The Dress Code

A dress code ensures that a teacher will be able to see a dancer’s alignment and positioning. The teacher needs to be able to see a dancer’s mistakes. Baggy clothing can mask bad habits, making corrections impossible. Dress code will also teach students discipline, helping with overall focus and energy. By “dressing the part,” dancers feel like dancers. Dress codes can also create unity among the dancers instead of causing a few dancers to stand out, much like a school uniform policy. Dress codes go a long way in minimizing distractions, and help give classes a unified look.

All of our classes at WGDC require students to adhere to a dress code.  Hair should always be pulled up and secured off the neck – (for shorter hair – clips and barrettes should be used to keep the hair out of the eyes).  Bun is the required hairstyle for most classes. Ponytails and braids are acceptable for others. See full dress code listing on our website.

The proper shoes are important because they are designed to support the technique and style of each specific type of dance. Street shoes are bad for dance floors – leaving scuffs and dirt.  Street shoes and socks also contribute to breaking down the non-slip surface of the specialized rubber floors called Marley. Street shoes are ONLY appropriate for hip hop classes.

Non-dance attire like shorts and sweats, baggy coverups, and other layers like tank-tops and t-shirts are counterproductive to a student’s training.  Ill-fitting clothes may restrict movement or become a distraction if a student is constantly having to readjust pieces of clothing.  When layers disguise the lines of the body a teacher cannot see if the student is executing the movement correctly and cannot help them adjust to improve their technique and prevent injury.  Students should dress appropriately for the weather and consider purchasing a dance sweater if they get cold in the dance studio – students will not be allowed to wear hoodies, sweaters, etc.

Thank you for helping us provide the best atmosphere and learning environment possible for your children.