniforms are generally a little different to their ballet counterparts. Perhaps because jazz has a different dynamic; perhaps because jazz dance doesn’t carry the weight of tradition that determines a lot of what we do in ballet class; but jazz uniforms are often more variable than ballet wear. There is, however, a particular look to jazz attire. Gone are the ballet skirts – replaced by dance pants of varying lengths. Leotards are still common, but so are crop tops or singlets. Many jazz dancers do wear tights, but these may be a different colour to those worn for ballet.

Importantly, jazz shoes are not the same as those worn for ballet, and, although jazz dancers on a budget may be tempted to wear ordinary sports shoes to class, there are strong arguments against doing so. Specialty jazz shoes have evolved to accommodate the unique movements performed by jazz dancers, and the surfaces upon which they dance. Neither, unsurprisingly, are the same as in other sports (such as aerobics or fitness classes, for example).

Traditional leather jazz shoes may be lace-up or slip-on, and split sole or full sole. They, much like a ballet shoe, are worn quite snug and contour to the foot (particularly the split-sole variant). Unlike a ballet shoe, however, they have a low heel. These generally come in black or tan colours.

At first glance, jazz sneakers do look a lot like a sports shoes, but there are some important differences. Firstly, jazz sneakers are split sole, which accommodates the range of motion that dancers’ feet typically perform. Secondly, a dance sneaker’s sole is typically made of different materials, and possesses different properties, to a sports shoe. They are, for example, generally lighter, and grip the floor and spin differently (remember that dancers perform different movements, and dance on different surfaces, to other athletes). Good dance sneakers have loads of other features as well, which are, again, tailored to the unique demands placed upon dancers’ feet. Examples include lacing systems which are designed to provide greater arch support, and specially shaped toe boxes to assist with toe stands.

Finally, it need not cost a fortune to wear the correct attire, but be careful when shopping around. A lot of “discount” dancewear really is very cheaply made indeed, and there can be a world of difference between high quality fabrics, leathers and materials and their cheaper counterparts. Also bear in mind that Australian trends and requirements are quite different from those in other countries. The wrong dancewear can be uncomfortable, fit poorly, pill, fade or stretch after a few washes, fall apart after a few classes and just look plain wrong. You can avoid the pitfalls and shop in confidence at www.danceweardirect.com.au - where you’ll enjoy great quality, huge savings and an unbeatable shopping experience.

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Written by Jacqueline Hoole. Jacqueline is a qualified ballet teacher with almost 30 years teaching experience. She is also product development manager with Maestro Arts Pty. Ltd., owner of Dancewear Direct and of the SHOWSTOPPER® and Betty Bunhead & Friends® dancewear labels.

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