One two three (pause) five six seven. One two three (pause) five six seven.
So goes the rhythm of basic salsa steps. The beat is etched into my consciousness. Occasionally, I find myself breaking into the footwork, gradually adding turns, throwing in some styles (arm movements), and shines (fancy footwork).
It all comes back to me – the not-so-distant past when I regularly attended classes at Baila Salsa Dance Company. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of studying. The more I immersed myself in dance, the more it became part of my identity. As fashion is all about expressing identity, so is dance. And salsa dance boasts its own style.
Salsa emanates passion, sensuality, and emancipation – the sense of liberation I feel while dancing is unparalleled. In the same vibe, salsa dancewear is sexy and fun.
When I was introduced to salsa in the summer of 2012, I’d usually go dancing in my flats or short heels. Over time, I realized that in order to keep up with the twists, turns, and intricate footwork, I’d need special footwear. Invest in a good pair of Latin dance shoes if you’re serious about dancing!
Ladies’ salsa shoes always have heels. The higher the heel and the more strappy the shoe, the better. To maximize comfort for dancing feet, salsa shoes are flexible and lightweight. Sequins, glitter, and rhinestones also make an unforgettable impression!
Salsa costumes are known for their vibrant colors, shimmer, and style. They often feature a variety of embroidery, sequins, and layers. These patterns are common in both male and female costumes, which are coordinated for a performance.
Salsa attire for men typically includes full-sleeved, loose-fitting shirts and pants. The shirts sometimes feature sequins on the chest, near the pockets, or along the cuffs.
A swinging skirt and a fitted top are typical salsa outfits for women. Many salsa skirts are above the knee, but longer ones work just as well, as long as they are not too long! Slanting, layered skirts add a touch of flirtiness.
Other patterns for women’s costumes include crimped halters, one-shoulder sleeve dresses, mesh skirts, ruffled dresses, and V-neck dresses.
A recent trend in ballroom Latin fashion is the empire-waist dress. It is a great choice for petite dancers because it visually elongates the body.
Latin dance dresses with sequins sparkle great on the dance floor!
And of course, the classic black dress is a great choice for any dancer.
Once widely used in standard dance gowns, feathers were largely absent for a time before making a comeback. Latin costumes adorned with feathers add a classy touch!
Beyond its dazzling fashion and sensual moves, salsa is known for its therapeutic effects. “There have been days when I’m so stressed out from work, school, or family, and I would have to force myself to come to class,” says Thaikisha Alvarez, a Latin dance instructor in New York City. “When I did, for that hour or two, I would forget everything I was stressed about.”
Dancing comes in handy for networking and meeting new people. What better icebreaker than just asking someone to dance and not even needing to know their name!
It’s almost impossible to listen to salsa music without reacting. “Even if I’m just sitting down and listening to a song, all of a sudden my knee starts jerking, my foot starts tapping, and my head starts bobbing…there’s no way I can sit entirely still!” says Thaikisha.
With French romance and Latin sensuality complementing each other so well, it is no surprise that the City of Light boasts a vibrant Latin dance scene! Here are a few venues for dance enthusiasts unafraid to channel their inner sultriness (or for those just wanting to let off a little steam):
This elegant venue, with its ornate staircases, posh dance floors, and opulent atmosphere, hosts salsa classes on Sundays and Mondays.
Barrio Latino, 46 rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75012 Paris
The ultimate stomping ground for Latin dance lovers in Paris, La Pachanga is open every day from 7 pm to 2 am. Entry price is reasonable and includes a drink and a lesson for all levels.
La Pachanga, 8 rue Vandamme, 75014 Paris
Banks of the Seine
Summer nights in Paris aren’t the same without dancing on the waterfront under the stars, well into the night. On Friday evenings, the public is invited to open-air dancing at various locations along the Seine. Venues include Rosa Bonheur sur Seine, La Plage de Gazart, and Quai Saint Bernard. There are even free classes starting at 7 pm, with styles ranging from salsa to kizomba to merengue to bachata.
Many salsa communities are incredibly friendly, fostering a positive, confidence-building atmosphere. As you learn the dance, your newfound confidence and sense of accomplishment will inevitably energize other areas of your daily life.
Salsa On!