How to dress to dance like crazy?

(Cover: Kaye Popp and Stanley Catron demonstrating Lindy Hop. Photo by Gjon Mili/The LIFE Picture Collection, for Getty Images)

I have to tell you something: I like dancing.

Eh ? Does everyone like this?

Yeah, okay, but I mean, I REALLY like dancing. In the sense that, once I start, I can't stick to a peaceful cruising rhythm and very quickly the power of the music takes me into a frenzied flight and I don't stop. .

But every time it happens, I complain and tell myself the same thing: “damn clothes not suitable at all!”

Whether it was because I had a winter outfit, perfect for strolling, but in which I would die of heat after ten minutes of serious dancing, or because I had clothes that were afraid of stains, trampling, and were not not easy to maintain, the observation was the same, it was really not great.

While it may seem pointless to think about how to dress for dancing when you are, say, a "moderate" dancer, it seemed obvious to me that the "crazy dancer" needed an outfit particularly thoughtful.

How can you not be hot once on the dancefloor while wearing an outfit adapted to each season once outside? Which shoes to choose so as not to be under constant pressure to damage them? And then, how do you do all this without completely sacrificing style?

So I set about the task, and decided to share my thoughts with you.

Tips to keep in mind

Here are small “checklists”, divided by theme.

Constraints that you should have in mind when composing your outfits which, if respected, will prevent you from spending an evening where your clothes are obstacles, and will let you devote yourself to the party and the bodily expression of your love for music.

1. Wear a summer top whatever the season

• Whether it's a t-shirt, a shirt or a shirt, go for light weight and very breathable materials. Don't be afraid of being cold even if it's winter: you just need to adjust according to the season with the appropriate top layers.
• For example, if it is indeed winter, then put on a thick knit over it, and a coat. Mid-season? A trench coat and a light sweater. You get the idea. If you need outerwear, I recommend a long item of clothing like a trench, a mac or a coat. Because, since you will be wearing lightweight pants, a little length won't be too much to cover your legs from the rain and wind on the way home.
  

  Do like this jazz dancer: short sleeves with breathable materials (here a slightly thick cotton rib), that's the bare minimum! (Photo by: PYMCA/Universal Images Group for Getty Images)

• It doesn't matter if the first layer doesn't go too well with the rest. It might seem a little weird to wear a Cuban collar shirt under a sweater, but you're expected to remove it and just keep this one.
• 100% cotton is possible, but don't be afraid of blends with linen or breathable artificial materials .

2. Take light pants

Let's state the obvious: you will sweat. And if you move around a lot in a hot place, you'll be happy not to suffocate in your crotch.

• If you choose jeans, opt for a canvas between 5 and 12 oz. Canvases under 6 oz are considered "featherweight" and are rarely found outside of specialty denim labels, but I recommend anyone have at least one pair of jeans like this just to experience that lightness. If you can read English, this is a perfect summary of the different weights of denim, which is more or less transposable to the weights of chinos and other cotton pants.

• Absolutely avoid raw indigo denim, even light ones: it would be a shame to have to rub a stain only to end up leaving a big trace of fading. It's now or never to bring out light blue, gray or bleach jeans, which can be washed in the washing machine without blinking.
• If you opt for chinos, don't forget that there are weights that are more summery than others here too. However, the weight of chino fabrics is not as frequently indicated as those of jeans, with the famous American ounces (o z ), for which it is a bit of a tradition. You will therefore have to rely on the feel of the fabric above all. As an indication, summer chinos are also around 6 to 8 oz.
• For those who like a dressier style, do not underestimate so-called "fresh" wools: without going into the details of this definition, they are lighter weights with a drier and more airy feel (sometimes mixed with other fibers like linen or silk.)

• For ease of maintenance, choose dark wools for these dancing pants. So, whatever the splashes to which it will be subjected, a simple wipe with a damp cloth with a little mild soap will probably allow you to catch up, thus avoiding an unnecessary trip to the dry cleaners.
• Let us point out, just in case, that this type of occasion is certainly the worst time to choose a cut that is too narrow, which makes air circulation more difficult.

Wear good shoes

1. The right leather

• When choosing a shoe, there is no doubt that you will opt for something more or less "casual" (for shoes), such as a moccasin or derby. In which case, only avoid light suede: while it is true that suede's reputation for fragility is too exaggerated (it is even the easiest to maintain), its velvety feel tends to "drink" liquids. And when these liquids are dirty or colored, they can sometimes leave tough marks on your light suedes. More than water itself, to which it resists perfectly, it is the coloring that suede fears.
• Like my friend Jordan, I think that if there is one occasion for which shoes in "bookbinded" leather, completely rectified and waterproof, are justified, it is this one. Go all out, that’s what it’s for.

• As for smooth leather, it is a viable option. Knowing on the other hand that a dancing evening will almost always require you to do a complete maintenance to restore the pair in style the next day.

2. The case of sneakers

It may seem counterintuitive, but sneaker leathers, unlike shoe leathers which are preferably "full grain", are almost always covered with a more or less thick colored film. This is what allows them to obtain matte or shiny results, the wide variety of strong colors that we would not necessarily have on more natural leathers.

The problem is that this film cannot be "restored" with maintenance through the use of creams and polishes. Thus, every little scratch and scratch it takes will be permanent, which is particularly visible on light colors.

These films are also temporarily more fragile when the leather is damp. You will therefore understand that the combo of alcoholic drink and trampling risks damaging them a little.

If there are sneakers, I therefore recommend canvas sneakers, which will also have the advantage of breathing well (or dark suede in a pinch).

3. The right insoles

Finally, comes the question of soles. Rather notched in rubber? With commando insert? Or smooth, without even a skate? And here I would tell you: it's all about your dance style and where you dance.

Are you more of a frenzied stomper, wading through the mud at a rave, or a rock dancer fond of sliding pirouettes? To adapt your choice of sole to slide like a cloud on the track? Or on the contrary to ensure membership to protect you from any accident?

4. Be careful with layering

Layering, usually a great asset for men's wardrobe, both thermally and visually, can quickly turn out to be a real nuisance in this context if you overdo it.

If you're the type to wear a denim jacket under a coat, then worn over a turtleneck sweater, you'll quickly realize that changing room costs may increase too quickly or, in the absence of a changing room , you will have the impression of having left a veritable pile of clothes that you will have to put back on, gesticulating, each time you go out to get some fresh air, only to have to take them off again, right after.

Really annoying, let's be honest. Elements of style no longer have much style when they become a manifest constraint visible to all, since they then oppose a certain naturalness.

And as a big fan of scarves and bandanas, I will take this opportunity to add a passage on them: simply avoid them. Having a hot neck when dancing is quite unpleasant.

Reduce your personal belongings to a minimum

Choose a small, compact card holder over a large wallet. Try not to carry around your smartphone with its charger case which makes it four times heavier and thicker. Don't carry around with the complete set of keys including a large key ring in the shape of a football, the keys to the cellar, the bicycle lock, the mailbox, and your aunt Danielle's house in Normandy .

In short: lighten your pockets!

This is advice that I would give in all circumstances, in fact: I no longer count the pockets of pants or jackets that I have seen completely deformed under the weight of objects that are not really essential, or of a wallet stuffed with loyalty cards never really used.

But in the context of our little dancing epic, it is even more important. For what ?

Because in the absence of a changing room, you will absolutely want to keep the most precious and essential items with you, such as your phone, or your credit card to pay for your tour... And at that moment, you will be very happy that they fit in your pants pockets while not weighing you down during your frenzied steps.

And if it is quite simple to put an item of clothing such as a sweater or a coat, in the corner of a bar or on one of the seats of that trendy rooftop where you are partying, counting on the fact of not make it fly , you will have greater peace of mind if you do not leave valuable objects with it (such as the famous overfilled wallet).

Suggestions and implementation

That's all well and good, but where can you find pieces that will fit these constraints? We are going to list here, somewhat loosely, my suggestions, as well as those of the editor, concerning the pieces which can correspond to the criteria mentioned above, and even small combinations which will work well.

1. Play it like Michael (Nicolò)

I am an immeasurable fan of Michael Jackson, and yet, it had to be my dear colleague Jordan who suggested him to me as a source of inspiration.

Come on, let's say it: I learned to dance by imitating him throughout my adolescence.

So we're going to base ourselves on this fairly "sober" look (for Michael Jackson, let's be clear), and see if we can get some ideas from it. But obviously, to be inspired by him, you will have to show moderation, because I believe that neither you nor I are pop stars of legendary fame.

The top: The layering light shirt with and undershirt

This combination allows for a lot of breathability while giving a little sophistication to the top of the outfit. We will perhaps avoid the black or white shirt with a white tank top, always for reasons of too obvious identification. Let's try it with light blue instead. A little chambray, not too heavy.

The pants: light wool in a dark color

For the pants, I don't have a specific piece to suggest, I suggest light wool pants with a mid-high waist, dark in color, and simple enough to stay in the spirit.

On the other hand, the "floor fire" fell dear to the pop star is interesting to optimize air circulation as much as possible, and then to make visible the little gimmick that I am about to expose to you...

Shoes: white socks with moccasins

Yes, I already know what some of you are thinking. I would like to point out that I too am NOT for this practice, 95% of the time.

But... we must take two things into account: on the one hand, certain influential amateurs such as the editors of Etiquette are currently bringing this practice a little back into fashion . So the somewhat “cheesy” image of this gimmick is currently less present.

And on the other hand, it is known that Michael Jackson had a very practical reason behind this choice of style: in the darkness of the stage, the contrast of the socks made it possible to hypnotize the spectators, glued to the wild movements of his feet which They never lost their eyes, like two luminous wisps moving in the night.

So, I find that in the context of an evening where you have planned to dance, well... it is justified!

Then, the moccasins can be black if you want to reproduce the outfit directly, but a little chocolate-colored suede can follow the same principle, with a little more discretion.

2. The art of technical “ham and butter” (Nicolò)

Why “ham and butter”? Because like this legendary sandwich available in all train stations and airports in France, these pieces are a tribute to a simplicity so pronounced that one could almost describe it as bland, but which has the advantage of making you forget the garment a little to concentrate on something else.

And why “technical”? Because these are two pieces chosen to best cope with trampling, perspiration, heat and splashed drinks.

Notice, therefore, to those who neither want to worry about questions of style, nor feel constrained by their clothes.

Seagale "action merino tee" t-shirt

What's better than this ultra breathable blend to ensure you stay fresh on the dancefloor ?

“WeatherProof” sneakers

Leather sneakers that resist water? It's what you need in case of heavy rain, and it's just as suitable for dancing without worrying!

3. A little vintage feel (Nicolò)

A duo of pieces that will be sure to give you a little air of “old-fashioned” cool. Vintage from when, you ask me? Let's be honest, I don't know, and it's true that we use and abuse this word.

But for sure, you will seem to come from a certain era, from a time "when it was better before", and where the music was more instrumental than electronic.

A funky shirt without being too much

This shirt from Che Collection would be my choice for this outfit: light and very breathable thanks to its viscose fabric, and with a saffron yellow color which will give character to your outfit (and the combo with the shade of blue of the jeans will be just splendid, I guarantee it).

Light blue jeans , comfortable and light

A light weight of 9Oz, a fairly light blue color, not only beautiful, but also more stable than raw indigo, and will wash more easily. A comfortable fit, and a little stretch to top it off...

And bam, you get these Naked & Famous “Weird Guy” cut jeans, “Island Blue stretch Selvedge” model. The perfect jeans for swaying your hips!

4. The case of pogo in metal concerts (Nicolò)

Yes, we are almost in a digression from the initial subject, but I also thought of you dear metal friends, festival-goers and recurring Hellfest participants.

Certainly, I imagine that perhaps not so many of you read BonneGueule. But if you are one of us then, of course! You too have the right to quality recce, to practice the art of pogo in the greatest comfort and in complete safety.

Naked & Famous Black Stretch Jeans , Midweight

Metal concert = black outfit.

It wasn't me who invented it, it was my metal friends who told me. So, despite the legendary reluctance (or let's rather say, the caution in my case) that BonneGueule has with the "non-color" that is black, I comply, and I respect your codes, dear metal friends.

As a result, here are quality jeans, which combine a balance between strength and lightness (12Oz canvas), and a good dose of stretch for great freedom of movement.

“Docs”, but better ( really better )

Here we favor grip on surfaces to avoid falling when a big bearded man jostles you, as well as foolproof resistance to the elements, to beer and just about anything: the big pair of "Docs" . Or more precisely, from Solovair.

Solovair is the brand of the former manufacturer of Dr Martens before their relocation to India.

Completely indestructible, this pair tested and approved by a rocker friend (who puts his material possessions to the test) will last you longer than Docs (whose quality has dramatically declined over the years) for an almost identical aesthetic, and a price not that high.

5. Casual chic with comfort (David)

Polo NN07

As a change from shirts and blouses, I offer a short-sleeved NN07 polo shirt in a cotton/linen material, an airy weave, an open collar, all in a soft, natural color.

Satta Joggers

At the bottom, I visualize pants that are rather dark but not austere, especially not too fitted and with an elasticated waist for comfort.

I found what I was looking for at Satta with these lightweight joggers in a pretty shade of grey/green.

National Standard “ spazzolato ” sneakers

On my feet, I immediately thought of these sneakers that National Standard has been producing for years and whose aesthetic I appreciate, but which I wouldn't necessarily see myself wearing on a daily basis.

However, they seem perfectly suitable for dancing thanks to the shiny bookbinded leather used and the richly nuanced burgundy color.

Unstructured jacket Officine Générale

And if you need a jacket to dress up the outfit a little, you should obviously choose it as light as possible.

You can find them at all prices, but since I have the choice, I set my sights on this jacket without internal structure (no padding, no iron-on, no interlining) in embossed cotton, from Officine General, in navy.

6. The “air-guitar” solo on your knees (Jordan)

Usually, I am more of the moderate dancer that Nicolò describes in the preamble. The music really has to ignite me so that the fire of dance burns my loins. If the music isn't to my taste, I can even get into bad spirits and spend the evening sitting at the bar, sulking at the dance floor and its dancers.

I usually have to be picked up by the scruff of my neck. So, I wiggle just enough to satisfy the person who dragged me there and then, I create a diversion and very quickly I disappear.

But I can't help it: if music doesn't give me anything, then I don't give anything in return.

On the other hand, when the music is good, so I need someone to drag me into the spotlight.

I have a confession to make: that guy playing the guitar solo, knees down and eyes rolled back, is me. I didn't choose it. It is a force greater than me to which I must respond.

If we ever meet at a party, don't wear Stiff Upper Lip by AC/DC , I might risk leaving my skin there.

I therefore suggest an outfit for those who, like me, put on a show during the guitar solo.

French army chinos

First advantage: you will have room to move pants like this. If you want to throw big kicks in the air at the same time as a big cymbal hit.

Second before: the material is solid and cleans well. Which is practical in case of slipping on your knees.

Buzz Rickson's high-top ventilated sneakers

These sneakers are made of Ventile. They are therefore resistant to liquids... Which is not a luxury in these kinds of moments. Especially if you've decided to dance with your pint.

It can also work with your crappiest sneakers that you no longer have pity on.

A white t-shirt of your choice

As said above, it is better that it is light. And then round neck, a little flared. Just what you need to let you breathe when you do big windmills with your head because the trance will be at its peak.

A loose, short-sleeved shirt

For large arm movements when you strike masterful chords you need breadth!

Plus, it will hypnotize the audience.

AtPortuguese Flannel , you will find all kinds of light shirts in natural materials in their summer collection. Make your choice.

Wear this shirt open over the t-shirt which will be tucked into the pants: it will be the most beautiful effect when, according to your frenetic movements, its beautiful material will fly around you.

No need for an accessory or a watch: you don't want to know what time it is.