Southern UK Jive

[Jiveonaut]

Having been threatened recently with slow and painful death by a fellow forumite if I ever wore shorts while dancing, I thought I'd ask the wider world: is it acceptable for men to wear shorts when dancing? Especially when its hot? If not why not, and what about with socks? While its not an image too far away from knotted hankies and kissme quick hats, why should the British male not wear what could almost be described as his national summer dress? In this equal age, since the ladies can get their knees out, why not us chaps?
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Words are good, but hens lay eggs.

[Southern Jiver]

Good thread, Jiveonaut. Having just worn shorts to a Freestyle for the first time ever, (see this thread ), I loved the cooler feel to them. As I said, I always thought it looked pretty naff to see men wearing shorts and dance shoes but, when the conditions demand it, I see nothing wrong with wearing shorts. I also wore black socks, but rolled down until they couldn't really be seen above the shoe, I don't have any trainer socks which would have been ideal. I didn't like the idea of not wearing socks at all. Black socks, black shoes, I can't see wearing white socks would be better. Probably I also looked a bit naff but then again, the extra cooling and feel wearing shorts made a very hot night's dancing bearable and possibly reduced my sweat production to some degree. If a lady can wear very brief skirts and dresses, I see no reason why a man can't wear shorts if he feels like it. If there are ladies who find it unacceptable, then perhaps they would be better judging a man by how he dances rather than how he looks.
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"We're fools whether we dance or not, so we might as well dance."
~Japanese Proverb

[Nicky]

Excellent thread Jiveonaut

My immediate reaction was to say yes, unless there is a specified dress code for something special like a Ball for instance, wear whatever the hell you feel like wearing. However, I then gave the matter a little more thought and decided against the 'whatever the hell you want' bit..... You see, I have a serious aversion to dancing with men wearing sleeveless vest tops..... But hey, who am I to dictate the style of top guys should wear? Go for it men!!!

Just a suggestion...Wearing shorts doesn't mean that all sense of style should fly out of the window. For example: I would advise steering well clear of the nylon, short, sports shorts like the guys in the 118 advert wear... Not a good look, and a highly increased chance of static interference occurring May I suggest the longer, smart cotton shorts, with trainer socks, if socks are preferred

[Mops]

As the accused forumite I suppose I should respond to that Jiveonaut!

I would like to point out that we were discussing a certain individual and you agreed with me!

People should wear what they feel comfortable in (goodness knows I've got a couple of crazy/questionable outfits), but as Nicky says - there's no need for style to go completely out of the window - I seem to remember we were talking about someone in bright blue shorts, matching socks pulled up to mid calf, and pointy leather shoes it's just not a good look - but he was happy enough and it didn't affect our dances!

Jiveonaut - I threaten you with slow painful deaths frequently I assure you this one was no different to t'others
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Dance with you heart, and your feet will follow.

[Jiveonaut]

[Mops]

Apologies jiveonaut - from now on i shall cover up all flesh :p
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Dance with you heart, and your feet will follow.

[Jiveonaut]

Apology such a rare thing so readily accepted!!

You mean you've got more than a couple? Fruits de mer!!!!

I must admit I'm looking forward to seeing you in more expansive outfits. Remember though that less is more.......
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Words are good, but hens lay eggs.

[Jiveonaut]

For those wishing to see a dance rarity, I'm going to Jive Riot's Hawaiian night tonight.....in shorts......
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Words are good, but hens lay eggs.

[Southern Jiver]

[shakira]

Absolutely nothing wrong in wearing shorts guys, you should wear what you want. Us ladies do
Saying that though, vest tops should be a definate no no. I don't mean it in the fashion sense but, comming off the dance floor covered in someone elses sweat is really not nice