Lace-up oxford tap shoe
Many studios have a list of recommended attire for each kind of dance class, so ask your teacher or check out their website or class schedule prior to your first class. Below are basic guidelines for what to wear for your first tap and flamenco dance class.
Tap
Comfortable clothing suited for dance is the general rule. Ideally, your teacher should be able to view your knees and ankles.
Low heeled tap shoes are best for beginners. Oxford lace-ups offer great support and are good for men and women.
If you’re not sure if you’re ready to invest in a pair of tap shoes, ask your teacher if you may dance in a pair of street shoes or character shoes with a hard leather sole for the first class or two. Another money saving option is to transform one of your existing leather soled dress shoes into tap shoes. Purchase just the taps at a local dancewear store and have your cobbler install the taps for you.
Here are some Chicago schools that offer tap classes:
Joel Hall Dancers and Center
Gus Giordano Dance School
Old Town School of Music
The Tap Studio
Flamenco
For flamenco, women are likely to dress in the following: a comfortable top, a long full skirt that reaches the ankles, tights and flamenco shoes. For men, comfortable clothing and flamenco boots are desired. If you’re not sure if you’re ready to invest in a pair of flamenco shoes, ask your teacher if you may try the class in character or hard soled leather shoes. Other accessories that may be added to your wardrobe at a later time include a leotard, a shawl, castanets and a shrug or bolero.
Check out these Chicago dance schools that offer flamenco classes:
Flamenco Chicago
Flamenco Arts Center
Northeastern University-Ensemble Espanole
Old Town School of Music