Best Color Gown

[smoothdancingirl]

What is the best gown color for a red head? Blonde? Brunette?

[SDsalsaguy]

Interesting question smoothdancingirl... although I don't really think there is a "the best."

Aside from hair color I'd also say that skin tone would have to play a major factor in any such determination. Beyond such predefined variables, however, are the external, venue related factors.

Bright or dark ballroom? White lights or colored lights as well? If so what do blues and reds (lighting wise4) do to the color of the gown? What color is the floor? Light or dark provides for different contrasts as well as different amounts of reflection from the ambient light sources.

Of course some of these variables tend to stay constant at any given venue so, for instance, I know several people who plan the shade of their costuming based on floor conditions...i.e. have multiple dresses but know that one of them is just too dark for "x" event, etc.

Then, of course, there's also the question of what other competitors have on as well. You might have on a fantastic dress but, if 4 other women in your heat have the same color on, you might be better served in a less "ideal" (for you) color, but that will set you apart from the rest.

Just some thoughts...

[MissAlyssa]

Black hair-hot pink/electic blue
Blonde hair-light blue/red
Brunette-bright coral/burgandy
Red Hair-peach/emerald


In my own opinion.

[pygmalion]

How about black gowns? Or white gowns? (for smooth, I mean) I've seen a few gorgeous ones. But white makes me think about the danger of dancing in the spotlights (see-through gowns :shock: ). And black reminds me of social dance.

Any thoughts?

[redhead]

White gown always makes one stand out of the crowd, but I think it visually adds a size or two. Black gown looks really nice, but only if it has lots and lots of rhinestones on it (otherwise it reminds me a witch dress).
Just my 2 cents

[pygmalion]

Cool. I bought a black gown with royal blue stones for my comp! Yay! :D

I'll post pictures after. :D

[Vince A]

Black hair-hot pink/electic blue
Blonde hair-light blue/red
Brunette-bright coral/burgandy
Red Hair-peach/emerald


In my own opinion.
MissAlyssa,

I've been going to competitions for about 10 years now, and as an artist, this is one thing that has caught my attention.

And no, it's not just the woman in the dress that caught my attention! That's another topic?

I think that you hit it right on the money with your colors! I think that any woman could use this a guide, and go up and down the hue scale according to the intensity of their particular hair color and shade of skin.

Black or white always look great, but I believe that "colors," and vivid ones at that, will catch a judge's eyes quicker and make him look longer.
This is good . . . and this could be bad!

Vivid red and cobalt blues are some winners. Plus some gowns/costumes mix contrasting colors for effect: The Pro that I dance with has a very striking cobalt blue costume lined with lime green . . . think of this in a Waltz skirt??? It really catches the eyes and keeps them there! It's beautiful!

Just my 2(ents worth . . .

[pygmalion]

I generally don't like the dark colors, either. At the last comp I went to, there was a woman doing smooth in a navy blue gown. No visible beading or anything. BORING! Fortunately, she was a beautiful dancer, and that compensated for a lot. She and her partner won everything. (Am-Am comp) Yucky gown color, though.

[Vince A]

I remember seeing one black gown that was aneye-catcher . . .

It was, of course black, but it had black Austrian AB crystals all over it. It stood out . . . was well done, acented just right, but was not over-board!

A very sensuous (Vince-melting, Mmmmm-m-m good) black lady wore it and carried it off like no one else could have!

[pygmalion]

I'll post pix in my gown -- black, with lots of royal and turquoise blue beading all over the collar and bodice, with sprinkles on the full-circle skirt. Really pretty, and looks like it will catch the light beautifully. Plus, I figured, nobody else would be wearing black. We'll see if my strategy works. *shrug* Either way, I'm happy with it. :D

[Vince A]

Yeow . . . you made my blood pressure rise :wink:

Can't wait to see the picture of you in the gown and a picture, or several, of you dancing . . .

[Taita]

Additional 2cents:

Don't forget that the ballroom lights may affect how you will be seen and may be a deciding factor for color/gown selection.

[SDsalsaguy]

Just one of several such variables Taita... which is exactly what I was getting at with my first post in this thread. There are no "set" rules... different things work for different people in different situations...

[Spitfire]

Blonde - Dark or bright color

Brunette - Light color

Red head - Dark or light color

My 2 cents

[pygmalion]

Okay, okay. So I wimped out and returned my black gown (which had a flaw in it, anyway) And I got a red gown instead. Red is one of my power colors. Did anybody mention skin tone? I guess for some, that goes with hair color. But for me, skin tone, not hair color is a big deciding factor in selection of clothes. Certain colors look great against my skin, and others just don't. Red is one of my good colors. Royal blue is another. Oh well. To each his own.

[Vince A]

Jenn,
Ah ha, you were listening???????? Red . . . the picture is now complete.

You will look "smashing" this coming weekend . . .

You were in my thoughts as I went walking at 4:30 . . wondering how you are doing and if you are getting excited about the upcoming performance.

Vince

[pygmalion]

Not excited yet. I'll get excited when I get my hair done Saturday! Oh yeah, and when I buy my fake eyelashes! :lol:

For now, I'm just doing the practice drills and trying to conserve my energy otherwise. Things are going quite well. No matter what happens Sunday, I'm okay with it. :D

[Vince A]

That's kewl . . . and . . . you are ready!

[Vince A]

Our competition could be cancelled . . . it's in San Diego!

[pygmalion]

I'm not sure what to say about that, Vince. I guess I'll just pray that whatever happens, things work out for the best -- competition or no competition, I hope things go well for you. The scary thing about these fires is the poor visibility when driving, even miles away. It's possible there may even be road closures on major highways. It gets really intense. :? :(

[SDsalsaguy]

It's possible there may even be road closures on major highways. It gets really intense. :? :(
It's not just a possibility Jenn, there's only one major freeway in San Diego county that hasn't had at least some closures in the last 24 hours. :shock: :(

[redhead]

RED is the best 8)

[pygmalion]

After attending a comp over the weekend and seeing some truly stunning gowns and costumes, I've come to a realization. Gowns should be as unique as possible. Not necessarily bright, dark, or any particular color. Just something that will stand out on the floor. The two costumes I remember were a coatdress styled gown in white with black print and a white dress which had intricate flower-shaped bead work in pastel colors. There were no other dresses like them on the floor. Both, as you notice, were white, a color that many shy away from.

My conclusion: take the time and effort to get something different from the crowd. I'm actually thinking about making some of my own for future comps, or hiring a dressmaker to do it for me.

[lil glam gal]

What colour would you say was the "IN" colour at latin competitions at the minute ?

[Purr]

It better be red. ;)

[mamboqueen]

Now, see, I'd want to wear something other than what everyone else is wearing...

At Manhattan, there were quite a lot of reds and turquoise-ish. Didn't see many black dresses; probably saw more white.

[lil glam gal]

yeah i've just got a brand new red latin dress which shows up really well on the floor

[SPratt74]

I have a couple of questions regarding colors and if you are beginning competitions. Should you wear something that is a dark color and/or a light color? Does it matter what stage you are in competing when you pick out colors and costumes?

[danceronice]

I would say wear what's right for your skin first and foremost. Then go for something that stands out but not in a bad way. I saw some lovely yellow gowns at Manhattan--I can't wear yellow, but they look great on the floor.

My Smooth dress is going to be a color that I *didn't* actually see there, but which turns out to have been somewhat 'in' at Blackpool (which was yay for me because it meant the dressmaker had a bigger selection of fabrics than she originally thought.) It'll stand out on the floor, as will the design, but it will also look good with my hair and (competition-tanned) skin. There were some great colors I tried on that I saw other people wearing, and they looked wonderful (especially some bright pinks) but they just do not look nice on me.

[SlowDancer]

I would say wear what's right for your skin first and foremost. Then go for something that stands out but not in a bad way. I saw some lovely yellow gowns at Manhattan--I can't wear yellow, but they look great on the floor.

My Smooth dress is going to be a color that I *didn't* actually see there, but which turns out to have been somewhat 'in' at Blackpool (which was yay for me because it meant the dressmaker had a bigger selection of fabrics than she originally thought.) It'll stand out on the floor, as will the design, but it will also look good with my hair and (competition-tanned) skin. There were some great colors I tried on that I saw other people wearing, and they looked wonderful (especially some bright pinks) but they just do not look nice on me.

OK, so what color would that be?:p

[danceronice]

When I get the dress, I'll post pictures. ;)

I'm more excited about seeing how the back looks. I have NEVER thought I should wear backless anythings, and then I kept trying things on with these low-cut plunging backlines and people kept liking them and saying what a good feature it was for me.

[SPratt74]

I would say wear what's right for your skin first and foremost. Then go for something that stands out but not in a bad way. I saw some lovely yellow gowns at Manhattan--I can't wear yellow, but they look great on the floor.

My Smooth dress is going to be a color that I *didn't* actually see there, but which turns out to have been somewhat 'in' at Blackpool (which was yay for me because it meant the dressmaker had a bigger selection of fabrics than she originally thought.) It'll stand out on the floor, as will the design, but it will also look good with my hair and (competition-tanned) skin. There were some great colors I tried on that I saw other people wearing, and they looked wonderful (especially some bright pinks) but they just do not look nice on me.

That's a good idea, but it's hard for me because I have to Mystic Tan when I go to comp. I'm not sure exactly what's going to look great when my skin color will be changing. (I should be like a before an after poster girl for the Mystic Tan company lol. You'll see what a difference it makes when I do it lol. I've done it before but only on a couple of occasions. It's sort of fun really!)

[lil glam gal]

whats mystic tan? x

[DancinAnne]

whats mystic tan? x

spray on tan

[lil glam gal]

can you buy it? x

[Larinda McRaven]

Mystic Tan (http://www.mystictan.com/find/mystic-tan-locations.aspx)

[cantskiforlife]

Just don't practice (and sweat a TON) 2 minutes after you get the treatment.... It all washed off my face and hands.

Oh and make sure to lotion your finger and toe nails.... Otherwise they will look rather icky for a few months.... I learned the hard way.

[Katarzyna]

Oh and make sure to lotion your finger and toe nails.... Otherwise they will look rather icky for a few months.... I learned the hard way.and elbows.. I still get asked if I hurt my elbow at work (that was another tanner but they all like to darken the drier areas)

[mamboqueen]

and elbows.. I still get asked if I hurt my elbow at work (that was another tanner but they all like to darken the drier areas)

and ankle bones...

[lil glam gal]

Mystic Tan (http://www.mystictan.com/find/mystic-tan-locations.aspx)


yes thats it x

[Larinda McRaven]

That is all I really use. And only use Protan when I don;t have access to Mystic Tan.

I have tried over the counter everything and they are almost all a waste of time. The Chrisanne lotion works pretty well in a pinch too, but as for the ease of application and the overall eveness, Mystic Tan is the way to go.

I don't have any problems with my elbows, but I think that is because I exfoliate them anyway, they never get rough and dry to begin with.

[lil glam gal]

where do you get mystic tan from? xxxx

[Larinda McRaven]

Mystic Tan (http://www.mystictan.com/find/mystic-tan-locations.aspx)
store locator page

[cantskiforlife]

Its available at many different locations. Its not a product you can purchase in a store.

[lil glam gal]

thanks for that x

[SPratt74]

can you buy it? x

Yeah you can buy it. Although, the best results for me was to have someone spray the tan on me. But my mom buys a Dove product that she uses and loves. And it looks good. So, I'll check with her about the exact name of it. But whenever I got mine done, I got it a couple of days in advance. That way you can correct whatever needs to be done. The place that I go to will let me do touch ups for free. They also worked out a deal with me if I send someone in for example, then I get something free from them. It's a good place. ;)

[soshedances]

Ran across this thread...wondering if anyone has any new thoughts...looking to have a dress made and have no idea what color to ask for...

Best dress colors for certain hair colors/skin tone/figures? What would you stone them with? I'm a petite, pale, brunette...but if you have ideas for other hair colors and skin tones, feel free to chime in as well...

Thanks! :D

[delamusica]

Can you tell us more about what you look like, and what your preferences are? A pic would really be helpful here . . . you can blur out your face if you want to stay anonymous. But with this topic, posting a pic is really the only way you're going to get good advice you can use.

[soshedances]

:doh: Ooops...changed that post a couple of times before I posted it, left out the important stuff! Edited first post...

[Chris Stratton]

Ran across this thread...wondering if anyone has any new thoughts...looking to have a dress made and have no idea what color to ask for...

I found the pink gowns, like the color of the rose in your avatar, very striking at Blackpool.

Perhaps it would be worth going to a vendor at a competition and trying a bunch of colors on just to get a sense of what works for you, before placing your order.

[tanya_the_dancer]

I second Chris's suggestions to try on different dresses at a comp, to get a sense of what looks good on you. But be prepared, there will be a pressure to buy. Another option is to go to a fabric store with a friend and just put different colored fabrics near your face, and try to figure out which colors are more flattering.

Personally, I am a somewhat pale (without tan on) brunette, too, and I try to go for bright strong colors (except orange, that is not a flattering color for me). Also, maybe it's just me, but I would avoid black if you're doing standard (even if black is your color - it definitely is my color). I think it blends with the man too much.

[soshedances]

There are two dresses in particular I'm thinking about...you can see them if you go go dream4dress dot com and look at pages 113 and 123...I would order them unstoned (and do it myself) and with detachable floats (so I could use them for smooth and standard).

[TAK]

Since you mention you are "pale" I assume you have no intention of tanning?

I am also (naturally) pale and brunette, and in real life I mostly wear dark colors. I'd probably prefer a dress in dark red or rich dark blue, with enough stoning & shininess in the fabrics that they'd stand out. Maybe with trim in a lighter secondary color so they look more unique.

If you are slim, various shades of pink could also look lovely, as Chris suggested.

You know what colors you can usually wear. Pick the one of those that would look the most dazzling on the floor (I would say probably the lightest/brightest one, but I can think of exceptions) and go with it.

If you are willing to tan, that opens up a whole different universe of colors. Especially if you are young, I think it is fun to go as bright as possible while keeping it classy! I recently got a rich neon orange dress and I LOVE the way it looks on the floor alongside all the red and violet and pale turquoise -- it stands out for miles. I also think yellow is a great and underused color. These are colors I would NEVER in a zillion years wear outside the ballroom with my normal skin tone, but with a nice dark tan they look fine!

[tanya_the_dancer]

There are two dresses in particular I'm thinking about...you can see them if you go go dream4dress dot com and look at pages 113 and 123...I would order them unstoned (and do it myself) and with detachable floats (so I could use them for smooth and standard).

I think the one on 113 would be hard to make with detachable float. Based on my personal experience with detachable floats, I would have the floats permanently attached to optional accessories (i.e. a necklace or cuffs or gloves), and then just use a different set of accessories for smooth. A friend of mine has a dress like that - her float is attached to a necklace and a glove (I think) and she also has another set of gauntlets without attachments and a separate necklace, which she uses for smooth

[tanya_the_dancer]

Since you mention you are "pale" I assume you have no intention of tanning?

I am also (naturally) pale and brunette, and in real life I mostly wear dark colors. I'd probably prefer a dress in dark red or rich dark blue, with enough stoning & shininess in the fabrics that they'd stand out. Maybe with trim in a lighter secondary color so they look more unique.

If you are slim, various shades of pink could also look lovely, as Chris suggested.

You know what colors you can usually wear. Pick the one of those that would look the most dazzling on the floor (I would say probably the lightest/brightest one, but I can think of exceptions) and go with it.

If you are willing to tan, that opens up a whole different universe of colors. Especially if you are young, I think it is fun to go as bright as possible while keeping it classy! I recently got a rich neon orange dress and I LOVE the way it looks on the floor alongside all the red and violet and pale turquoise -- it stands out for miles. I also think yellow is a great and underused color. These are colors I would NEVER in a zillion years wear outside the ballroom with my normal skin tone, but with a nice dark tan they look fine!

I think you need to experiment with this. I tried on a bunch of different colors when I was having my dresses made (and I had all my tan on), and some colors just cancel me out or still do not look good, because my basic skin undertone is still there, it does not disappear because I have the tan.

[fascination]

Ran across this thread...wondering if anyone has any new thoughts...looking to have a dress made and have no idea what color to ask for...

Best dress colors for certain hair colors/skin tone/figures? What would you stone them with? I'm a petite, pale, brunette...but if you have ideas for other hair colors and skin tones, feel free to chime in as well...

Thanks! :D
deep claret red, navy, hunter green, chocolate brown, white, icy ultra pale colors

[and123]

[small hijack] Are all of dream4dress items custom made? Don't see any prices there. [/hijack]

Agree that you need to try different colors on to see what looks best. Waaaay back when I was looking for a prom dress, I had my heart set on a royal blue one. Tried on a pale peach, and it was perfect.

[etp777]

Go open up your closet and take a look ta colors of items that look best on you. You don't have to wait until you can try dresses on at an upcoming comp, or get by dressmaker's house. Obviously it's a bit more critical with the amount of material/color you have in a gown than say a blosue, but colors that look good on you aren't going to change that much

[soshedances]

Personally, I am a somewhat pale (without tan on) brunette, too, and I try to go for bright strong colors (except orange, that is not a flattering color for me). Also, maybe it's just me, but I would avoid black if you're doing standard (even if black is your color - it definitely is my color). I think it blends with the man too much.

Not doing black...partner and I are both short, so we'd disappear.

[soshedances]

[small hijack] Are all of dream4dress items custom made? Don't see any prices there. [/hijack]


I emailed the company and asked what it would cost to make either of those dresses without stones, with detachable floats, in a color other than black...she emailed me back and said $250.

[contracheck]

I would order them unstoned (and do it myself) and with detachable floats (so I could use them for smooth and standard).

Will stoning a dress cost more than the unstoned dress? I recently bought a new stretchy black sheer turtlrneck (which is as good as any custom made sheer shirt) at $10 but it cost me nearly $200 to stone it.

[dlgodud]

Will stoning a dress cost more than the unstoned dress? I recently bought a new stretchy black sheer turtlrneck (which is as good as any custom made sheer shirt) at $10 but it cost me nearly $200 to stone it.

Yes, that's possible. Most of time, simply making a dress does not cost that much(it depends on fabrics, a skills of person who makes a dress, etc., etc.,.....), but stoning is expensive. That's what I heard from a dress maker.

[soshedances]

I'm on a budget, and by the looks of things most of the stoned dresses (resales) are out of my price range and not in my size.

So I was thinking it might be more effective for me to buy a nice dress unstoned, as opposed to buying an inexpensive dress with crappy-looking stones, and stone it myself a few gross at a time, I can always add more later. I would think it would be cheaper this way so I wouldn't have to pay the dressmaker for the stones and the labor.

[Chris Stratton]

I'm on a budget, and by the looks of things most of the stoned dresses are out of my price range and not in my size.

So I was thinking it might be more effective for me to buy a nice dress unstoned, as opposed to buying an inexpensive dress with crappy-looking stones, and stone it myself a few gross at a time.

There are also various ways of stoning a dress that substantially change the cost and time.

Some dresses end up wall-to-wall rhinestones in areas, and obviously that's extreme in time and money.

Others have some kind of pattern to the fabric or a lace applique and use stones to highlight that, perhaps with some sprinkled over the skirts.

Others are basically plain fabric, but use stones to create some kind of design - almost like drawing squiggles with the little tubes of fabric paint, only its a line of rhinestones instead. I'm not sure as I haven't tried it, but this might not use too many stones.

Many of the dresses I've found most appealing are not all that heavily stoned; but they do make wise use of the stones they have, and make good use of various fabric types and contrasting colors.

[soshedances]

Thanks for all the help! Leaning towards red or coral pink...

Also saw a practice dress on Randall's website that I liked, emailed them, and they'll make it in a different color for me. Might do this since I don't know that much about dream4dress...probably safer to use Randall, even if (slightly) more expensive.

[dancingirldancing]

Does anyone else besides me find backless dress uncomfortable ?

My main gripe is that when I sweat, my partner's hand sit directly on bare sweaty skin.

Yuck !

Colourwise my strong favourites are hot pink, yellow and red

[contracheck]

Does anyone else besides me find backless dress uncomfortable ?

My main gripe is that when I sweat, my partner's hand sit directly on bare sweaty skin.

Yuck !


If you have beautiful back, show it to the world by all means by wearing backless dress. IMHO, a beautiful back is a great asset for a female dancer, and I am sure that judges give more favourable marks to dancers who bare their backs. This is why successful dancers - Anna Melinikova, Hanna Karttunen, Karina Sminornoff, Joanna Leun, and many others - dance bareback. In competitions, dancers dance exhausting dances like Cha Cha, Samba, Paso, Jive, often in succession, at breakneck speeds, yet, I've not heard of sweat problem. If you want to do well in competitions, do it in backless dress.

[fascination]

Does anyone else besides me find backless dress uncomfortable ?

My main gripe is that when I sweat, my partner's hand sit directly on bare sweaty skin.

Yuck !

Colourwise my strong favourites are hot pink, yellow and redwhile I would prefer not to sweat all over him, mine is adequately compensated;)

[moondance]

Hi
Just curious im going to have a ballroom gown made and the ladys asked me to get colour ideas ect im clueless on colours:confused:
So any help would be great?

I have brown hair that when it catches any light it shines ginger brown and i have grey/blue eyes if thats any help :D

Thanks

[fascination]

how would you characterize your skin tone?...my first thought would be that coral might be lovely

[fascination]

age and build might also be a factor...ask your friends also...which colors would look best on you

[Ithink]

Fair or olive-skinned? Makes a difference between using warm or cool colors... If you tan a lot, I guess it almost doesn't matter but if you are fair, chances are you won't look as good in yellows, nudes or browns, for example... Or really pale colors, as they all would wash you out. If you have a darker complexion, on the other hand, those would be good colors for you. As someone fair, I try to look for really bright, jewel-tone colors, like zircon (in my avatar), sapphire/bright royal blue, coral or purple... Certain kinds of red would be good as well. I think you just need to think of colors you wear in real life that you think look good on you and go from there. That's what I do.

[moondance]

Thanks for the quick reply my friends are clueless they just said any colour but thats not very helpfull! Im 5-6, im uk size 8 long arms and legs but im slightly pear shaped lol so i have been told:D ,im 18 yrs old and my normal skin tone without fake tan is pale even in the summer gotta love the fake tan!

[etp777]

I always suggest taking a look in your closet too. You can often get a quick idea of what colors look good on you because they're likelyt he colors you've already learned in your life to wear.

[moondance]

This sounds really bad but most of my clothes are either denim, grey, black or brown i sound really boring:-|! see why i need help :D lol

[dlgodud]

I think White is the best color for standard gowns.

[Ithink]

Thanks for the quick reply my friends are clueless they just said any colour but thats not very helpfull! Im 5-6, im uk size 8 long arms and legs but im slightly pear shaped lol so i have told:D ,im 18 yrs old and my normal skin tone without fake tan is pale even in the summer gotta love the fake tan!

Figured you were pale because your eyes are really light but thought I'd confirm... In that case, really do look at jewel tones. Go to a store with lots of clothing (a department store, H&M, etc.) and try on shirts that are really bright purple, green, turquoise, royal blue (but not dark), coral/orange (a cool orange, not warm), fuschia. See what looks best on you and go from there.

And yes, white is a great color for a ballgown although if someone is pale, they'd really have to tan to wear it and then the dress would be white with tanner stains:( Not too practical if you intend to wear the dress for awhile.

[moondance]

Thank you Ithink i will go and test the colours you have listed :p! I had to wear a bridemaids dress once it was white and really floaty i look like a ghost not a good look! But i agree dlgodud one girl at my studio has a amazing white dress she looks like a princess in it "sighs " if only lol

[DancinProf]

If pure white washes you out too much, try cream. I am very fair (though I do tan a little for comps) with dark hair and I have a cream-colored gown for Smooth that gets a lot of compliments. In real life (hee) I prefer true white but with the tan and some makeup, the cream color looks good on the floor. White/cream could be a good choice just because it's perceived as a difficult color to wear.

[fascination]

if one is wide about the hips I am not sure that white is a good way to go...though I do think that particularly young women look very nice in white if they are pale with dark hair or blonde with a tan...still, I think it is important to go and try on dresses at a comp and see what looks good on you

[etp777]

I think it is important to go and try on dresses at a comp and see what looks good on you

That's the best advice you're going to get right there

[Ithink]

As one who is wide about the hips, I agree:) It has to be a well-cut, great fitting white dress to look good on me.

[soshedances]

Definitely try on lots of different colors...if you don't have them in your closet, go out and try them in the store. Take a look at the colors you like, then ramp them up a notch and go for a brighter, more vibrant version.

Just went through the whole dress color-choosing thing myself. I like wearing most shades of red or pink...usually muted in real life...but went for a bright cerise pink dress!

[moondance]

what do you think about gold or silver ballroom dresses are they ok ??

[Katarzyna]

I think they can look stunning on the floor. Gold is my favourite color

[moondance]

Thanks Katarzyna:D

[Katarzyna]

However I have found silver to not always look good. I think it requires something to stand out either a lot of stones, or some cequined fabric here and there... Its easy to make silver look gray on the floor

[Ithink]

A pale person would have to tan a lot to pull off a gold dress, IMO. I would never wear gold, personally. It just doesn't look good with my skin tone and hair color. Blondes look way better in gold than brunettes do, I think. Silver would look better on a brunette.

I also think a gold dress needs to have a LOT of stoning or some contrasting fabric to look good on a beige wood floor.

[Katarzyna]

yes think it all depends on the shade when we talk about gold/silver. I personally think gold looks best on brunettes actually lol but have particular shades of warm gold in mind.

I could see a gold dress on you Ithink, but would have ot be righ gold color not pale

[hereKittyKitty]

A high level coach (who is also a judge) once told me not to get a gold or brown dress because it blends in with the floor. But, I have light hair so that makes since. Maybe for a brunette its different, dunno.
I like silver, especially if its not the super shiny kind. Thats distracting.

[Ithink]

hkk: that's exactly why I wouldn't wear a gold dress. Only I sorta figured that out on my own when I saw someone wear a gold dress, except I totally missed them on the floor and then figured out why...

I saw Alina Bassiuk in a silver dress in Blackpool semis - it looked sooo good on her and she hardly tanned. She looked like a beautiful snow princess:)

[Katarzyna]

think for some strange reason, gold and silver really shows on blackpool floor.. more than other places.. I see many couples in gold and silver gowns for that one comp a year

[Ithink]

I think because it's darker on the floor there so a light color like gold/silver stands out more...

[Katarzyna]

before they made the floor new and light pastels looked great.. now I think they dont stand out so much.. but yes overall the ballroom is really dark now..

[moondance]

so we think overall that i should save the gold or silver dresses idea for a few years untill i dance at blackpool! :cool::D

[Katarzyna]

Hmm those shades really depend on the venue and may not look best everywhere... Maybe go with something birghter or more classic first

[moondance]

good idea just so many colour 2 choose from its so funny because i know exactly what dresses i like and don't and i have drawn idea for the dresses just hav no clue what colours haa o well!:D

[Ithink]

I always have trouble deciding on a color - you're not alone:)

[and123]

Rainbow! :p
No, don't. Saw a Rainbow Brite gown at a collegiate comp (still see it now and then), and it's scary :shock:

[DanceMentor]

I think my favorite would be Clear. :)
(partner going to debut the dress at the BYU Championships)

[Purr]

It better be red. ;)

For me, the answer remains the same.

[moondance]

hmmm and123 rainbow i think i had a dress like that when i was little lol:cool:

DanceMentor :lol: the problem with a clear dress is the judges might get a bit distracted :oops:

but thanks for the ideas they definately made me smile!

[soshedances]

Rainbow! :p
No, don't. Saw a Rainbow Brite gown at a collegiate comp (still see it now and then), and it's scary :shock:

How exactly does one make a rainbow gown??? :shock:

Or a clear one? Saran Wrap?? :shock::shock:

[and123]

hmmm, well, IIRC, it was constructed of this rainbow metallic lycra with inserts of chiffon in the skirt, all different colors. It was noticeable, but not necessarily in a *good* way.

[Standarddancer]

I’m not a big fan of gold, just because I look really dreadful in nude or gold color; silver would look nice if use the silver sequined bodice but other colored skirt; I would think pink or blue would be better for someone who’s pale.

[soshedances]

I think I've seen that dress...yes, definitely stands out :roll:

[hereKittyKitty]

hkk: that's exactly why I wouldn't wear a gold dress. Only I sorta figured that out on my own when I saw someone wear a gold dress, except I totally missed them on the floor and then figured out why...

I saw Alina Bassiuk in a silver dress in Blackpool semis - it looked sooo good on her and she hardly tanned. She looked like a beautiful snow princess:)

I don't mind silver, I just don't like the metallic silver. One of Alina's other dresses was metallic silver, which was horrible. Looks like a gigantic mirror. But I've seen the silver/grayish one she wore a Blackpool this year and I thought that one was nice.

[Ithink]

I know what you mean. One of the pro semi-finalists at Blackpool had this silver dress with giant metallic-looking mirrored appliques and I thought it was hideous. And she kept wearing it all week, for Rising Star and Pro, all rounds.

[fascination]

when it comes to metallic, a dash of it can be nice, I tend to have gold in alot of my gowns because it suits my coloring...but this is not one of those instances where if a little is good, alot is better...nope

[Standarddancer]

I know what you mean. One of the pro semi-finalists at Blackpool had this silver dress with giant metallic-looking mirrored appliques and I thought it was hideous. And she kept wearing it all week, for Rising Star and Pro, all rounds.

Well this achieve the purpose of being eye-catching and distinctive and being remembered, maybe somehow such distinctive dress helped the couple to be standout from crowd and captured judge’s attention;) so dress served purpose in this way which is important for blackpool

[gracie]

Would love to see the silver mirror gown. Has anyone seen it on Dancesportinfo site?

[Standarddancer]

maybe not hard to find, she must be a pro standard RS semi-finalist, there are only 6 semi-finalists so shouldn't be hard to find.

[etp777]

I would think there'd be 12 semi finalists and 6 finalists. ;)

[etp777]

of course, now that I've been a smarta**, have checked pictures (just quickly, not completely, obviously) of 9 out of 12 semifinalists and haven't found dres sin question. :P

[TAK]

I would think there'd be 12 semi finalists and 6 finalists. ;)

Not unless you generally refer to finalists as "semi-finalists"...6 made the semifinal but not the final, hence semi-finalists.

[KimS]

danceplaza.com/index.tpl?style=foto&action=overview&gallery=Rob_Ronda/Blackpool_Dance_Festival_2009/Professional_RS_Ballroom&dirid=3978&blader=2

there are two pictures of a silver dress

[etp777]

I stand corrected. Good point TAK. I should have called it a night before that nightcap. ;)

[Ithink]

It's Anna Longmore's dress. She was also an RS Standard finalist. It was one of those rare time where a dress can totally turn one off of a person's actual dancing:(

[Katarzyna]

I think her gowns are different unique and kind of cool, noticed her gown in RS few years back when she had a rich blue gown with circles etc... but I cannot say i dislike her dresses, I like most of her current ones... cut decoration etc... matter of taste I guess, I like that they have that different edge

[Ithink]

Yes, it's great that people have such varying tastes! Me, I'll take pretty over edgy anyday, personally;) But I guess if anything, her gown was memorable...

[Standarddancer]

It's Anna Longmore's dress. She was also an RS Standard finalist. It was one of those rare time where a dress can totally turn one off of a person's actual dancing:(

Is it Matthew Rooke & Anna Longmore? The dress she wore at’09 RS is a white dress with nude bodice with shiny appliqué (although doesn’t appear to be silver from pics); that’s not a bad dress at all IMHO, at least doesn’t look bad from photo. Am I looking at the correct dress?

[Ithink]

See, this is what I mean: the shiny appliques looked silver to me (and they are!) and turned me off the dress, so much so that I even forgot it was overall white/nude, lol... I also didn't think it was flattering to her at all. To each their own I guess:)

[Katarzyna]

This particular one I LIKE a lot, I was considering buying it

[Standarddancer]

The appliqué looks gold (or black) from picture, the white skirt is beautiful although I’m not particularly interested in the nude bodice, the shiny appliqué doesn’t bother me from the photos at all; just not sure if it’s gonna to be getting in the way for connection – that’s the only concern.

[Katarzyna]

you can see in detain on

junedesigns.net site

I like it on photo there a lot

[Standarddancer]

Wow, you really so seriously like it, even checked out who designed it!!! thanks for the site

[Katarzyna]

No i knew this designer for a while now and knew they sponsor her. But yes I do seriously like it

[Ithink]

It looks better in pictures than it did live. To me it looks more like a show dress than a comp dress.

[star_gazer]

At Blackpool in 2008, Matthew Rooke & Anna Longmore were in the top 23 of Amateur Ballroom. At Blackpool in 2009, they were 3rd in Professional Rising Star and semi-finalists in Pro. Wow...

I'm not crazy about the dress but it doesn't appear as though it blighted the quality of their dancing.

[gracie]

Checked the silver mirror dress out- I like it. Want a silver dress. Have had gold already. I've always thought that an orange dress looks good on a blonde if it's the right shade and not Fluorescent.

[fascination]

interesting b/c I look dreadful in orange...although coral is an exception

[QPO]

I have anew white gown with orange flairs and godots...it looks great on the floor just enough colour I will find a photo

[and123]

Rainbow! :p
No, don't. Saw a Rainbow Brite gown at a collegiate comp (still see it now and then), and it's scary :shock:

Ha! Found it!

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk114/Holleigh-berri/rainbow.jpg

[Katarzyna]

awwww

[etp777]

You better be able to DANCE wearing a dress like that. Because there's no way you're going to be able to hide on the floor.

[hereKittyKitty]

I hope this person isn't reading dance forums:(

[wooh]

I think it's a fun look! :)

[and123]

Not trying to single anyone out -- gown has been worn by multiple people, so maybe it belongs to a team. It definitely has a "Wow, look at that" aura to it. Seems to be a love/hate thing.

[DancinDrea19]

I have both red and pink dresses...I have dark hair and i prefer the pink one...its actually bubblegum pink:cool:

[DancingMommy]

You better be able to DANCE wearing a dress like that. Because there's no way you're going to be able to hide on the floor.

That's very true. But then again, that's true of anything that's a bit non-traditional. ;) And for the record, I think that dress totally rocks. I'd wear it. If I were about a foot taller and a foot thinner.

[wonderwoman]

I'm a big fan of black with sparkly silver or gold trim

[Standarddancer]

The multiple colors on bodice still acceptable, but the blue on skirt really doesn’t match with the rest

[Unju]

White! :)

[hereKittyKitty]

I think the reason I don't like white is because it reminds me of a wedding dress:eyebrow:.
I have seen a few white dresses recently that I would try though, so maybe I'm coming around.

[stealth114]

Just came across this thread..I have always noticed one top Pro dancer, Hanna Kartunnen having such a very dark skin tone and she wore dresses to match and then in recent time when she danced with Victor, she was much lighter with blonde hair and some of her dresses were lighter. Good thing being a guy, its not so difficult as it is for you ladies ;)

[stealth114]

Any dress of any colour will look better than that thing that Carmen wore that made her look like 'big bird' at a competition... Im sure u know which one Im talking bout..

.

[sambanada]

love red!

[jjs914]

love red!

My current dress is red and I've received some compliments about how red looks on the floor.

And in general I've not run into too many people wearing red....except at Vegas...where there were around 5 red smooth dresses on the floor (split between 2 heats)!

[tanya_the_dancer]

My current dress is red and I've received some compliments about how red looks on the floor.

And in general I've not run into too many people wearing red....except at Vegas...where there were around 5 red smooth dresses on the floor (split between 2 heats)!

Red was a very popular color lately. A couple of years ago at Twin Cities Open, half of the dresses in pro smooth were red, and by some weird coincidence, they all ended up in one group. I have a red dress for standard and in some of my events every single dress on the floor was red. I had one of those events videoed, and when I showed it to my parents, they had trouble keeping track of couples (even though the camera followed me). This was the reason why I chose black for my smooth dress last year, because nobody else had a dress that color and that's one of my best colors.

[Griffico]

I'm not sure how things are now, but I believe 5 of 6 of the couples in the blackpool standard final had white on. I like white, but maybe not that much :P

[middy]

Lots of white dresses at the MAC standard final this year too...

[hereKittyKitty]

I do not like white....too pristine;) I much more prefer black or red which are strong colors.

[jiwinco]

My current dress is red and I've received some compliments about how red looks on the floor.

And in general I've not run into too many people wearing red....except at Vegas...where there were around 5 red smooth dresses on the floor (split between 2 heats)!

I was one of those 5 red dresses in Vegas... funny I got a red dress because I hadn't seen any in a while... time for a new dress...

[jjs914]

Lots of white dresses at the MAC standard final this year too...

Also, the open pro smooth final at Ohio this past year was a lot of white/silver/neutral.

Funny how it sort of comes in waves.

[Medira]

Also, the open pro smooth final at Ohio this past year was a lot of white/silver/neutral.

Funny how it sort of comes in waves.

There was also a lot of pale pink at OSB. Heck, there was a lot of white and pale pink during the last half of the year in general.

[dancerdol]

Bringing this thread back up higher since Ohio Star Ball is around the corner and lots of us are buying or thinking of buying new dresses.

Looking at the posts - the "myth of the white dress" is alive and well. In a number of comps in the past year the winner of smooth or standard has been in a white dress. Almost makes you look around the ballroom floor before the music starts to see who is the "top girl" based on dress color. I'm not sure if this phenomenon has happened because white shows up or because a really great dancer is more confident about wearing white? Personally, I have paler skin and dark hair and look best in traditional "winter colors" black & white, red, purple, emerald green, coral and turquoise. I would wash out in solid white and look Gothic Lolita in all black.

[sambanada]

love blue

[hereKittyKitty]

I dislike an all white gown. I've seen very few that I liked. Typically when I'm watching a competition, I'll always overlook the girl in white.
Just now I was looking at a series of photos from CanAm dancesport. My eye automatically went to a picture of Beverly Moore in a stunning black/flower gown. I typically will notice a bright blue gown, hot pink, black, red, yellow.
I think basic orange is underused. I've tried on a neon orange that looked horrific, but I think a nice basic satin chiffon orange would be pretty:D

[hereKittyKitty]

Bringing this thread back up higher since Ohio Star Ball is around the corner and lots of us are buying or thinking of buying new dresses.

Looking at the posts - the "myth of the white dress" is alive and well. In a number of comps in the past year the winner of smooth or standard has been in a white dress. Almost makes you look around the ballroom floor before the music starts to see who is the "top girl" based on dress color. I'm not sure if this phenomenon has happened because white shows up or because a really great dancer is more confident about wearing white? Personally, I have paler skin and dark hair and look best in traditional "winter colors" black & white, red, purple, emerald green, coral and turquoise. I would wash out in solid white and look Gothic Lolita in all black.

I think- if you look good in turquoise, I would go for that over emerald green.

[debmc]

I think color popularity changes, and the color that is least worn, all of a sudden becomes the color that really pops on the floor because no one else is wearing it.

Many of the top pro rhythm ladies from USDC were also wearing white with neutral or white with gold.

As far as individual color choices, that is why we have to have more than one dress! Or at least that is what I tell myself after my purchases...............

[JANATHOME]

LOL, my white gown just came out of the bathtub!!
White, but the bodice is stoned in a blue diamond pattern, so not all white...I have owned this gown for years and still love it... Whew, was pretty nervous washing this gown yet there were only 3 stones on the bottom of the bathtub...

Who can say what the best color is. I think you have to consider your skin tones. What works for one girl will not for the next. For me with dark hair and medium to dark skin tones white work for me..... Yet recently I was watching one of my fav standard pros in a incredible white dress but with her blond hair and very and light skin tones she seemed to disappear on the floor.

[debmc]

I have a new white dress too, and I am scared of washing it! :) It does have alot of gold accents. I think that is the key to wearing white... to have another color with it for contrast.

[fascination]

white is never going to work for me...guess I'm doomed

[mindputtee]

I'm very pale but have been told I look very good in white. I like bright colors too much for a white gown I think. The problem I have is that I change my hair color relatively often. I picked a lime green for making my next gown, which works pretty well with blonde, red, and brown hair, so I should be covered. (I was blonde when I bought the fabric, and am now a redhead.)

[DanceMentor]

I would recommend Clear. :)

[mindputtee]

I would recommend Clear. :)

Lol... that would be very interesting. A la emperors new clothes? :-P

[TallTenDancer]

I've talked about going with a darker green in the past with partners, since it's almost never seen. But she was never able to find one in a good color, much less one that was syllabus-legal. Glad to see we weren't the only ones to consider it, mindputtee!

[mindputtee]

I've talked about going with a darker green in the past with partners, since it's almost never seen. But she was never able to find one in a good color, much less one that was syllabus-legal. Glad to see we weren't the only ones to consider it, mindputtee!

I really like the way emerald green looks, but I've seen pictures at competitions of emerald gowns and they just don't have the same pop on the floor. I'm not a fan of things entirely neon though.

[Standarddancer]

I love white, currently own one white one, with feather all over skirt, feathers on large floats as well, got many compliments, haven't own a white one for a while, certainly enjoy it very much! White and all bright colors all work for me.

[singndance]

I love white too, particularly with AB stones. One of my first gowns was white with navy and gold stone accents, and I loved it. Bright colors are good on me too. I saw a beautiful gown that evoked old Hollywood that was silvery with silver-grey feathers, and it was gorgeous on the girl wearing it, but it's not something I could pull off.

[dbk]

I've always thought the "best" color gown is... the color no one else is wearing! At least then you'll stand out. :D

[fascination]

eh..not neccessarily...lots of colors don't stand out even if they are the only one of their kind on the floor

[gracie]

white is never going to work for me...guess I'm doomed

Me neither. Does seem pretty popular in the Pro-Am scholarship divisions

[gracie]

I would recommend Clear. :)

Oh that's funny. One time on a lesson I had on clear bra straps the Pro noticed. He said innocently (I think) "Is the whole thing clear?" Needless to say, I was taken aback!

[danceronice]

Me neither. Does seem pretty popular in the Pro-Am scholarship divisions

If you can pull it off, it works great. Sadly I could drown in protan and white is still not my color.

I ordered a dress from a maker in Paris (I feel confident now enough to buy "cheap" overseas stuff rather than deal with the high-end makers here in person, as I now have a better idea what is well-made and what works on me) and thanks to an order-former screwup combined with unavailable colors the dress they sent was the wrong colors--black lace top with a "coral" skirt that basically was orange! Perfect for halloween, but...though I considered, for a bit, if I were in events with BIG heats and just needed to be eye-grabbing, it would actually work all right. It's not necessarily a nice color, but like the ever-popular but universally hideous neon green/yellow, it's eye-catching. But I sent it back (as it was their screw-up, they're making another in better colors.)

[NonieS]

Oh that's funny. One time on a lesson I had on clear bra straps the Pro noticed. He said innocently (I think) "Is the whole thing clear?" Needless to say, I was taken aback!

Very funny...

[gracie]

I have a new Peach dress. Pro said "Peach is always a good color" Guess he likes it. According to "Color Me Beautiful", I am a blonde winter and should be wearing bright jewel colors. I won an evaluation with them at a party, otherwise don't know that I would have paid for it.

[JANATHOME]

I also have a salmon/peach gown....
The gown is rather simple but I always get compliments on it. This seems to be a good color on many different skin tones.

But anyway I was a a comp this week-end and I noticed one of the vendors had an entire rack of white gowns... Each with different accent colors, but sure seems like right now white is the color that is selling.... FYI, every one of these gowns was so dreamy!!

[shimkirina]

...It's not necessarily a nice color, but like the ever-popular but universally hideous neon green/yellow, it's eye-catching...

Thank goodness someone else feels the same about that neon green/yellow color!

[shimkirina]

At USDC, the two Ballroom colors that stood out to me were a nature green color that Katusha Demidova wore in the US Nationals and this pretty golden brown color that Alina Basyuk wore. It did have a red underskirt that made it really stand out, otherwise the color might have been too quiet.

[fascination]

I hate that bright apple green but it looks smashing on me...am afraid I am going to have to breakdown and get something in that color again...but, like hot pink, I am not particularly happy about it

[singndance]

I've resigned myself to the fact that I can't choose a dance costume based solely on my personal likes and dislikes. The colors not only have to look great on you, but the dresses have to attract maximum attention and add to the overall "look" you are trying to get across. So, I am laughing about the comments on the bright yellow/green--the dressmaker and my pro's wife talked me into it. I hate that color, but I have to admit it looked good on me and the dress certainly attracted attention. So I made peace with it to be comfortable.

There was a beautiful woman who wore that color at a comp recently, and I realized, wow, you are looking at her in part because of the dancing but in part because you can't help but look at that dress! But I would never, ever, ever even think about wearing that color anywhere else but on the competition floor.

[danceronice]

Carson on DWTS was going through the costume shop and he picked up a gentleman's vest in that yellow/green/whatever color and said "I'd look like a gay traffic cop."

I not only hate it, it does NOT work with my skin tone. At. All.

[tanya_the_dancer]

I decided I like apple green after I had a dress in that color. And same with hot pink. Both colors looked so good on me that I decided I like them afterall.

Somehow colors I like are more or less in sync with colors that look good on me.

[llamasarefuzzy]

I just got a new dress in the bright green apple color. While this certainly isn't a color I'd wear around everyday, I think it will look great on the floor. Especially because of some of the syllabus restrictions on am-am comps, I was limited to design and color to make the dress stand out. I really think that it will do the trick! (Especially in the sea of blues, blacks and reds that seem to be at every collegiate comp ever!)

[mindputtee]

I actually love the apple green, but hate the neon. The dress that I am making is apple green and I can't wait to get started on it in earnest. Midterms are preventing it though!

Also, I've heard that peach/salmon is the most universally flattering color on women. Most think they can't wear it but it actually looks good on most people.

I really like the way white dresses look, but they're becoming so common that they start to blend in on the floor. I feel the same way about red dresses too and refuse to buy one on principle.

[debmc]

Yes, sadly, once a dress color becomes popular, then everyone is wearing it, and it doesn't stand out anymore!

[debmc]

I'm noticing alot of pinks and lavenders out there too.

[RosalieHuisjes]

I always consider my skin is very pale so I don´t want to use a too light color dress like white or cream etc... I always see how ´flat´ my skin gets if I wear a dress

[madmaximus]

IMO
(I think I posted this sometime ago...)

The most important thing about choosing a competition dress color is CONTRAST.

Skin color has less to do with it (because skin color changes under different lights and circumstances---body makeup, neon, fluorescent, incandescent, etc...)

Choose a color that has a strong gray-scale contrast to the general background.

For instance, if the comp uses black tablecloths, and has generally dark surroundings, you will want to use a light color contrast.

Here's an example of how a dark costume disappears into the background, and the higher contrast pulls your eye more:

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmZkWt0MS0E&feature=related) The dance starts at approx 1:00





m

[latingal]

I'm with mm on this one....I always plan around the background of the ballroom....

[GGinrhinestones]

I'm with mm on this one....I always plan around the background of the ballroom....

Which is great, if you have the luxury of multiple dresses and can plan accordingly. Someday. *Sigh*

In the meantime, I do consider background to a point - which is why I avoid black, brown, dark blue, and anything approaching neutral colors that will blend with the floor.

I do have to say, the absolute best (and entirely unplanned) example of the background contrast thing was a showcase I did with dark blue curtains, tan floor, partner in a black tux, and me in a red dress. I avoid red in competition because *everyone* wears red (in latin and rhythm, anyway), but in this case it was a fantastic picture.

[MissKitty]

I dislike an all white gown. I've seen very few that I liked. Typically when I'm watching a competition, I'll always overlook the girl in white.
Just now I was looking at a series of photos from CanAm dancesport. My eye automatically went to a picture of Beverly Moore in a stunning black/flower gown. I typically will notice a bright blue gown, hot pink, black, red, yellow.
I think basic orange is underused. I've tried on a neon orange that looked horrific, but I think a nice basic satin chiffon orange would be pretty:D

The red dress you have for sale is just BEAUTIFUL. If I manage to get skinny enough and save enough money in six months or so, and you havent sold it already I might just buy it from you! I think I am a US size 8 right now, so not small enough to wear it. But its just so gorgeous. Have always wanted a red standard dress!

[3wishes]

Interesting how "we" see colors for ballroom. Years ago I had, at the invitation of my very white skinned-takes after dad- norwegian daughter, my colors done. And white is actually great on me,,,then again,,,I have darker skin tones. Found out Jewel colors work best...others colors...welllllll...not so great, even in combinations with or without stones.

[tanya_the_dancer]

I think the absolute worst background was at a showcase I was in about 6 years ago. They covered studio mirrors with black paper and put some tiny silver stars on it to fit with the theme "dancing under the stars" or something like that. The guys in their black clothing just disappeared against it, especially in the photos.

That said, my latest smooth dress is black with mint accents and stands out just fine, in fact I've gotten a lot of compliments on it, and everyone who had known me for a while said it is my best dress to date.

[NonieS]

I am pale and blonde... bright, saturated colors and jewel tones look best on me. I tend to look washed out on the floor in pastels... sometimes in yellow too. So I generally tend to lean towards the very saturated in my color choices.

[hereKittyKitty]

The red dress you have for sale is just BEAUTIFUL. If I manage to get skinny enough and save enough money in six months or so, and you havent sold it already I might just buy it from you! I think I am a US size 8 right now, so not small enough to wear it. But its just so gorgeous. Have always wanted a red standard dress!

Thanks Kitty! Keep me posted. I have someone who desperately wants it now, but its the only one that fits me at the moment so I'm having to hold onto it a little longer.

As far as colors go- What works for me is never what I think will work. I have seen the most gorgeous bright coral dress-tried it on and looked like a neon monster lol. I put on a black dress with a lot of stones and boom-I get marked(could also be I danced better lol).

With regard to dressing for the background, you may not know what the back round will be, so in the end I think its best to go with what works for you color wise.
Also contrasting colors can be nice and give a lot of pop.

[debmc]

So if you don't know ahead of time what the colors of the ballroom will be... ?

I tried on this amazing latin dress in black and dark blue. I love it, but have never worn a dress that dark for fear it would not stand out. Opinions about black dresses?

[chocobebe]

Personally I don't like black too much, unless either a) it has a crazy stoning pattern that contrasts the black fabric or b) it has a very unique design

I find myself gravitating towards whites (which looks surprisingly good with my azn skintone), reds, pinks, and blues. I tend to shy away from greens, oranges, and blacks (mostly b/c I have black hair, and being black from head to toe isn't quite eye-catching).

[laucy.my]

I now have a rich purple dress that I wear regularly and although people say it's alright, I think it's really too boring. I was hoping to get some really funky combinations for my next dress. Maybe neon lime with bright blue? Or sparkly red and deep green? You know, something along the lines of that.

[fascination]

So if you don't know ahead of time what the colors of the ballroom will be... ?

I tried on this amazing latin dress in black and dark blue. I love it, but have never worn a dress that dark for fear it would not stand out. Opinions about black dresses?
one of the best latin outfit I ever had and wish I had not sold was a black lace outfit with royal blue bodice underneath...it was striking on the floor and I deeply regret no longer having it

[fascination]

I now have a rich purple dress that I wear regularly and although people say it's alright, I think it's really too boring. I was hoping to get some really funky combinations for my next dress. Maybe neon lime with bright blue? Or sparkly red and deep green? You know, something along the lines of that.
and to me, rich purple sounds far better than either or those two combos

[laucy.my]

and to me, rich purple sounds far better than either or those two combos

That made me laugh! Fascination, if you were here I would have given you a big hug! :D

[kckc]

personally I think black is fine for latin, since generally more skin is showing and it isn't so overwhelming, and you do spend at least a bit of your time away from your partner (I'm including rhythm in this rambling thought). Some of the most gorgeous dresses I have seen have been black with vibrant pink or blue or green stoning patterns and/or fabric accents.

[debmc]

Mmmm... I'll have to try on that dress again! I notice that my tastes in dresses seems to change every few months which is fun, but terrible for my budget! It seems like after wearing a dress a few times I grow tired of it, or I see a different style out there that I like. Luckily I am in the process of selling a few!

[latingal]

I wear a lot of black in latin....I just make sure it's rather see through....<grin>

[madmaximus]

. . . Opinions about black dresses?

I wouldn't want my partner in Black unless it was a standard final, and even then... (for Latin, OTOH, if it's like latingal's, who knows?... ;) ).

It's too easy to disappear in a crowd.





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[hereKittyKitty]

Its not the issue of color when it comes to black. The key issue with black is it has to have a lot of decoration, Stoning, Shiny fabric etc.http://chrisanne.us/gowns/sponsor/414EE%20Tanya%20Size%20US6-UK10%20$5027.jpg

[hereKittyKitty]

I actually had a top judge/coach/chairman of judges tell me that it wasn't the color but the decoration of a black dress that made it fade into the background. she also said the worst color was gold/beige because you just blend in with the floor

[scullystwin42]

I'm ready for some glow rods in my smooth dress, like they have in all the kid's halloween costumes this year. That'll show up on the dance floor, darnit. :p

[hereKittyKitty]

I'm ready for some glow rods in my smooth dress, like they have in all the kid's halloween costumes this year. That'll show up on the dance floor, darnit. :p

I actually saw some at Michael's the other day and thought- Not a bad idea!

[AStarDanced27]

I got my first real fake tan for my last comp and it definitely changed my opinion of colors I should wear. My previous (latin/rhythm) dress was an emerald green (see avatar) that really stood out from the rest of the bronze/silver crowd (that and it was pretty short, so it got a lot of male attention - good for finding a TBA partner). With a tan, the dress still looked good, but I found that my previously-worn red dress looked even better. I know red is overdone in Latin, but after seeing pictures from this last comp, I couldn't go back to the green.

But soon I won't have to worry about the red cliche that is my Latin/Rhythm dress: getting a new dress made, hopefully in time for my next comp :)

[llamasarefuzzy]

I got my first real fake tan for my last comp and it definitely changed my opinion of colors I should wear. My previous (latin/rhythm) dress was an emerald green (see avatar) that really stood out from the rest of the bronze/silver crowd (that and it was pretty short, so it got a lot of male attention - good for finding a TBA partner). With a tan, the dress still looked good, but I found that my previously-worn red dress looked even better. I know red is overdone in Latin, but after seeing pictures from this last comp, I couldn't go back to the green.

But soon I won't have to worry about the red cliche that is my Latin/Rhythm dress: getting a new dress made, hopefully in time for my next comp :)

LOL. " A real fake tan":D

[dancing_moogle]

Its not the issue of color when it comes to black. The key issue with black is it has to have a lot of decoration, Stoning, Shiny fabric etc.http://chrisanne.us/gowns/sponsor/414EE%20Tanya%20Size%20US6-UK10%20$5027.jpg

I agree with this. I own a black dress that has aqua/green type of organza and black fabrics, also decorated with aqua, aqua AB and crystal AB stones, and a few beads. It's a simple but elegant dress and I have got a lot of compliments on it.

In addition, I like pastels, aqua or turquoise-type of blue, and reds (esp. fire opal). I try to stay away from white because there's too many of those.