Category: Amy Tips

Shining Bright at the Emerald Ball: A Prestigious Stage for Ballroom Excellence

Posted on by Amy Yang

The Emerald Ball is celebrated as one of the most prestigious ballroom dance competitions in the world, bringing together ProAm, amateur, and professional dancers for an unforgettable showcase of talent and passion. Held annually in Los Angeles, California, this iconic event is a pinnacle of excellence, offering a platform for dancers to perform on one of the most respected stages in the dance world. From dazzling routines to breathtaking costumes, the Emerald Ball sets the standard for elegance, competition, and artistry.

Why the Emerald Ball Stands Out

The Emerald Ball is renowned not only for its world-class competition but also for its inclusivity, welcoming dancers from all levels and backgrounds. ProAm dancers shine alongside seasoned professionals and emerging amateurs, creating a vibrant and diverse atmosphere. Competitors vie for titles across a variety of categories, showcasing their skills in both Latin and ballroom styles.

The event’s reputation for exceptional organization, distinguished adjudicators, and glamorous venues makes it a must-attend for dancers worldwide. For spectators, it’s a chance to witness the highest level of artistry and athleticism, as well as the electrifying energy that defines the Emerald Ball.

The Role of Costumes in Emerald Ball Performances

Costumes are an integral part of every performance at the Emerald Ball. Latin dance dresses captivate with their bold designs, vibrant colors, and intricate embellishments that highlight the energy and charisma of the dancers. Ballroom gowns, on the other hand, exude grace and sophistication, with flowing skirts, luxurious fabrics, and sparkling details that enhance the elegance of each movement.

A custom-made Latin or ballroom dance dress is essential for standing out on the Emerald Ball stage. These bespoke creations are tailored to each dancer’s measurements and preferences, ensuring a perfect fit that allows for freedom of movement and confidence. From selecting the ideal fabric and color to incorporating intricate stoning and embellishments, a custom dress transforms a performance into a masterpiece.

Plan Ahead: Get Your Custom Dress Today

Preparing for the Emerald Ball requires attention to every detail, including your attire. Custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses require careful craftsmanship and time for production. The process, including delivery, typically takes up to 2 months, so it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure your dress is ready in time for the competition.

Start the process today to ensure you have a dress that reflects your style and enhances your performance. Explore our collection of custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses here, and let us help you create the perfect look for the Emerald Ball.

An Experience to Remember

The Emerald Ball is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of dance, connect with a passionate community, and create memories that will last a lifetime. For ProAm, amateur, and professional dancers alike, the Emerald Ball is a chance to shine on one of the world’s most prestigious stages.

Make your mark at the Emerald Ball with a custom-made Steps & Threads dress, designed to ensure you look and feel your best. With the right attire and preparation, you’ll be ready to dazzle under the spotlight and take your performance to the next level.

Crown Cup Events: A Celebration of Dance Excellence

Posted on by Amy Yang

 

The Crown Cup series is a pinnacle of elegance and competition in the ProAm dance world, offering an unforgettable experience for dancers and spectators alike. These prestigious events, held in glamorous venues around the globe, provide a stage for ProAm dancers to shine and showcase their skills in both Latin and ballroom styles. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or new to the world of dance, Crown Cup International Dance Competitions are a celebration of artistry, precision, and passion.

What Makes Crown Cup Events Special?

Crown Cup International Dance Competitions are renowned for their luxurious settings, exceptional organization, and emphasis on the ProAm dance community. Each event exudes a sense of sophistication, with grand ballrooms, world-class adjudicators, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages participants to give their all on the dance floor.

Competitors can participate in a wide range of categories, from the fiery passion of Latin dances like the cha-cha and samba to the timeless elegance of ballroom styles such as the waltz and foxtrot. The Crown Cup International Dance Competitions also foster a sense of camaraderie, bringing together dancers, coaches, and enthusiasts from all over the world to celebrate their shared love of dance.

Crown Cup Event Locations

Crown Cup International Dance Competitions are held in some of the most stunning cities around the globe, offering dancers an opportunity to compete in breathtaking settings. The current list of Crown Cup locations includes:

  • Crown Cup Dubai
  • Crown Cup Madrid
  • Crown Cup Bali
  • Imperial ProAm Open London
  • Baltic Open Vilnius

Each location brings its unique charm, combining world-class competition with the cultural richness of the host city.

The Role of Costumes in Crown Cup Performances

One of the highlights of Crown Cup International Dance Competitions is the dazzling array of costumes that grace the dance floor. For ProAm dancers, the right attire is more than just a fashion statement—it’s an integral part of their performance. Latin dance dresses feature bold, eye-catching designs, with vibrant colors, intricate stoning, and dynamic fringe that accentuate every movement. Ballroom gowns, on the other hand, embody grace and sophistication, with flowing skirts, luxurious fabrics, and exquisite embellishments that enhance the beauty of the dance.

A custom-made Latin or ballroom dance dress is the ultimate way to ensure you look and feel your best at Crown Cup International Dance Competitions. Tailored to your measurements and style preferences, these dresses are designed to move seamlessly with your body, highlighting your strengths and elevating your performance.

Why Choose a Custom-Made Dance Dress?

At Crown Cup International Dance Competitions, every detail matters, and your attire is no exception. A custom-made dress allows you to express your unique personality and style while ensuring a perfect fit. From selecting the ideal fabric and color to adding intricate embellishments, each dress is a masterpiece crafted to enhance your performance and leave a lasting impression.

Steps & Threads collection of custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses is designed with ProAm dancers in mind, combining elegance, functionality, and individuality. Whether you’re preparing for a dramatic paso doble or a graceful Viennese waltz, we’re here to help you shine. Explore our collection here and discover the perfect dress for your next competition.

An Unforgettable Experience

Crown Cup International Dance Competitions are more than just competitions; they are an opportunity to celebrate the joy of dance, connect with a vibrant community, and create memories that will last a lifetime. For ProAm dancers, these events represent the pinnacle of their dedication and passion, offering a chance to step into the spotlight and dazzle the audience.

Be ready to shine at Crown Cup International Dance Competitions with a custom-made dress that reflects your unique style and enhances your performance. With the perfect attire and your love for dance, you’ll be set to take the stage with confidence and grace.

Grace and Glamour: The Majestic Ball Experience

Posted on by Amy Yang

The Majestic Ball is a dazzling celebration of dance, elegance, and artistry that has become a cornerstone event for the ProAm dance community. Known for its sophistication and high-caliber performances, the event provides a platform for dancers to showcase their skills in a setting that exudes luxury and style. From the breathtaking routines to the impeccable attire, the Majestic Ball is an experience like no other.

The Majestic Ball: Where Dance Meets Elegance

Every year, the Majestic Ball draws ProAm dancers from across the country, offering a perfect blend of competition and camaraderie. Participants compete in a variety of categories, ranging from dynamic Latin dances to graceful ballroom routines. The event’s emphasis on precision, artistry, and presentation makes it a highlight of the competitive dance calendar.

Held in a grand venue befitting its name, the Majestic Ball is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the dancing. Spectators are treated to a visual feast of swirling gowns, intricate choreography, and the undeniable passion of the performers. The event creates an environment that celebrates the art of dance while fostering connections within the dance community.

The Importance of Costumes for ProAm Dancers

For ProAm dancers, their choice of attire is just as important as their choreography. Costumes are not merely an accessory; they are a vital part of the performance, enhancing the dancer’s movements and creating a visual impact. At the Majestic Ball, the spotlight shines brightly on every detail, making the right dress an essential component of success.

Latin dance dresses at the Majestic Ball often feature bold colors, intricate stoning, and designs that exude energy and flair. In contrast, ballroom gowns are characterized by their flowing skirts, delicate embellishments, and timeless elegance. A well-crafted custom-made dress ensures that ProAm dancers not only look their best but also feel confident and comfortable on the dance floor.

Why Choose a Custom-Made Dance Dress?

The Majestic Ball is the perfect stage to showcase your individuality and style. A custom-made Latin or ballroom dance dress allows ProAm dancers to express their personality while ensuring a flawless fit. From selecting the perfect fabric and color to incorporating unique embellishments, every detail is tailored to enhance your performance.

Our collection of custom-made dance dresses is designed with ProAm dancers in mind, combining functionality with elegance. Whether you’re performing a passionate samba or a dreamy waltz, our dresses are crafted to move with you, ensuring you shine with every step. Explore our collection here to find the perfect dress for your next competition.

An Event to Remember

The Majestic Ball is more than just a dance competition; it’s an experience that celebrates the beauty of movement, the thrill of performance, and the joy of community. For ProAm dancers, it’s an opportunity to push boundaries, connect with others, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Prepare to dazzle at the Majestic Ball with a custom-made dress that reflects your unique style and enhances your performance. With the right attire and an unwavering passion for dance, you’ll be ready to make your mark on this grand stage.

Dancing in Grandeur: The Blackpool Dance Festival

Posted on by Amy Yang

 

The Blackpool Dance Festival, held annually in the historic Empress Ballroom at the Winter Gardens, is the pinnacle of competitive dance. As the longest-running and most prestigious ballroom dance competition in the world, it draws elite dancers, passionate amateurs, and enthusiastic spectators from every corner of the globe. Known for its unparalleled display of artistry and competition, the festival is a celebration of elegance, rhythm, and dedication to the craft of dance.

A Legacy of Excellence

First held in 1920, the Blackpool Dance Festival has grown into an iconic event synonymous with tradition and innovation. Each year, dancers compete across multiple categories, showcasing their talent in Latin and ballroom disciplines. The festival’s reputation for excellence makes it a coveted stage for dancers aspiring to leave their mark on the global dance scene.

The grandeur of the Empress Ballroom, with its ornate architecture and rich history, provides the perfect backdrop for this dazzling display of skill and passion. For spectators, the festival offers a rare opportunity to witness world-class performances up close, experiencing the energy and emotion that define competitive dance.

Spotlight on Costumes

One of the most captivating aspects of the Blackpool Dance Festival is the stunning array of costumes. From fiery Latin ensembles to graceful ballroom gowns, each outfit is a work of art that enhances the dancer’s performance. The interplay of movement, fabric, and embellishment creates a visual feast that leaves a lasting impression.

Latin dance costumes often feature vibrant colors, intricate stoning, and daring designs that amplify the energy and charisma of the performance. In contrast, ballroom dresses exude sophistication, with flowing skirts, delicate details, and luxurious fabrics that complement the elegance of the dance.

To truly stand out on the dance floor, many competitors choose custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses. These bespoke creations ensure a perfect fit and allow dancers to express their individuality while meeting the highest standards of competition attire. Whether it’s the shimmer of sequins or the movement of fringe, every element is carefully considered to enhance the performance.

Why Blackpool Inspires Dancers Worldwide

The Blackpool Dance Festival is more than a competition; it’s an inspiration. The event unites the global dance community, fostering camaraderie and admiration among dancers and audiences alike. For competitors, it’s a chance to perform on the world’s most prestigious stage, while for spectators, it’s an unforgettable experience of artistry and athleticism.

If you’ve ever dreamed of competing at Blackpool or simply want to channel the elegance and energy of its dance floor, the right attire is essential. Explore Steps & Threads’ collection of custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses here. Designed to combine beauty, functionality, and individuality, our dresses ensure you’re ready to shine at any event.

Prepare to Take the Stage

As the Blackpool Dance Festival continues its legacy of excellence, it remains a beacon for dancers around the world. Whether you’re stepping onto the Empress Ballroom floor or pursuing your passion closer to home, let the festival’s spirit inspire you to dance your heart out. With a custom-made dress tailored to your style and needs, you’ll be ready to make every performance unforgettable.

The United Kingdom Open Dance Festival: A Showcase of Excellence

Posted on by Amy Yang

The United Kingdom Open Dance Festival stands as one of the most prestigious events in the world of competitive dance, attracting top talent from across the globe. Known for its unparalleled display of artistry, technique, and passion, the festival celebrates the beauty and athleticism of dance in all its forms. The 2024 edition of the festival brought unforgettable performances, especially from the amateur champions and runners-up, who left the audience in awe with their skill and grace.

The Highlights of the 2024 United Kingdom Open Dance Festival

The 2024 UK Open Dance Festival was a grand celebration of talent and dedication, featuring breathtaking performances from amateur and professional dancers alike. Among the standout moments were the showcases by the amateur champions and runners-up, whose performances embodied the festival’s spirit of excellence and competition.

Amateur Champions: Setting the Gold Standard

The amateur champions captivated the audience with their mastery of technique and artistic expression. Their performances in Latin and ballroom categories showcased flawless choreography, impeccable timing, and an undeniable connection with their partners. From the dynamic cha-cha to the ethereal waltz, every routine highlighted their versatility and dedication to the craft.

Their choice of costumes further enhanced their performances. Custom-made Latin dresses sparkled under the lights, with intricate embellishments and bold designs accentuating every spin and sway. The ballroom gowns flowed gracefully, crafted with luxurious fabrics and detailed embellishments that complemented their elegant movements.

Runners-Up: A Display of Passion and Potential

The runners-up brought their own magic to the dance floor, proving that they are stars in the making. Their routines were marked by creativity, passion, and technical precision, earning them well-deserved admiration from judges and spectators alike. The Latin routines radiated energy and flair, while the ballroom performances exuded timeless elegance and sophistication.

Their performances served as a reminder of the incredible depth of talent present at the UK Open Dance Festival. With every step, turn, and lift, these dancers demonstrated why the festival is a premier platform for rising stars in the dance world.

The Role of Costumes in Memorable Performances

Costumes play a crucial role in competitive dance, elevating performances by adding drama, elegance, and personality. At the 2024 festival, the amateur champions and runners-up wore custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses that perfectly complemented their routines. From bold, glittering Latin outfits that emphasized every sharp movement to flowing ballroom gowns that enhanced their graceful strides, the costumes were works of art in their own right.

If you’re inspired by the stunning attire showcased at the festival, explore our collection of custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses here. Designed to combine style, comfort, and performance, our dresses ensure you shine on any dance floor.

Looking Ahead

The 2024 United Kingdom Open Dance Festival was a testament to the power of dedication, artistry, and passion in dance. As we look forward to the next edition, the performances of the amateur champions and runners-up serve as inspiration for dancers worldwide. Their achievements remind us of the beauty of competition and the joy of self-expression through movement.

Whether you’re an aspiring competitor or a dance enthusiast, the UK Open Dance Festival offers endless inspiration and a chance to witness dance at its finest. Make sure you’re ready for your moment in the spotlight with a custom-made dance dress that reflects your unique style and talent. Let’s dance into the future, one graceful step at a time.

How to order a customized Latin or ballroom dance costume

Posted on by Amy Yang

Option 1.

Have a pick on our existing listing.

Pick what you like, we will make it the same as what you see in the pictures based on your measurements.

Option 2.

Alter an existing dance dress design.

It’s nearly there but not hitting the spot for you. You may modify the design or change color as you wish.

Option 3.

You know the different styles that might look good on you but not sure how combining these elements would look. Please send us a briefing, e.g. I would like the front of the dress to look like this, and the skirt look like another way with reference photos. We will do a sketch and work on the design with you together.

Option 4.

Knowing exactly what you want, but just need a tailor that is specialised in Latin dance dresses and ballroom dance outfits to bring your concepts to life. Please send us your sketch or pictures, we will make it happen for you.

Usually dancers choose the main color of their dresses first, depending on the design of the dresses, we will check the colors of all the necessary materials to make sure it has matching colors before productions.

Dancers can make any dress style you like in any color. The limitation is often that not all different types of fabric have the exact color tone. If there is no suitable matching color in different materials, we will provide recommendations for the best alternatives.

Common Fabric that are used in Latin and ballroom dance dresses

Posted on by Amy Yang

Here are a few different types of common fabric that are used for the Latin and ballroom dance costumes.

Lycra

Lycra is a highly elastic materials with anti-wrinkle effects. When you travel across the countries to join international dance competitions, you don’t have to worry your dresses get crushed in the suitcase.

An example of a dress made of Lycra.
[L0146]

Crepe

Crepe is similar to Lycra in texture, but heavier so it naturally draped a little more, and Lycra is a little lighter.

Often there are no big differences to make dresses with Lycra or Crepe, and visually you won’t be able to tell the difference unless you are an expert in fabric. It often comes down to which color is available in these materials that can fit your dress design.

An example of a dress made of Crepe.
[L0038]

Stretch Velvet

Stretch Velvet is another fabric that is popular with our clientele. Velvet brings elegance and high-end impression on a dress.

An example of a dress made of Stretch Velvet.
[B0005A]

Chiffon

Chiffon is another common fabric used in ballroom dance dress. The ballroom dance or standard dance skirts are often made of a few godets inserted with chiffon fabric. Chiffon is soft, light and flowy, which spins well and enhances movements. It drapes nicely against the body when dancing.

An example of the dress made with Lycra and chiffon
[L0042A]

Organza

Organza is a fabric that is light and sheer, a bit more airy comparing to Chiffon and provides a more structured and firmed shape.

An example of the dress made with Lycra with organza
[L0008]

Ostrich Feathers

Ostrich feathers are commonly used in ballroom dance costumes. They are beautiful, puffy, and elegant. They can be dyed in different colors to match your dance dresses. Ostrich feathers give ballroom and standard dance dresses an instant lift and enhance movements on the dance floor.

An example of the dress made with Lycra with Ostrich feathers
[B0118]

What crystals to use on your custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses?

Posted on by Amy Yang

For custom-made Latin and ballroom dance dresses, crystals can add sparkle, elegance, and dynamic visual appeal. Here are some popular choices and tips for choosing the best crystals for these types of dresses:

Swarovski Crystals

Swarovski is well known for its superior manufacturing method and amount of facets. The technique of cutting the facets produces a brilliant shine that sets it apart from other crystals. They are durable and resistant to scratching and offer a variety of sparkle, color, and range.

Common Swarovski crystals for dance dresses include:

  • Flat-back rhinestones: these are perfect for adhering to fabric.
  • Hotfix crystals: they come with an adhesive backing that bonds to fabric when heat is applied, making them secure for active dancing.
  • Colors: choose colors that complement your dress and skin tone. AB (Aurora Borealis) crystals have a rainbow effect that pairs well with any fabric color.

Preciosa Crystals

The brand was founded in April 1948 in the Czech Republic and is the oldest crystal company in the world. Preciosa is known for its sparkling effect which is used in many chandeliers in castles across the globe.

Preciosa crystals offer high quality that thrives in the art and craft world, offering an assortment of more than 36,000 premium and responsibly sourced fashion and jewelry.

Preciosa crystals are a popular alternative to Swarovski and are known for their excellent quality and brilliance. They offer flat-back options as well, both in regular and AB finishes, at a more affordable price than Swarovski. It offers almost the same colors, shapes, and components as Swarovski.

Tips for Choosing Crystals for Dance Dresses

Posted on by Amy Yang

Consider the Style of Dance

For Latin dances, where vibrant and dramatic movements are common, bold, colorful crystals that highlight movement work well. For ballroom, you might opt for a more classic, elegant look with AB or clear crystals.

Crystal Size

Larger crystals can be used to highlight key areas of the dress (like the neckline or waist), while smaller crystals work well for all-over sparkle. SS20, SS30, and SS34 sizes are popular for focal points, while smaller sizes like SS10 and SS12 are great for detail work.

Placement for Maximum Effect

Place crystals on areas that catch the light most, such as the hemline, bodice, shoulders, and sleeves, to enhance movement and sparkle.

Using high-quality crystals, strategically placed, can make your custom-made dance dress dazzling under stage lights, highlighting every turn and movement.

Characteristics of Latin Dance Dress and Ballroom Dance Dress

Posted on by Amy Yang

Latin and rhythm dresses

During Latin dance competitions, it’s important to impress the judges and the audience visually, as well as in skill. To do this, dancers must pick the perfect dress for Latin American dancing that makes it easy to dance in and is also visually appealing. Latin dresses vary in length but usually go to the knees. They can have open and closed backs and can be sleeveless or have long sleeves. A fringe is one of the most popular decorations in Latin dancewear and emphasizes the movements of the dancer. These dresses may also have drapes and floats, abstract or floral prints, feathers, fur, sequins, slits, and most often, crystals and an empire waist.

Ballroom and standard dresses

To make sure the dance movements are fluid and beautiful to look at, ballroom dance dresses must provide the right requirements to make it easy to dance in as well as visually appealing. Ballroom dance dresses are usually long, almost floor-length, often with long sleeves or sleeveless, open or closed backs, vibrant or simple colors, and may have intricate and sparkling patterns adorned with crystals, sequins, and pearls. Ballroom dance dresses may also have fur to decorate the ends of sleeves or at the chest.

What is Latin American dancing?

Posted on by Amy Yang

Each type of Latin American dance is performed in a pair, with a vibrant blur of colors as the dancers spin and passion in every step.

History

Originating from Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean after being colonized by the Spanish and the Portuguese, its culture reflects Indigenous, African, and European influences. For example, the Mexican Folkloric Dance, or the Baile Folklorico Mexicano, was used in religious and societal practice or for celebrating and rituals of a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences. With Spanish colonization, the dances started incorporating Catholic themes.

Types of Latin Dance

So what are the different types of Latin American dance? There are five categories: the Cha-Cha-Cha, the Rumba, the Samba, the Jive, and the Paso Doble.

The Cha-Cha-Cha is a flirtatious and playful dance known for its dazzling energy. It came from another dance, the Mambo, its old traditions from Africa but its dancing was born in Cuba with the Cha-Cha-Cha along with it. It’s traditionally danced to upbeat Latin or Cuban music, but today it’s common to dance it to pop or R&B. It’s focused on leg movements. In the traditional American style of the Cha-Cha-Cha, the hips move through alternating bending and straightening of the knees. In the International Latin style, the leg that holds the weight of the dancer is almost always straight. The free leg will bend for the natural settling of the weighted leg.

The Rumba is a ballroom dance as well as a Latin American dance that became popular in the United States in the 1930s. The music it’s danced to is a combination of American big band and Afro-Cuban rhythm. Also known as the “Dance of Love”, it’s full of swaying hips, a still upper body, and close partner connections. In competitive-style dancing, the Rumba is the slowest of the five Latin dances.

The Samba came from Afro-Brazilian origins. It was first started by African slaves in Brazil and influenced by Brazilian, Angola, and Congo cultures. It may be danced with or without a partner, with syncopated rhythms, bouncing actions, and rolling hip movements. The solo style of the Samba is used as a celebratory dance in street festivals and parties and can be danced alone in a group of other dancers or with a partner in Latin ballroom Samba.

The Jive came from African-American origin and became very popular in swing clubs and jazz dance halls in the United States. Sometimes described as the more energetic version of the jitterbug and compared to the swing. The Jive involves lively and fast-paced moves, lifts, bending, and hip movement. It’s one of the fastest Latin American dances, making it very hard. In 1968, the Jive became accepted as one of the five international Latin dances in competitive ballroom dancing.

The Paso Doble originated in Spain and was heavily influenced by Spanish bullfighting and Flamenco dancing. In both Paso Doble and Flamenco, the dancers stomp their feet in rhythmic patterns. The Paso Doble imitates a bullfight where the lead is the matador, and the follower plays the matador’s cape, the bull, or a Flamenco dancer. In the early 20th century, the Paso Doble gained popularity in France and spread to other parts of Europe, being initially performed in military parades and other public functions. This dance’s movements are sharp and confident, the heads and chests held high. It’s often performed to march-like music, with staccato footwork, sharp poses, and bold movements. Over time, the Paso Doble evolved into a competitive ballroom dance and became one of the International Latin dances.