2008 Dance Fashion Trend

[Yanou]

You can put everything you like... as much as you like.... (for latin dresses)

[Larinda McRaven]

Sorry Yanou, hyperlinks and linking outside of DF is not allowed for new members.

[Yanou]

ah, sorry about that.....

[hustleNflow]

Really strappy dresses seem to be popular right now...

http://www.artrhythms.com/Manhattan_2008/Bree_Watson_Decho_Kraev_1.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/USDSC_2007/Evgeny_Inna_3_USDSC_2007.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/USDSC_2007/Emmanuel_Julia_12_USDSC_2007.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/USDSC_2007/Felipe_Carolina_2_USDSC_2007.htm

[Standarddancer]

wow! they are all really nice and tastefully designed

[hustleNflow]

wow! they are all really nice and tastefully designed

Yah, I was actually pleasantly surprised...a lot of times, I feel like dresses with a lot of straps tend to look, well, bondage-y :shock: But these are nice...however, I think you have to have a fantastic upper body to pull it off (read: very little body fat!) or else the straps tend to make skin "puff out"...not sure I'd be able to wear some of these dresses myself :oops:

[SwingWaltz]

http://www.dancesportphoto.net/2007%5Faustralians/New%20Folder%20%2850%29/pages/_0029438.htm

I find this dress particularly interesting, it's meant to look like a butterfly when the lady has both arms extended sideways.

[hustleNflow]

http://www.dancesportphoto.net/2007%5Faustralians/New%20Folder%20%2850%29/pages/_0029438.htm

I find this dress particularly interesting, it's meant to look like a butterfly when the lady has both arms extended sideways.

Hmmm...I like the right half of it. The butterfly is a cool idea, but it looks more Halloween-costumey to me than Latin costumey. Like one of those pairs of mesh butterfly wings you can buy for $7 at a Halloween shop :(

[K_8ie]

Fringes are in, long ones....anything sequency (80's style), longer skirts, and the bob haircut ( I am sooooo over it). Slim heels are also in.

That's what comes to mind.

[Standarddancer]

Hmmm...I like the right half of it. The butterfly is a cool idea, but it looks more Halloween-costumey to me than Latin costumey. Like one of those pairs of mesh butterfly wings you can buy for $7 at a Halloween shop :(

agree with ya that butterfly wing more halloween than latin; when I first look at it I felt something "strange" but couldn't find the right word to describe...yap it's just bit halloween look, would be great for a show if suitable for the theme

[Standarddancer]

Slim heels are also in.



really? dancesport.uk dot come shoe section had slogan saying something like "slim era is over for standard, Flared heel still dominate Latin..."

[K_8ie]

really? dancesport.uk dot come shoe section had slogan saying something like "slim era is over for standard, Flared heel still dominate Latin..."

Really? Where? Ironic, because on the front page of their shoe store the have new supadance styles with slim heels.

[hereKittyKitty]

They (supa) are calling it the "slim designer heel". This is how they started with the flare heel. I only noticed it on a few new latin shoes. If it becomes popular then it will start to dominate.

[Standarddancer]

I saw that slogan a while ago when they first introduce the supa standard coutour heel; now they removed the slogan however it is possibly true that supa intended to slowly phase out all slim heel style standard shoes; I heard this news a while ago but couldn't believe but now I just browse their site and noticed only 2 styles of standard shoes come with slim heel: supa 1008 & 1001. The rest supa std shoes are all in either coutour or flared. I know it's a sad news for many DF ladies here who loves slim std shoes.

The front page latin shoe that you are looking at is actually not slim heel, it's a flared heel (maybe this new "designer slim"), but they made it so beautifully so it appears "slim" and enhances nice leg lines:)

[hustleNflow]

Not so much of a fashion trend as a hairstyle-trend, but I've noticed a lot more ladies with long hair are wearing it down (especially in rhythm) and half pulled back, as opposed to the traditional slicked down, pulled back into a low bun or cut into a short bob. Examples:

http://www.artrhythms.com/OhioStarBall2007/Joanna_Zacheriwicz.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/Manhattan_2007/Lori_Ritter.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/Manhattan_2008/Inna_Ivanenko_Evgeny_Dyanchenko_11.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/Manhattan_2008/Michael_Neil_Danielle_Wilson_2.htm

Personally, I love it! :D Doesn't look as severe as the traditional bun, very feminine, moves well with the dance and doesn't get in the way (if styled properly!). Especially love the pulled-back-on-the-sides "faux hawk" look that Joanna and Danielle have been sporting :cool:

[_malakawa_]

Really strappy dresses seem to be popular right now...

http://www.artrhythms.com/Manhattan_2008/Bree_Watson_Decho_Kraev_1.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/USDSC_2007/Evgeny_Inna_3_USDSC_2007.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/USDSC_2007/Emmanuel_Julia_12_USDSC_2007.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/USDSC_2007/Felipe_Carolina_2_USDSC_2007.htm

I just don't like that "stripe" (I don't know have else to call it) between the legs.:cool:

[_malakawa_]

supadance.com/acatalog/Style_1062.html

I like those. :p

[ashybang]

Professional Paso Final at Blackpool 2008.


NHSQoEVdtC8


Couple Number 130.
Yulia`s dress was my favourite at the Blackpool festival.


Couple Number 140 (Green dress)
Oxanas dress and Francos shirt for that matter did stand out quite a bit.
I wasn`t too sure about the sleeves on Oxanas dress, however she did look fantastic.
Franco had an oriental look with that shirt. (Chinese restaurant style). lol.

Couple Number 297.
I did like the pink dress of Melinda. Wasn`t too sure about the long front bit though.

White shirts were the order of the day for the Professional men with 4 of the six finalists wearing them.

[hereKittyKitty]

Did anyone else see the "Shoe Embellishments" on dancesport uk. So cute:)

[K_8ie]

http://www.dancesportinfo.net/Couple/Andrei_Zaitsev_and_Anna_Kuzminskaja_973/Photos.aspx

Check it out for yourselves, she's only one of many wearing slim heels...

[chas27]

I noticed several Latin dancers with pony-tails at USDC with rhinestone accents as opposed to the traditional "bun" look ....I love it too...so simple and easy to do!


Not so much of a fashion trend as a hairstyle-trend, but I've noticed a lot more ladies with long hair are wearing it down (especially in rhythm) and half pulled back, as opposed to the traditional slicked down, pulled back into a low bun or cut into a short bob. Examples:

http://www.artrhythms.com/OhioStarBall2007/Joanna_Zacheriwicz.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/Manhattan_2007/Lori_Ritter.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/Manhattan_2008/Inna_Ivanenko_Evgeny_Dyanchenko_11.htm
http://www.artrhythms.com/Manhattan_2008/Michael_Neil_Danielle_Wilson_2.htm

Personally, I love it! :D Doesn't look as severe as the traditional bun, very feminine, moves well with the dance and doesn't get in the way (if styled properly!). Especially love the pulled-back-on-the-sides "faux hawk" look that Joanna and Danielle have been sporting :cool:

[Kassia]

Did anyone else see the "Shoe Embellishments" on dancesport uk. So cute:)

Hmmm it seems that the "real" world and the dance world are starting to switch places..
Shoe Embellisments were all the rage in the 80's... Everyone wore them.. I still have some..
And as i look for new winter shoes all i see is flared heels out there..
The round toed mary janes all have a flared heel on them now.. I can't help but thing alot of the shoes i see out there look like my flamenco shoes or would be good to dance in...

[Kassia]

I noticed several Latin dancers with pony-tails at USDC with rhinestone accents as opposed to the traditional "bun" look ....I love it too...so simple and easy to do!

Looks like a picture of Jessican Simpson i saw once..

[Stagekat]

IMHO.. the "strappy" dresses... don't leave quite enough to the imagination... I think it's another example of the dress taking away from the dancing.

Love the ponytails...just as long as they don't whip across their partners faces...(not a big fan of the couple I've seen actually sewn to the shoulder...it's just not right if the hair doesn't move)

I know my pro has gotten a mouthfull of my ponytail before...but then that could have just been me being an inexperienced follow. There is a pro at my studio that has exceptionally long hair and I have yet to see her ponytail whip her partner when they dance.

I've noticed a few Latin/rhythm shoes out there on the floors that look a little more like the dressed up Salsa shoes... again... could be an asset.. if it's overdone it could be harder to spot the lines of the foot...or make the foot look heavy.

Everything in some degree of moderation...
(OMG... In that one statement.. I just became my mother! ACK!!)

[mamboqueen]

Everything in some degree of moderation...
(OMG... In that one statement.. I just became my mother! ACK!!)

heh...wait till you hear your voice/words coming out of your daughter's mouth!!

Not into that strappy look so much myself; it was actually in several years ago (I remember Karina having one). And yes, that last one does leave very l_i_t_t_l_e to the imagination!

[Zhena]

heh...wait till you hear your voice/words coming out of your daughter's mouth!!



What's even wierder is hearing your mother's voice/words coming out of your daughter's mouth!!!

[mamboqueen]

no...I definitely couldn't handle that!

[Zhena]

I think I may have mentioned it before ... skimpy, glittery costumes are one of the things that emphasize the "subculture" aspects of ballroom dance. Usually when I mention that I dance, one of the first questions is "do you actually have to wear those outfits?" (Ummmm ... no, no way, no how, NO.) Even the smooth/standard "gowns" are somewhat scary-looking to an outsider.

These costumes all well and good if you're willing to keep ballroom as a subculture. And I admit some of the outfits my daughter and her friends wear are much less conservative (more skimpy and glittery) than what I was wearing at her age. But if you have any desire to pull more people into dancing, especially into competitive dancing, it might be wise to consider ways to defuse the perception that the outfits are a necessary part of the activity.

[Laura]

It's not helping that on every season of DWtS that the ladies' costumes, even for the Smooth dances, are getting skimpier and skimpier.

I'd like to see more of that old-time Hollywood glamor/Ginger Rogers type look come back.

By the way, Max W. in his book "Dance to your Maximum" actually very briefly touches on this topic, in the context of talking about scary makeup. I felt validated to know that one of the great minds of DanceSport has been considering this "how we look to outsiders" effect -- that it's not just middle-aged ladies like myself who notice/think about these things.

[wooh]

I think dancing on TV is having at least a positive effect on the makeup. I noticed on woman's makeup from season to season on PBS has looked decidedly less drag-queenish.:) TV shows that you can get the pop without being too over the top.
But I agree that I also do miss that Ginger Rogers-esqueness of ballgowns. Not that they aren't pretty now. But they can be pretty and still cover some skin.:)

[danceronice]

I'm a fan of the braided ponytail, myself. Fortunately for my pro my new dress looks better with a bun as he's taken the ponytail to the face a couple times. (My Standard/Smooth pro, who doesn't usually have to deal with that, after meeting the ponytail of doom at a party declared it a deadly weapon.)

I'll have to give some thought to the half-down look, though, if I can just figure out how to make it look decent. Can you get those foam haircurler thingies through airport security? If they're in your hair?

I don't so much have a problem with showing skin. I'm trying to find the easiest way to get my body in a fit state to show that much skin!

[hustleNflow]

I think dancing on TV is having at least a positive effect on the makeup. I noticed on woman's makeup from season to season on PBS has looked decidedly less drag-queenish.:) TV shows that you can get the pop without being too over the top.
But I agree that I also do miss that Ginger Rogers-esqueness of ballgowns. Not that they aren't pretty now. But they can be pretty and still cover some skin.:)

I agree...I think it shows more of a migration from the traditionally "theatrical" aspect of ballroom dancing to a more organic, "all about the dancing" approach. If you pay attention to the pix of Joanna and Danielle especially, they tend not to wear a whole lot of makeup while competing. I don't even think Joanna wears eyelashes or tans heavily. And she is the current champ! Carolina is also wearing less makeup than when she first started, and Inna as well. Everyone seems to be focusing more on their dancing and less on their appearance, which I like :D

On a related costuming front, I have always admired Eugene & Maria for this reason - their costuming is always super simple, non-sparkly and easy to move in...as if they're saying "We're about the dancing, not the costumes!"

[_malakawa_]

Did anyone else see the "Shoe Embellishments" on dancesport uk. So cute:)


too expensive. I put stones on almost every shoes that I bought. You just need a little bit of inspiration. ;)

@ HNF - Joanna wears quite a lot of make up. Just under all those lights you can't see that. And most of the dancers are using 2,3 eyeshadows - white or silver and black. (on some of them that looks great, but on some of them it looks "no comment")

[Zhena]

Showing skin ... hmmm ... why is it "necessary" in order to catch a judge's eye or please an audience? Okay, so the latin/rhythm dances are supposed to be sexy, but not to the exclusion of other qualities like graceful, strong, elegant, romantic, or playful. The same applies even more to smooth and standard. Maybe some of the old-fashioned costumes obscured some of the body lines and movements, but do the super-skimpy ones really enhance the dancing?

It's not so much the skin itself that bothers me, but the way certain costumes are designed ... the overuse of trash and flash ... one-upmanship ... skirting the boundaries of "wardrobe malfunctions" ... lack of restraint ... focus on secondary sexual characteristics rather than lines ... and the wannabes who can't carry off the looks that the higher level dancers use to good effect ...

[dressgirl]

Just a comment.......remember the dress is not designed for the audience or the judges. It is designed for the dancer. And hopefully, in the case of all the photos you guys have referenced, with the dancer's input or by their direction. I believe that each person shows by their dancing how they feel inside a dress, and I can tell you for sure, that a lot of the girls in those photos would agree with me.

So while you might not wear straps across your hip, (and mind you me neither :) ), that may be exactly what that girl needs to feel right doing what she is doing. Hard to imagine, but sometimes you just have to be close to naked to get the groove on. Me, I would prefer to put on a nun's habit, but I realize that is just me.

And, I think anyone who has seen Blackpool, or photos of the full range of people dancing there (not just the final or semi) will tell you that there may be trends, but there is still alot of what makes you feel good on the floor. And that is true for standard as well as latin.

As for American Smooth, almost anything goes. Just look at the semi and the final of USDSC. Laura......I think there was a little Ginger in there!

[Kassia]

And there is a huge difference between sexy and sensual..

[_malakawa_]

Just a comment.......remember the dress is not designed for the audience or the judges. It is designed for the dancer. And hopefully, in the case of all the photos you guys have referenced, with the dancer's input or by their direction. I believe that each person shows by their dancing how they feel inside a dress, and I can tell you for sure, that a lot of the girls in those photos would agree with me.

So while you might not wear straps across your hip, (and mind you me neither :) ), that may be exactly what that girl needs to feel right doing what she is doing. Hard to imagine, but sometimes you just have to be close to naked to get the groove on. Me, I would prefer to put on a nun's habit, but I realize that is just me.



really nicely said. I don't have problems with showing some skin. I have different type of dresses. It just depends on my mood which one I'll wear.

[QPO]

I think the photo that swingwaltz is referring to does not give the dress proper justice from the angle at which it shows it. Sriani (that is her name) has a great figure, but a very short neck, wears her hair in a bob that makes her look like she has no neck, I find that more disconcerting :-(

[QPO]

Currently I see lots of fringes and tassles making their way onto the dance floor again. Will we see the return of the feathers!

[dressgirl]

there were feathers at USDSC......and some planned for the international as well as OHIO. I do believe they will not be in boas.....in fact, in my world, they definitely will not be in boas. And unfortunately, they will add cost to the dress. To custom dye feathers it costs a lot.....no matter how you do them.

[Laura]

To custom dye feathers it costs a lot.....no matter how you do them.
I've done ostrich feathers in my washing machine. It wasn't so much the dyeing that was expensive, but the tedious clean-up afterward added much costly labor to the garment!

[hereKittyKitty]

I know this thread is mostly about latin dresses, but can I venture to ask- Is the ruffle dress sticking around for standard? I was not at Embassy or Usdsc to observe so I'm not sure what was popular there.

I ask this question in earnest because there is a dress designer seeking my advice.

[dressgirl]

herekittykitty look at your pm.

Laura, I can appreciate your talent with your washing machine......have been there, but I am talking dyeing to the neon shades....which although is possible, is much trickier. Plus I am dealing with a different kind of feather product than a boa.

[Zhena]

Just a comment.......remember the dress is not designed for the audience or the judges. It is designed for the dancer. And hopefully, in the case of all the photos you guys have referenced, with the dancer's input or by their direction. I believe that each person shows by their dancing how they feel inside a dress, and I can tell you for sure, that a lot of the girls in those photos would agree with me.

So while you might not wear straps across your hip, (and mind you me neither :) ), that may be exactly what that girl needs to feel right doing what she is doing. Hard to imagine, but sometimes you just have to be close to naked to get the groove on. Me, I would prefer to put on a nun's habit, but I realize that is just me.

And, I think anyone who has seen Blackpool, or photos of the full range of people dancing there (not just the final or semi) will tell you that there may be trends, but there is still alot of what makes you feel good on the floor. And that is true for standard as well as latin.

As for American Smooth, almost anything goes. Just look at the semi and the final of USDSC. Laura......I think there was a little Ginger in there!

Your point here just reinforces my earlier point about how the costumes affect the way outsiders view the dance competition subculture. If you have to be close to naked to get your groove on, doesn't that imply something about what competitive dancing is now?

Smooth and standard may be a little more restrained, but I still see a lot more costumes that say "sexy" than ones that say "elegant" ... and the excuse I've seen here on DF is that you have to do whatever will get you noticed.

You may not have looked in on the thread about getting social dancers involved in competition ... I think part of what causes some resistance is the over-emphasis on sexy moves and sexy costumes ... I concede that sexy has its place, but if being close to naked is the dominant note rather than an occasional jolt, you (the competitive community, not dressgirl in particular) can't then complain that there's not enough interest from other dancers. People will take a quick look, say "I could never do that" and move on to something else.

Just my two cents ....

[Joe]

I've done ostrich feathers in my washing machine. It wasn't so much the dyeing that was expensive, but the tedious clean-up afterward added much costly labor to the garment!
How did you get them to fluff out as nicely as they were before washing/dyeing?

[hustleNflow]

I've done ostrich feathers in my washing machine. It wasn't so much the dyeing that was expensive, but the tedious clean-up afterward added much costly labor to the garment!

Bless your heart, woman...I am so darn allergic to feathers it's not even funny! Hence the reason I will never own a feathered costume, and prolly why I don't much care for feathers on others...it just makes me so darn sick! I have to take Benadryl at comps just in case someone's costume is made of ostrich feathers :oops:

[Laura]

How did you get them to fluff out as nicely as they were before washing/dyeing?
I don't remember! I know I brushed them with something, but I can't recall what. This was a long time ago and I think I forgot everything after dealing with the mess in the washer.

[and123]

blow dryer?

[Standarddancer]

but can I venture to ask- Is the ruffle dress sticking around for standard?

I'm curious to know how long it's gonna to last too. Could Dressgirl also send the same pm to herekittykitty to me too? thanks so much:)

I saw a lot of Italian dancers in ruffle dresses in Embassy.

I never like the heavy look of feather boa dresses. Feather fringe much better.

[skwiggy]

I'm curious to know how long it's gonna to last too. Could Dressgirl also send the same pm to herekittykitty to me too? thanks so much:)

Me three please? :D

[Standarddancer]

lol. I'm sure you and me are not the only ones curious about this. This ruffle fashion piqued a lot of people's interest.

[Dancebug]

Me three please? :D
Me, too, me, too, please?

[mamboqueen]

Me three please? :D

I will predict another 6 months, max. I just can't see that trend going until next Blackpool. But of course, that's with the caveat that I'm not a fashion professional.

Is everyone contemplating a ruffle dress purchase? Or just not crazy about it?

[Dancebug]

Is everyone contemplating a ruffle dress purchase? Or just not crazy about it?
For me, it is a temptation thing. I have so many dresses, so I do not need another dress. But I feel one ruffle style will complete my dress collection. So I constantly fight the urge to buy one.

[mamboqueen]

For me, it is a temptation thing. I have so many dresses, so I do not need another dress. But I feel one ruffle style will complete my dress collection. So I constantly fight the urge to buy one.

Well, for me, I'd think about the likelihood of reselling it...unless you plan on wearing it a lot and don't care if it's hard to unload in a year (think about the quantity that will be out there, too). I just see this style dress as being one of those that when it's "out", it's "out". Trendy dresses are always going to be hard to sell, imo, until the next time it trends back in.

[hustleNflow]

I'm wondering the same thing about green dresses of both styles...they seem to be really "in" right now, but I can see the green trend ending within the next year or so. I really want a green rhythm dress, tho :cool:

[Dancebug]

Well, for me, I'd think about the likelihood of reselling it...unless you plan on wearing it a lot and don't care if it's hard to unload in a year (think about the quantity that will be out there, too). I just see this style dress as being one of those that when it's "out", it's "out". Trendy dresses are always going to be hard to sell, imo, until the next time it trends back in.
MQ,
Thank you for saying this.

[mamboqueen]

well crikey, I don't want to be responsible for you not having the dress of your dreams....maybe others can chime in with their opinions. eeee!

(rental is always an option, too!)

[Katarzyna]

I'm wondering the same thing about green dresses of both styles...they seem to be really "in" right now, but I can see the green trend ending within the next year or so. I really want a green rhythm dress, tho :cool:
colors out there on the floor seem to be closely connected with what is the new special collection color from Chrisanne. but when a color works on you well, it really doesnt matter if its in or out...

[Katarzyna]

well crikey, I don't want to be responsible for you not having the dress of your dreams....maybe others can chime in with their opinions. eeee!

(rental is always an option, too!)
I think you have more time in US with ruffly ones than you do in europe, its like they are still catching on.. many people who dont compete much will have only seen them around first time at embassy.. so in us its only getting adopted now.. but have a feeling internationally it will be out soon

[mamboqueen]

unless your a df member...I'm already sick of them, and I liked them at first.

[and123]

I think there are "extreme" versions of this type of gown that would be a very hard sell once it's considered "out". The more subtle ruffle dresses have a classic feminine look to them and will probably stick around longer and be easier to re-sell.

[_malakawa_]

I just don't like buying a dresses. I bought my first dress when I just started to dance, and one dress later. All other dresses I made.

[Katarzyna]

I'd wear any color that looks good on me , and will not wear a color because its in

[mamboqueen]

I think there are "extreme" versions of this type of gown that would be a very hard sell once it's considered "out". The more subtle ruffle dresses have a classic feminine look to them and will probably stick around longer and be easier to re-sell.

I agree; the more you can stay close to classic, the better the chance for longevity. Unless, of course, you like going into the attic every 10 years and have that thrill of "so glad I hung onto this"!

[mamboqueen]

I'd wear any color that looks good on me , and will not wear a color because its in

you are on the money with the color comments. Some colors that are "in" don't look good on everyone. Better go go with one that really "wows" for you. Honestly, I'm really not one for being in something overtly trendy, both stylistically and color-wise. I don't want to look like everyone else on the floor. Of course, don't want to stand out in a bad way either...

[Katarzyna]

you are on the money with the color comments. Some colors that are "in" don't look good on everyone. Better go go with one that really "wows" for you. Honestly, I'm really not one for being in something overtly trendy, both stylistically and color-wise. I don't want to look like everyone else on the floor. Of course, don't want to stand out in a bad way either...
i like trends when you can get hold onto them before everyone else does :)

[hustleNflow]

I generally look good in green (hazel/green eyes, red hair, olive complexion), so I guess that works in my favor for a green costume :cool:
Plus, I think fewer people wear it because its harder to pull off...unless you're Joanna Zacherwicz and can wear almost any color and any style cause you look so darn good in it! :rolleyes:

[mamboqueen]

i like trends when you can get hold onto them before everyone else does :)

yes...nice to be the trendsetter!

[samina]

I'm wondering the same thing about green dresses of both styles...they seem to be really "in" right now, but I can see the green trend ending within the next year or so. I really want a green rhythm dress, tho :cool:

i know my pro has expressed a specific dislike for green gowns..."not ballroomy".

i think he hasn't seen kat's gorgeous shamrock dress, tho.:rolleyes:

[Katarzyna]

:oops::oops::oops::oops:

[mamboqueen]

I generally look good in green (hazel/green eyes, red hair, olive complexion), so I guess that works in my favor for a green costume :cool:
Plus, I think fewer people wear it because its harder to pull off...unless you're Joanna Zacherwicz and can wear almost any color and any style cause you look so darn good in it! :rolleyes:

one of my new dresses is lime green (actually even lighter than a lime) and aqua and goes very well with my coloring. it will go even better when I inject some fiery red into my hair :).

[mamboqueen]

:oops::oops::

oh yeah, shy...i forgot! ;)

[Katarzyna]

I am getting another shamrock one for me,, since the first was wrong cut. I do like that color on me period..

[Katarzyna]

oh yeah, shy...i forgot! ;)
hey we can pretend :)

[Laura]

I think you have more time in US with ruffly ones than you do in europe, its like they are still catching on.. many people who dont compete much will have only seen them around first time at embassy.. so in us its only getting adopted now.. but have a feeling internationally it will be out soon
I agree with this.

If you really want a ruffle dress, why not do it in a more classic way so that it will be easier to resell? They don't have to be all stiffened and sticking out like whipped cream on a cake to still be fun and pretty.

[samina]

:oops::oops::oops::oops:

huh?

[samina]

oh yeah, shy...i forgot! ;)

ah, yes...that's it!

[mamboqueen]

I agree with this.

If you really want a ruffle dress, why not do it in a more classic way so that it will be easier to resell? They don't have to be all stiffened and sticking out like whipped cream on a cake to still be fun and pretty.

this is the problem with these dresses - I see them and immediately look for the dessert bar!

[Laura]

Mmmm, whipped cream :) :)

[mamboqueen]

yeah...homemade, though, right?? ;)

[Laura]

Of course! But I do put it in one of those ISI thingys, it just whips better that way.

[Standarddancer]

Mmmm, whipped cream :) :)

lol. some of the ruffle dress do look like wedding cake with cream hanging out:p

[Standarddancer]

I am getting another shamrock one for me,, since the first was wrong cut. I do like that color on me period..

I don't find anything wrong with your 1st shamrock dress. nice cut for your back, nice on pics

[Standarddancer]

I'd wear any color that looks good on me , and will not wear a color because its in

I absolutely agree with you on this one;)

[Standarddancer]

unless your a df member...I'm already sick of them, and I liked them at first.

I like some of the nicely designed subtle one, some classy style with a bit of ruffle touch, or just a little bit multiple layers near the hem without that puffy or stiffness. Some of the bad crazily puffy ones make the ladies' hip area look bigger:( I saw some of the nice ones with ruffle inserts instead of crazy multiple puffy layers which are interesting.

[njdancegirl]

one of my new dresses is lime green (actually even lighter than a lime) and aqua and goes very well with my coloring. it will go even better when I inject some fiery red into my hair :).

MQ, did she finish them? Happy with the results? Pics?

[mamboqueen]

I like some of the nicely designed subtle one, some classy style with a bit of ruffle touch, or just a little bit multiple layers near the hem without that puffy or stiffness. Some of the bad crazily puffy ones make the ladies' hip area look bigger:( I saw some of the nice ones with ruffle inserts instead of crazy multiple puffy layers which are interesting.

And for me, it becomes a distraction. I do not have a particularly discerning eye when it comes to standard as it is, so it's even more difficult when a very big/busy dress is moving across the floor.

[mamboqueen]

MQ, did she finish them? Happy with the results? Pics?

Yes, quite thrilled ... especially given the price (approx $700 each, mega-stoned). I'll try to get some photos this weekend. I just hate wearing them with my skin color being as pale as it is. But yes, they did a fantastic job and they are very well constructed. You just jogged me that I need to get some earrings though... :)

[Standarddancer]

And for me, it becomes a distraction. I do not have a particularly discerning eye when it comes to standard as it is, so it's even more difficult when a very big/busy dress is moving across the floor.

I see what you mean by distraction. Some super busy big ones actually cover up too much leg actions and foot work. Some technical oriented guys hate seeing them because they want to see simple dresses on dancers so they can see technique better.

[Katarzyna]

I don't find anything wrong with your 1st shamrock dress. nice cut for your back, nice on pics
hate fit on me

[skwiggy]

I'd wear any color that looks good on me , and will not wear a color because its in

The fact that a color is "in" is even more reason not to wear it in my opinion. I never want to be one of 5+ girls on the floor wearing the same color. ;)

And I agree it's best to wear colors that suit the individual.

[Standarddancer]

The fact that a color is "in" is even more reason not to wear it in my opinion. I never want to be one of 5+ girls on the floor wearing the same color. ;)



that's so true:) but if it's a very unusual color like green shamrock, not so many girls have this color dress, it could make you stand out if you happene to be the 1st one wear it before the majority population join the trend;)

[Katarzyna]

lol its ok to be one of 10 wearing red or blue ;0

[Kitty]

The fact that a color is "in" is even more reason not to wear it in my opinion. I never want to be one of 5+ girls on the floor wearing the same color. ;)

And I agree it's best to wear colors that suit the individual.

well, usually it takes time for colors to catch on... if you are the first one to make a dress in this color, you will probably be the only person in the color on the floor for the next half a year to a year.. about a year later, after everyone saw your dress and decided to make or buy on in the same color, that's when 5 people on the floor are wearing that color and you already have a new dress...

also, even if there are several dresses on the floor in a color, the new chrisanne colors usually have the effect of just being "new" and "fresh" as compared to before. Everyone already has seen every shade of pink imaginable.. so seeing a vibrant green that has not appeared on the floor once in the last 15 years is shocking, in a good way. looks new, almost regardless of how many people on the floor are wearing the same color..

of course it is best to wear a color that suits you, but with ballroom dresses and makeup, almost any color dress will look good if it is made nice and the makeup is right.. people only see you from far away, they won't be able to figure out that green really matches my eyes... or blue..

[Kitty]

lol. some of the ruffle dress do look like wedding cake with cream hanging out:p

Katushas white dress with red trim from blackpool looks to me like vanilla ice cream with red cherry sauce on top... i get hungry just looking at the pictures of Katusha in that dress!

[Standarddancer]

lol. very unique dress. Definitely outstanding. I like the white but not the red cherry sauce. katusha looks good in it probably just because her dancing, not the dress itself. Such dress would be hard to re-sell; usually very trendy unique bold dresses only be worn on top dancers since they are all sponsored and no worry about selling.

[Standarddancer]

Katushas white dress with red trim from blackpool looks to me like vanilla ice cream with red cherry sauce on top... i get hungry just looking at the pictures of Katusha in that dress!

I don't think this dress is as nice as her other 2 blackpool dresses. Her yellowish greenish tulle one is the most stunning (more classy). The blue ruffle is also better than this one. Doesn't matter, when your dancing is that great, you look good in almost anything;)

[Katarzyna]

I have to disagree, I think its really nice and classy.. and I think this one would be a really easy sell.. very typical combination of colors and ruffle design is a lot closer to classy than anything else... but thats just my personal opinion...

[Merrylegs]

Such dress would be hard to re-sell; usually very trendy unique bold dresses only be worn on top dancers since they are all sponsored and no worry about selling.

Yes, but when the dresses do become available for sale, it's a very cool thing to say that you are wearing one of XXXX's dresses. Everyone knows that a pro's sponsored dress is very high quality and usually is worn just a few times.

I've owned dresses by Donna Shingler, Carrie Babcock (2) and JT Thomas.

[Standarddancer]

Agree sponsored dresses are usually great quality. However it doesn't really matter for me if I'm wearing XXX's dresses. I owned one of Katusha's dresses before and tried her others which were not working out well for me either cos color or style or fitting not suitable for me. It all depends on if the dress suits your color, body type or style. A nice dress looks great on one of the top dancers not necessarily means good on me.

[Standarddancer]

I have to disagree, I think its really nice and classy.. and I think this one would be a really easy sell.. very typical combination of colors and ruffle design is a lot closer to classy than anything else... but thats just my personal opinion...

anyway regardless you or me like it or not, this dress probably $5000+, it's Taka dress, such bold design + such high price would be hard to sell, might be some rich ladies want it immediately after seeing Katusha danced beautifully in it, but after a while, could be difficult for this lady to sell.

[Katarzyna]

i so many like that from italy, one of most typical color combinations for ruffle gowns from italy..well if you buy one of taka dresses you dont buy to sell.. you plan to have it for a long time.. when you buy a new car you know you will loose money on it..

[Merrylegs]

Agree sponsored dresses are usually great quality. However it doesn't really matter for me if I'm wearing XXX's dresses. I owned one of Katusha's dresses before and tried her others which were not working out well for me either cos color or style or fitting not suitable for me. It all depends on if the dress suits your color, body type or style. A nice dress looks great on one of the top dancers not necessarily means good on me.

I never said to buy it just because it was owned by a top pro. That's dumb. Of course you would buy the dress if it were right for you. And if not for you, then the dress is for someone else.

There are lot's of other dancers out in the world.

[Merrylegs]

anyway regardless you or me like it or not, this dress probably $5000+, it's Taka dress, such bold design + such high price would be hard to sell, might be some rich ladies want it immediately after seeing Katusha danced beautifully in it, but after a while, could be difficult for this lady to sell.

But she wouldn't be re-selling it for $5k because it would have been worn several times. Everyone knows that you are supposed to mark down the price depending on the wear of the dress.

What stands out in my mind was a comment Laura made some time ago about marking the dress down 10% for each time it's been worn. (I think that's what she said, I may be incorrectly quoting her.)

You can't buy a used Taka dress for $5k then wear it a bunch of times and still expect to get $5k for it.

[Standarddancer]

probably after she wear for a few comps the dress still in good condition but even though if she mark down to $3500 might still not as easy to sell. well depends on her luck if she finds the correct buyer.

what if she wear it twice and tired of such style? how much she should mark down? to $4000? then she either stuck with it or lose money get rid of it.

[Merrylegs]

I guess it would depend on how badly she wanted to sell it.

[Katarzyna]

well generaly regarding of style selling 3.5k used dress not through the actual designer is nearly impossible.. it happens but if you decide to buy designer dress like that you will most likely loose about half... even chrisanne with resale through designer gives the Seller 50% of sale price or 70% of sale rice towards their new dress...

so if she wants it badly enough she will pay 5k for it but she will know she will loose a lot on it... regardless how you look at it

[Standarddancer]

so if she wants it badly enough she will pay 5k for it but she will know she will loose a lot on it... regardless how you look at it

exactly. that's what I mean by she either stuck with it or lose a lot of money selling.

[Katarzyna]

but that has nothing to do with the style of dress... you can say that about any dress from that designer due to high original price

[dressgirl]

The sponsor determines the price.....not the pro. And Taka was still selling Carmen's dresses from last year at the same price they had for them last year. Taka has a very high quality of their couture line......and just ok for their "factory" line. I truly don't think they plan on selling many dresses in the US.....if they did, they would approach the whole thing a little differently. So, the price is really targeted at the Far East market, which is another whole thing altogether.

My "secret" pm to herekittykitty: I don't know whether ruffles will be here or not forever. I do feel that they represent a forward movement for standard. And I do feel that they give a couple a certain volume.......and that seems to be seconded by the powers that be in the UK. I also think that to a certain degree, right now, you can wear what you want, as long as it represents who you are on the floor and makes you feel like dancing. I don't think that you should think that you can go out in a cocktail dress for a final at Ohio, no matter what your level is, and think that someone isn't going to take you to task. Nor do I think that wearing a dress that is 20 years old in the same division is going to be accepted. Feathers, pleating, lace, penny sequins, sequins in general, charmeuse......they were all "in" 15-20 years ago. But you can tell a dress from today vs a dress from then fairly easily.

Just my thoughts........nothing more than that.

And Shamrock.......well either you can wear it or you can't. There is very little middle ground. It has a lot of yellow undertones to it. The Jade and DSI'S blue zircon are better colors for a lot of people.

[Laura]

What stands out in my mind was a comment Laura made some time ago about marking the dress down 10% for each time it's been worn. (I think that's what she said, I may be incorrectly quoting her.)
Yes, that's my personal rule of thumb for dresses that I've bought and then resold or that I made and then resold.

I think it's different for sponsored dresses, though -- it's not like Katusha is the one setting the price and getting the money for the Taka dresses she wears. I'm sure that Taka sets the price and tells how much they want Katusha to get for it for them.

I also think that to a certain degree, right now, you can wear what you want, as long as it represents who you are on the floor and makes you feel like dancing.
I agree -- now is a good time for people to look at trends, fads, classics, and new ideas and make something that is truly their own.

[Merrylegs]

I would venture a guess that women who are buying dresses for $5k aren't worried about losing money on a resale. They can afford to be trendy and not worry about being stuck with anything. (Lucky them!)

[skwiggy]

dressgirl, thank you so much for your insight.

I do feel that they represent a forward movement for standard.

Would you elaborate on this?

[dressgirl]

Well, you have to look at the history of standard. Pretty much everyone has looked exactly alike for a long time. It started with short crinoline and net skirts and worked its way in to soooooo many petticoats that the boys danced with skirts and not girls. There were feathers and pleats with feathers .......boas and huge shoulder pads. Enormous floats from those shoulder pads. There were florets of pleats on top of pleats and ruffles in the godets. There were 2 circles and 3 circles and 4 huge circles to the skirts. And then, we started to decrease the skirt. And we decreased it so much, that it took the volume out .........and in some ways, good, other ways maybe way too simple for the movement.

But the ruffles give the volume and they speak to the fact that "real" fashion is showing ruffles and flounces. Plus they are feminine. And in standard, the woman should be feminine. Not to mention, that what makes a dancer feel like dancing is what they should wear, as I said before.

[skwiggy]

Interesting. So you see these ruffles and flounces as somehow different or more individual than the feathers, pleats, boas, huge circle skirts, etc that defined the standard fashion historically?

[mamboqueen]

Dressgirl - what are the current "in" colors?

[dressgirl]

the ruffles are reflective of couture fashion. The pleats, circles etc etc......were a contrived costuming thing (sd......need you to stick some wise cultural costuming comment in here). So yes, they are different. And if you look at the final from BP, there were feathers, pleats, silk, ruffles.......some contrived and some not. Not that contrived is bad, its just contrived.

There are no in colors.....its what looks good on you. I do like blue zircon better than I used to though. Candy pink has been around for a billion years, it can look brand new when done right on the right person.

And please guys, I will go back into lurking mode...:)....I am just giving my opinions. I try to listen more than I speak.......

[star_gazer]

I think I got used to the ruffles because abby didn't wear the ruffle dress all summer and it just looked like something was missing (even though I love the others). So I'm hoping she wears the ruffle dress this weekend cause I really like its fullness and how it moves.

[Joe]

I'd like to know how long the organza ruffle trend will last too, because I can't wait for them to go away.

You want volume? Go back to those old crinoline tutu-style skirts. :P

[Merrylegs]

You want volume? Go back to those old crinoline tutu-style skirts. :P

I can't believe it took this long for someone to mention them.

[Laura]

You want volume? Go back to those old crinoline tutu-style skirts. :P
I want to do one out of layers of tulle.

[DancingJools]

I've been away from the boards since I got back from Miami (work is crazy), and wanted to mention one thing, more about makeup than fashion. If no one has mentioned it before, heavy makeup is OUT. I watched the pros closely and even strong lipstick seems to be out. Lots of nude-colored lipstick, in Latin and Standard (see Katusha's and Yulia's close-ups, if you can). Some ams still wear red/orange lipstick, and suddenly it is looking so last-season. Eye makeup also is toned down.
And Laura, if you are serious, let me tell you, that tulle layered dress that Katusha wore looked really nice. It was the softer kind of tulle, not the heirloom quality soft, and not the wedding keepsake stiff. Just right.

[Yanou]

.... heavy makeup is OUT. .... (see Katusha's and Yulia's close-ups, if you can)..... .

I noticed that while watching Yulia in the Balckpool 2008 DVD. I didn't know that it was a general trend, though.

[hustleNflow]

I've been away from the boards since I got back from Miami (work is crazy), and wanted to mention one thing, more about makeup than fashion. If no one has mentioned it before, heavy makeup is OUT. I watched the pros closely and even strong lipstick seems to be out. Lots of nude-colored lipstick, in Latin and Standard (see Katusha's and Yulia's close-ups, if you can). Some ams still wear red/orange lipstick, and suddenly it is looking so last-season. Eye makeup also is toned down.


Oh definitely, Jools! I mentioned earlier that I noticed that the rhythm pros (especially Joanna, Carolina, Danielle, & Inna) are wearing a lot less. Not so much heavy liner, lighter eyeshadow, lighter lipstick, and less blush. Some of them seem to have even stopped wearing false lashes. Hair has become less severe as well...less of the tightly pulled back, shellacked-down look, and more of the half pulled back, rest left down look. More organic. I love it :cool:

[Katarzyna]

and I remembered making statement like that maybe year and a half ago and everyone jumped on me...

[hustleNflow]

and I remembered making statement like that maybe year and a half ago and everyone jumped on me...

Oh no, I totally agree with you! I hope this trend sticks around :D

[Ithink]

Me too! I started that trend, hmmm... well I've always had it;)

[danceronice]

If I didn't wear false lashes, you wouldn't be able to see my eyes...or even that I have eyes! I could do without blush, though. When I have eye shadow and lip color, blush always seems like it's just too much. The bronzer seems to do a good enough job creating cheekbones without help.

I hope the trend for hair goes away. I can't wear my hair loose without it looking like crap. Even my ponytail ends up ragged. (No, cutting isn't an option. I'm prone to looking like I have chubby cheeks enough without short hair making it worse.) Though possibly if I put a TON of product in it, then had curlers in for several hours, I could do a curly half-down look...

[Katarzyna]

last time I wore fake lashes was probably 2 years ago

[Standarddancer]

you can say that about any dress from that designer due to high original price

that's true. but still a 5k classy timeless dress easier to sell than a 5k supper unique trendy dress.

[Standarddancer]

I'd like to know how long the organza ruffle trend will last too, because I can't wait for them to go away.



organza is also fragile and very easy to tear. One of my pro lady friends told me that her sponsored organza dress teared and she stepped on it during QS at US open, the organza fabric stuck in her heels and she had to stop dancing and walk off the floor to get the damn fabric off her heels:(

[Standarddancer]

the only organza dress I really like is this, quite classy not too busy

791

[hereKittyKitty]

If I didn't wear false lashes, you wouldn't be able to see my eyes...or even that I have eyes! I could do without blush, though. When I have eye shadow and lip color, blush always seems like it's just too much. The bronzer seems to do a good enough job creating cheekbones without help.
..

Same here. I don't do false eyelashes but with my light hair (and very short hair) if I don't do dark eye makeup as well as lipstick then you cant see my face.This is something I learned early on in competing. I looked a some competition pictures and it looked like I didn't have lips because I used a neutral lip color:???:
Plus I like putting on makeup;)

[Standarddancer]

if I don't do dark eye makeup as well as lipstick then you cant see my face.This is something I learned early on in competing. I looked a some competition pictures and it looked like I didn't have lips because I used a neutral lip color:???:
Plus I like putting on makeup;)

me too;) I look really dreadfully in neutral lip color or neutral eye makeup:(

[Standarddancer]

I envy those of you have long lashes and don't need to use false eyelashes. If I don't use false lash, you wont even see I have eyelash:(

[skwiggy]

I hate putting the false eyelashes on, but it is SO MUCH EASIER to take them off than to take mascara off. This is my main reason for wearing them, so after the comp when I'm exhausted I don't end up with a mess of mascara all over the place when trying to take my makeup off.

[Standarddancer]

ditto here, hate mascara, so hard to clean out. fake lashes much easier and neater. btw, thanks skwiggy for the wonderful site for false lashes, those works great.

[skwiggy]

my pleasure!

[Larinda McRaven]

The organaza dress I wore a few months ago made me very nervous, I think they are too delicate for smooth. I have worn ruffles a few times to and they were fun.

My favorite variation on the theme for the moment is this. The seperate layers give the same whimsical feel as the ruffles but without the over-blown look.

http://www.ballroom.to/picts/ca.jpg

The woman who purcahsed the dress after I wore it removed the top two layers and kept the bottom two. She is a petite asian and felt that 4 layers overwhelmed her.

[skwiggy]

Gorgeous. Of course, Larinda, you could make a paper bag look elegant. :)

[Larinda McRaven]

Well it is a great dress to begin with. It was nice because even with 4 layers they were so thin and light and with just a bit of fullness they swung around so nicely...

[2totango]

Oh, what a lovely dress!

Swiggy, I was wondering if you could give us all the site for the false eyelashes? I have long eyelashes, but really would love to give my eyes some "pop" when I compete again.

[Stagekat]

Absolutely stunning Larinda!!!

[hustleNflow]

The organaza dress I wore a few months ago made me very nervous, I think they are too delicate for smooth. I have worn ruffles a few times to and they were fun.

My favorite variation on the theme for the moment is this. The seperate layers give the same whimsical feel as the ruffles but without the over-blown look.


The woman who purcahsed the dress after I wore it removed the top two layers and kept the bottom two. She is a petite asian and felt that 4 layers overwhelmed her.

Pretty dress, but YIKES! It looks so delicate...I'd be afraid if I tugged really hard to put it on, I might rip it :?

Speaking of using a light hand with makeup, I've always liked how Larinda does hers...it's effective, without being heavy-handed. It seems like so many blondes (*cough*Kristina Rihanoff*cough*) use a TON of makeup to compensate for having light eyebrows and lashes. Yes, if you don't put something on blonde brows and lashes, they disappear; but Larinda makes hers stand out without going overboard. Same goes for other haircolors - you can get maximum impact with minimal makeup. You don't need 6 different shades of brown/black/grey/white eyeshadow to make your eyes pop :cool:

[skwiggy]

Swiggy, I was wondering if you could give us all the site for the false eyelashes? I have long eyelashes, but really would love to give my eyes some "pop" when I compete again.

Sure thing. It's sallybeauty.com. I actually buy them at the store in person since there is one not too far from my house. I have a membership that costs $5/year and gives me some percentage off of everything in the store. Not sure if you can do that online or not.

I buy the Ardell Fashion Lashes, and if memory serves, type #117.

[samina]

The organaza dress I wore a few months ago made me very nervous, I think they are too delicate for smooth. I have worn ruffles a few times to and they were fun.

My favorite variation on the theme for the moment is this. The seperate layers give the same whimsical feel as the ruffles but without the over-blown look.

http://www.ballroom.to/picts/ca.jpg

The woman who purcahsed the dress after I wore it removed the top two layers and kept the bottom two. She is a petite asian and felt that 4 layers overwhelmed her.

i can't see... :(

[2totango]

Perfect! Thanks, skwiggy. I love my sallybeauty card....and here's the perfect opportunity to go and use it!

[skwiggy]

i can't see... :(

It's her avatar pic larger.

Strange - sometimes I can see the inline pics no problem, and sometimes I can't. No rhyme or reason I can come up with.

[wooh]

Been wanting to see a close-up pic of Larinda's new avatar, glad I finally did! Absolutely gorgeous dress, lovely pose, and as skwiggy said, Larinda can make a paper bag look elegant, so the dress is even prettier!
Also agree that I love Larinda's makeup. I always think it's funny when I read the comp makeup threads and everyone is trying this and that expensive makeup, and every once in a while, Larinda, with IMO the most gorgeous makeup, comes in and mentions she uses an inexpensive drug store brand. Of course, maybe it's another part of Larinda's ability to make a paper bag look elegant, she makes the makeup look elegant instead of needing elegant makeup to make her beautiful.

[Larinda McRaven]

comes in and mentions she uses an inexpensive drug store brand.

I am drug-store cheap all the way.

[Larinda McRaven]

wait a minute, that didn't sound so good....

[Larinda McRaven]

I don't spend a lot on make-up or fancy brands. That sounds better.

[mamboqueen]

lol! love the dress...couldn't really see it in the avatar.

[samina]

It's her avatar pic larger.

Strange - sometimes I can see the inline pics no problem, and sometimes I can't. No rhyme or reason I can come up with.

aw dang... i wanna see! was looking for it earlier in her photos section, and alas it was not there!

[samina]

I am drug-store cheap all the way.

:cool::cool::cool:

[wooh]

I am drug-store cheap all the way.

Bwahahaha!

[and123]

Wet-n-Wild, baby! :rocker:
(wait, that didn't sound very good either....:shock:)

[Larinda McRaven]

Well, actually when it comes to lipstick I guess I am finicky, Lipsense only... but other than that wet-n-wild is great.

[Laura]

I like L'Oreal when it comes to drugstore brands. HIP is great eyeshadow, True Match is great foundation/powder/blush.

[hustleNflow]

Wet-n-Wild, baby! :rocker:
(wait, that didn't sound very good either....:shock:)

The only lipliner I use is Wet N Wild #666. The devil's lipliner? :evil:

[Joe]

Now, see, Larinda's dress is layered, but not hugely ruffled, and because of that it looks nice. The "ruffling" is really just the edging, which is very narrow. It's those skirts with the wide ruffling that makes them look like cakes.

[Meagan]

Since the thread sort of segued to makeup...does anyone have a highlighter shadow (you know what I mean the white-ish, or pinkish, or iridescent kind) that they really love?

I've tried so many different kinds and never found one that really looks right and I'm tired of spending money on it!

[Laura]

The problem with making a recommendation is that we have no idea what your skin tone is and also no idea as to skin type.

I have some Lancome stuff in a color called "Bermuda Sunset" that comes in a tube. It's a creme. I love it. But it might not work for you at all. Heck, I don't even know if it's still on the market, I have a lot of "vintage" makeup at this point :)

As a general rule, I really like MAC eyeshadows. They'll let you try things, too, so you could go down to their counter in a department store and try shades until you find one you like. That way you don't have to waste money on getting shades that don't work for you.

[hustleNflow]

Since the thread sort of segued to makeup...does anyone have a highlighter shadow (you know what I mean the white-ish, or pinkish, or iridescent kind) that they really love?

I've tried so many different kinds and never found one that really looks right and I'm tired of spending money on it!

I use a pencil specifically for highlighting...it's by Anastasia Beverly Hills and I love it. I use the matte, Buff shade for everyday use, and the shimmery Camille shade for comps. Not the cheapest, but blends really well and stays put all day :notworth:

[Standarddancer]

love Larinda's picture, beautiful dress and dance pose. Love pink dress!!!!

[Standarddancer]

Since the thread sort of segued to makeup...does anyone have a highlighter shadow (you know what I mean the white-ish, or pinkish, or iridescent kind) that they really love?

I've tried so many different kinds and never found one that really looks right and I'm tired of spending money on it!

for comp or for everyday wear? I only know Clinique makes a highlighter that you can use as either shadow or shadow base, comes in pink, nude, light purple, etc. quite nice color, however just great for everyday wear, for comp it's not effective or dramatic enough IMHO.

[Meagan]

Yep I meant for comps...I've tried stuff on before but it doesn't look the same on my non-Latined skin color and I don't want to hit the streets in my comp foundation and scare the locals :p So I figured some comp tested suggestions would be good!

[Standarddancer]

I like L'oreal true match foundation, lipstick and HIP eyeshadow. I also buy expensive department and sephora brands, I have really cheap makeup brands and expensive ones.lol. I'm a makeup jumkie.

[Standarddancer]

Yep I meant for comps...I've tried stuff on before but it doesn't look the same on my non-Latined skin color and I don't want to hit the streets in my comp foundation and scare the locals :p So I figured some comp tested suggestions would be good!

must be highlighter shadow? Make Up Forever, MAC, Vincent Logo, Ben Nye all have very good colors. I like Make up Forever Star powder or Diamond shadow, nice shimmering with iridescent, but not like a highlighter, it's powdering eyeshadow & loose eye shadow.

[Ithink]

Yep I meant for comps...I've tried stuff on before but it doesn't look the same on my non-Latined skin color and I don't want to hit the streets in my comp foundation and scare the locals :p

But you live in New York!! I once walked down NYC streets at my bachelorette party with a veil on with candy pinned to it that said "s&*k for a buck". Noone even batted an eyelash at that! People hardly looked at me, lol:)

[Laura]

Another option is to bring your dark foundation with you when you shop. The people at MAC are very helpful, which is a big reason why I like their products so much. Sephora is another good place to get help and to try before you buy.

[Kitty]

Yep I meant for comps...

latin or standard?

[Meagan]

Latin :)

[Kitty]

Latin :)

for standard I'd say you can skip the white right now, as long as you clearly define your eyes and cheeckbones. (you can use a light color concealer or MAC "paint pot" for a natural looking highlight under the brow

but for latin i think you still need to use the white

1) Have you tried Beneye loose white shadow at Ricky's? bright color, easy to apply an blend, the downside is they end up everywhere and too messy
2) you can try a white pencil (thick one with glitter), almost any brand. It will stay put and will be very bright. Downside - difficult to blend, but then lately i no longer do blending anyway..

[hustleNflow]

for standard I'd say you can skip the white right now, as long as you clearly define your eyes and cheeckbones. (you can use a light color concealer or MAC "paint pot" for a natural looking highlight under the brow

but for latin i think you still need to use the white

1) Have you tried Beneye loose white shadow at Ricky's? bright color, easy to apply an blend, the downside is they end up everywhere and too messy
2) you can try a white pencil (thick one with glitter), almost any brand. It will stay put and will be very bright. Downside - difficult to blend, but then lately i no longer do blending anyway..

I remember Natalka saying she really liked Revlon White Pearl eyeshadow. Haven't tried it myself, but I like how Natalka does her makeup, so I would say it probably works really well.

[Standarddancer]

1) Have you tried Beneye loose white shadow at Ricky's? bright color, easy to apply an blend, the downside is they end up everywhere and too messy


I think Ben Nye also makes the pressed power version of the shimmering white shadow, I have one. Very easy to blend, and not ending up everywhere. yes loose eyeshadow tends to be end up everywhere.

[latingal]

mmm...guys might I suggest that if you'd like to discuss specific make up recommendations you do that in a make up thread (I think there's an old one floating around for recommendations of eye make up etc.)? Let's try to stick to the subject of trends here....

[Kitty]

well, as others noted, there is certainly a trend for softer makeup and no fake eyelashes in standard..

[hustleNflow]

What about nails? Has anyone noticed any trends there? French manicure vs. color? Latin vs. Standard?

[Laura]

I'm going to start a nail trend for Standard: short and neat, with a touch of polish for shine and finish. I'm tired of putting on fake "claws" to compete -- makes it impossible to pin on TS's number and buckle my shoes. And forget going to the bathroom.

[star_gazer]

I'm going to start a nail trend for Standard: short and neat, with a touch of polish for shine and finish. I'm tired of putting on fake "claws" to compete -- I know a few rebellious amateur girls that are already on board with that.

[Standarddancer]

I agree with Laura, hate long fake "claws". I did long fake French tips once, looks very beautiful but so inconvenient. Before comp, I tried to pin my partner's # more than 3 times but the damn fake claw made it just impossible:( I finally gave up and asked one of his guy friends to do the job:( this long claw also make it so difficult to put on my fake eyelashes, and yes forget about going to bathroom:(

At one comp, I also saw a girl with long fake nails who couldn't put on her court shoes so she had to ask her partner's help to put them on:(

After I finally offload the long claw, I noticed my own nails were so weak and fragile, so easy to crack for a while, so I'm not gonna to do it again. I want healthy nails.

[hustleNflow]

I agree with Laura, hate long fake "claws". I did long fake French tips once, looks very beautiful but so inconvenient. Before comp, I tried to pin my partner's # more than 3 times but the damn fake claw made it just impossible:( I finally gave up and asked one of his guy friends to do the job:( this long claw also make it so difficult to put on my fake eyelashes, and yes forget about going to bathroom:(

At one comp, I also saw a girl with long fake nails who couldn't put on her court shoes so she had to ask her partner's help to put them on:(

I never got the really, really long ones...mine were pretty short compared to some of the ones I've seen the pros wear. And I always got them done at the salon (more sturdy, less likely to go pinging off and hitting a judge in the face)...usually french white tip, sometimes, to save $$, dark red. But I've noticed that more of the pros (Joanna again, and Julia) aren't even getting the tips...they're just getting a coat of red polish on their real nails. Again, another move in the direction of a more natural look.

[Standarddancer]

But I've noticed that more of the pros (Joanna again, and Julia) aren't even getting the tips...they're just getting a coat of red polish on their real nails. Again, another move in the direction of a more natural look.

yap love this natural nail look trend. I've found nice red coat from drug store cost like $1.99, I painted them on by myself, still look nice and so much more comfortable and save me so much $$$ not visiting salon.

also another reason I hate wearing long fake nails are they really get in my way for typing on Blackberry. If I want to browse internet in hotel room or DF, it's just so difficult to type with long "claw":(

[Laura]

I agree--I use fake nails, and don't get the super long ones, but it's still difficult to type with them at the comp. And I need to type so I can post "diaries" and results for you all :)

I have been following a nail maintenance program designed to make my nails strong, smooth, shiny, and healthy. I've been doing it for two weeks -- buffing, filing, massaging, and using cuticle cream every night. It's too soon to see real results, but my plan is to keep this up while the messed-up parts of my nails grow out, and switch to doing a nice polish on my natural nails -- cut short and filed neatly.

[hereKittyKitty]

I agree--I use fake nails, and don't get the super long ones, but it's still difficult to type with them at the comp. And I need to type so I can post "diaries" and results for you all :)

I have been following a nail maintenance program designed to make my nails strong, smooth, shiny, and healthy. I've been doing it for two weeks -- buffing, filing, massaging, and using cuticle cream every night. It's too soon to see real results, but my plan is to keep this up while the messed-up parts of my nails grow out, and switch to doing a nice polish on my natural nails -- cut short and filed neatly.

I had my acrylics removed 5 months ago. Even though I miss the "look" of the acrylics, I certainly don't miss the upkeep. Every now and then I contemplate going back to them. We'll see. For now I just enjoy my healthier nails.
Nutra Nail along with Maybelline's express polish were my best friends in growing out "the damage". Nutra Nail helped restore the health and Maybelline's express polish disguised the damage.

[skwiggy]

I know a few rebellious amateur girls that are already on board with that.

I've been on board for years. ;)

[skwiggy]

well, as others noted, there is certainly a trend for softer makeup and no fake eyelashes in standard..

At least for now I plan to stick with the fake eyelashes for reasons mentioned earlier. I'm looking forward to the softer makeup, but I'll need to experiment. I don't usually wear any makeup in every day life, so I don't really know how to do anything in between the heavy comp makeup and nothing. I'll have to work on that. :cool:

[star_gazer]

I have been following a nail maintenance program designed to make my nails strong, smooth, shiny, and healthy. I've been doing it for two weeks -- buffing, filing, massaging, and using cuticle cream every night. It's too soon to see real results, but my plan is to keep this up while the messed-up parts of my nails grow out, and switch to doing a nice polish on my natural nails -- cut short and filed neatly. Take daily fish oil or omega supplements. Your hair and nails will grow faster and stronger.

[Yanou]

Take daily fish oil or omega supplements. Your hair and nails will grow faster and stronger.

Oh, I need try them. Last time I tried to go back to my own nails (after having had fake ones for a few months), my nails were so thin and weak. They didn't look good and healthy even after 4+ mohnths, so now I'm back to fake ones.... :eyebrow:

[Larinda McRaven]

I also like the "hair down" trend. I am going "hair down" tonight for the scholarship...

But I also really like the new trend of the pointy bun at the top of the crown and the myriad of sections and curls on top. It is nice to finally ditch the low bun. They always get so messy at the nape of your neck as they catch in your costume, shorten the neck line (I have a long neck so it never shortened mine but on other ladies without the advantage of a long neck line it was disasterous) AND we have been seeing them for ten years non-stop now.

Hair used to be such an assembly line (anyone remember the "hair goddess"). Finally it is changing and we are seeing different looks, styles, and options. Thank goodness!

[Laura]

I like the low bun, I feel like a freak if it's too high. I think it's because my head is round like Charlie Brown's. Although I have raised it up so it's not at the nape any more -- I just don't think I could put it on the top of my head.

[gracie]

Take daily fish oil or omega supplements. Your hair and nails will grow faster and stronger.

CLA supplements and extra vitamin B's really helped mine come back after 10 years of acrylics. The nail salon girls were surprised when I went in for just a manicure.

[Standarddancer]

Oh, I need try them. Last time I tried to go back to my own nails (after having had fake ones for a few months), my nails were so thin and weak. They didn't look good and healthy even after 4+ mohnths, so now I'm back to fake ones.... :eyebrow:

because wearing fake nails for a few months make it impossible for your own nails to "breath" and the fake nail glue also cause damage to your natural nails. I know how it feels, last time I had fake nails removed, my own nails so thin and cracked, painful. I won't be back to fake ones:rolleyes:

[Laura]

New avatar Standarddancer? Your dress and hair look great in it.

[Standarddancer]

CLA supplements and extra vitamin B's really helped mine come back after 10 years of acrylics. The nail salon girls were surprised when I went in for just a manicure.

nail salon girls always trying to talk me into doing fake French nails again. I just turned them down every single time. Of course nail salon owner or girls want all their customers do that, it's more revenue for them. I've saved so much money not doing them anymore. Need to save $$$ for lessons.

[Standarddancer]

New avatar Standarddancer? Your dress and hair look great in it.

thanks, laura:) yap this dress is my new baby!!!

[Standarddancer]

I don't really care about the "hair down" look. However I love both low bun and French twist. Larinda is so right about the low bun sometimes get caught with necklace or costumes, so I use French twist as much as possible if the dress comes with a necklace. I accept the look of a high bun, but not so crazy about it, although I saw some pro ladies at US open with nice high buns, look quite lovely.

[gracie]

thanks, laura:) yap this dress is my new baby!!!

Beautiful!:applause:

[Kassia]

It's not helping that on every season of DWtS that
I'd like to see more of that old-time Hollywood glamor/Ginger Rogers type look come back.

these things.

Just came upon this clip today... Was actually looking for the movie the music was from but then i remembered this forum.. I know somebody had mentioned Ginger and thought i'd post the link...
She did have class and style!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vlvp8PUnC2Y

[Joe]

anyone remember the "hair goddess"
Melissa K. Phoenix (sp?)

[Larinda McRaven]

yup.

[Kassia]

Melissa K. Phoenix (sp?)

Ummm no, i don't... I must be "new" ...

[Larinda McRaven]

Melissa "retired" from competition hair about 5 years ago.

[Kassia]

Melissa "retired" from competition hair about 5 years ago.

Any pics?

[Laura]

She used to do Toni Redpath's hair, so if you can find some pix of Toni from 5 years ago you'll see some really wonderful hairstyles.

[Joe]

It's a bit hazy now due to the mists of time, but IIRC a former partner and I took a Continental flight somewhere and somehow the topic of ballroom came up with the ticket agent, and it turned out he was Melissa's husband or brother or something like that. :)

[Standarddancer]

The world is small;)