One of the unique and engaging features of this dance is that almost every movement begins by holding your hand out to another dancer - a wonderful symbol of fellowship and unity. Both traditional and modern Western styles are commonly enjoyed, and modern American square dance includes square, round, contra and clogging. Dancers are all ages and nationalities. Some do it just for fun and socialization; others are more serious, competitive dancers.
In the early days of square dancing, clothing rules tended to be quite rigid, and this continues to be true for professional dancers in competitions. Although clothing styles have evolved and relaxed somewhat over the years, there are some traditional essentials in square dance wear: basically for women, a full skirt and frilly petticoat, and for men, cowboy boots, cowboy hats, and leather vests. Dressing up is part of the fun, and square dancing fashion can range from simple and basic to formal and elaborate, although it's important to make …show more content…
The colorful skirts form beautiful visuals as the dancers move across the floor, and the petticoats not only look nice, but they provide stability when twirling. The men's leather vests and cowboy hats provide a consistency to balance the square dance patterns. When dancing in pairs, partners often try to color match, which is usually a requirement in competitive dancing. Members of square dance clubs and professional associations may have specific colors they are required to wear, which identify them as belonging to the group. Square dancing is not only an enjoyable social activity and great exercise, but it is also visually appealing and fun to