Many of the world’s most exciting and energetic dances originated in Latin America. From the salsa to the cha-cha and the tango, if you’re a dance enthusiast, you will no doubt have come across at least one type of Latin dancing. Around the world, social events are held where Latin dance enthusiasts can get together to enjoy the many different styles that came out of the area. Whether you go as a single person, with friends, or with a dance partner, it’s a lot of fun and helps you put into practice the skills you learn in dance class. But if you’re new to these sorts of events, you may be wondering how they work and whether there are any rules you need to be aware of. So, here’s a guide to the basic etiquette at a social Latin dance.

Hygiene and Grooming are Important

Even if you go to a social dance with a partner, you’ll likely be dancing with many different people during the night. Latin dances often mean close contact with your dance partner, so it’s polite to make sure you have good personal hygiene. Make sure you’re clean, have deodorant on that can cope with the more energetic routines, and avoid heavy perfume or aftershave.

Wear Something Appropriate

People go to social dances to dance, not to sit, so make sure you’re wearing something comfortable enough to spend most of the night on the dance floor. You don’t need to wear a full costume or anything too flashy, but most people do like to be glamorous and wear some sparkle. Look at Charismatico, which has dancewear to suit all sorts of events. See if there’s a dress code for the specific event you’re going to, as there are sometimes stipulations around things like footwear. You may not need professional dance shoes, but usually, footwear like sneakers or thongs are a no-no.

Be Friendly and Open to Invitations

It can be extremely daunting to go to your first social Latin dance. Luckily, most events are relaxed and friendly, with everyone simply enjoying dancing together. Go in with a smile and stand close to the dancefloor. Usually, one of the regulars will spot a newbie and ask them to dance. It’s unlikely you’ll be waiting for long!

Don’t feel like you must wait around to be invited to dance. If you see a fellow lurker, ask them politely if they’d like to join you. Don't be shy; after all, everyone is at the event to dance. If you get a rejection, simply move on. It's nothing personal; they may just be tired or not in the mood at that time. Similarly, if someone asks you to dance and you just aren't feeling it, give them a friendly no thank you or tell them you'd prefer to dance with them later. The etiquette at these events tends to be that you try to dance with everyone, but there are always reasons why you can’t or might not want to.

In the past, the etiquette was that men would ask women to dance, but nowadays in most cultures, it’s socially acceptable for women to ask a partner too.

Consider Your Partner’s Skill Level

Social Latin dancing events attract all sorts of dancers, from people who've taken a few casual lessons to professionals. Don’t feel daunted by more experienced dancers. The lead should start simply and then build up the skill level as the dance goes on. If you’re a beginner or there’s something you’re anxious about doing, communicate this with your partner. If you're the more experienced dancer, don't feel like you need to be a teacher or give lots of feedback; simply adjust to your partner's level and enjoy the dance. Social dances are not lessons, so it’s considered impolite to offer your critique of their dancing.

Be Considerate on the Dancefloor

The dancefloor is a communal space, so make sure you’re considerate of others. Don’t attempt any show-off moves unless you are in a clear space and your partner is happy to do them. Try to pay attention to your surroundings, and if there is a collision, simply apologize and move on.

Talking is generally considered rude when you are mid-dance. If it’s to communicate something important to your partner, that’s fine, but don’t make small talk. If you want to chat with them, most dance socials will have drinks after the dancing is done. Smile and keep eye contact during the dance.

A big no-no is flirting with your partner. It’s considered rude and can make people extremely uncomfortable. Social dances aren’t singles events, they’re places to enjoy various dance styles, so don’t go to them expecting to meet someone.

End the Dance Politely

It's considered good etiquette to dance with your partner until the end of the song. Of course, there are reasons to end it early, such as injury or discomfort, just let your partner know. Once the song is finished, the lead should take their partner's hand and lead them to the edge of the dance floor. You can then thank your partner for the dance and compliment their moves! To get the most out of the experience, avoid staying with the same partner for too many songs, as the idea is to mingle and dance with lots of different people.

Report Issues to the Organisers

In general, social dancing events tend to have a positive culture, with the vast majority of people being respectful of boundaries. However, if you do notice any behavior that makes you uncomfortable, report it to the organizers. Whether it's harassment, abuse, or feeling pressured, don’t be afraid to speak out. Most social dances have a code of conduct, and people who don’t follow it may find themselves banned from future events.

Hitting the dancefloor? Check out Charismatico’s range of gorgeous dancewear, costumes, and accessories, made for everyone from the casual dancer to professionals.