News – Dancewear Collections & Updates

Juvenile female dresses may be made of different fabrics as long as they are in the same colour. Transparent (see-through) fabrics are allowed, but they must be lined with non-transparent material in the same shade. Sleeves may be transparent, and draping or pleating is permitted.

• Necklines: Only specific cuts are allowed; deep cuts or open designs are not permitted.
• Sleeves: Must be present, may be short or long, transparent is allowed. Sleeveless designs are not permitted.
• Skirts: Must be plain or pleated, with a minimum of 1 and maximum of 4 half circles (up to 2 full circles). One simple underskirt is allowed, but layered or stiff underskirts are not. Decorative frills, fishing line, or boning are not allowed. The skirt length must not be more than 10 cm above the knee and not longer than just below the kneecap.
• Details: Buttons matching the fabric or colour are allowed if functional, not as decoration. A small back opening up to 15 cm long and 5 cm wide is permitted if used for fastening.
  

These rules ensure that juvenile dresses look elegant yet modest, without excessive decoration or designs that may distract from the dancing.

For Junior I dancers, the rules are slightly expanded but still modest. Dresses must maintain the traditional ballroom look, avoiding overly revealing cuts or heavy decorations.

• Necklines: Limited to modest cuts only.
• Sleeves: Required, transparent allowed.
• Skirts: Same as Juveniles – plain or pleated, 1 to 4 half circles. No frills or stiff underskirts. Length must remain modest.
• Materials: Shiny fabrics are not permitted in children’s categories, but may be allowed from Junior I with limitations depending on the federation.

At this stage, dancers are allowed more freedom in dress design, approaching adult costume standards. However, modesty and simplicity are still expected.

• Heels may reach up to 5 cm (see WDSF footwear regulations).
• Dresses may include more variation in materials and decorative elements.
• Necklines and sleeves are more flexible compared to Juvenile rules, though extreme designs are still not permitted.
• Skirts remain regulated in shape and length but can be styled closer to adult Latin and ballroom dresses.

For boys in Juvenile and Junior categories, the rules are simpler but equally strict:

• Shirts: Plain long-sleeved white shirt or polo neck top. Shiny or patterned fabrics are not allowed. Shirts must be tucked into trousers. Wing collars and rolled sleeves are not permitted.
• Trousers: Black only, no shiny or patterned fabrics. A satin side stripe is allowed.
• Accessories: A satin waistband (cummerbund) is permitted.

This classic and modest look ensures boys present a professional ballroom appearance without unnecessary decoration.