Amy Tips

Common Fabric that are used in Latin and ballroom dance dresses

27 June 2024

Amy Yang - Pro Dancer & Steps & Threads Founder

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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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