Country Line Dance: more than just dancing

Did you know that country line dancing is popular practically all over the world? Surely its success is due to several factors: it is accessible, fun and social, an exciting way to dance in group and enjoy country music. Of course, country line dancing is also a physical exercise beneficial to physical and mental health, and a golden opportunity to wear a very special outfit: cowboy hat, cowboy boots, cowboy belt, western shirt … and more!

Yes, we know that these garments and accessories can be worn on many other occasions, but the truth is that they are an essential part of the culture and aesthetics of country line dance. Therefore, in Corbeto’s we want to dedicate this article to the importance of the attire in the also called line dancing, and we will review its origin and analyze the secret of its success.

A global phenomenon called country line dance

This dance style originated in the United States, mainly in the western part of the country in the 1950s. It has its roots in the dance traditions of the European settlers who settled in the region and in the influences of country and western music.

Country line dancing is characterized by a line formation of dancers moving in synchrony, following a sequence of choreographed steps and movements. The dancers stand side by side in a line, all facing the same direction and performing the same steps simultaneously.

The origin of country line dancing can be traced back to the traditional dances of cowboys and cowgirls in the western U.S., who line danced during breaks in their herding and rodeo activities. Over time, these dances evolved and merged with other dance styles, such as swing, cha-cha-cha and rock and roll, and became popular in the 1950s and 1960s in the United States.

However, it was in the 1980s when country line dancing reached a boom in popularity thanks to the appearance of modern country music on radio and television, and the broadcasting of country line dance videos. This led to the creation of new choreographies and the formation of communities of country dancers around the world, with events, competitions and festivals dedicated to country line dance. Since then, country line dancing has become a global phenomenon with a wide variety of styles, choreography and country music to go with it.

What is the importance of country line dancing attire?

Attire is a very fundamental part of the country line dance culture and aesthetic. Some of the main reasons why attire is so important in this dance form are:

• Cultural Identity: The attire used in country line dancing often reflects the cultural identity and lifestyle of the American West. Typical costumes and accessories, such as cowboy hats, cowboy boots, western shirts, jeans, cowboy belts and bandanas, are an integral part of the country and western image. Wearing this type of attire while country line dancing can help dancers connect with the culture and history associated with this style of dance.

• Functionality: Country line dance attire can also have a practical function. For example, cowboy boots are very durable and offer good support for the feet and ankles during the intense physical activity of the dance, as well as adding dynamism and showmanship to the choreography. Western belts, with their characteristic large buckle, keep the pants in place while energetic movements are performed and are a very powerful hallmark among line dancers. The same goes for jeans, especially if they are jeans specifically for wearing with cowboy boots, like the ones you’ll find at Corbeto’s. These are jeans designed to wear with all kinds of boots and booties without bulging the shaft, be comfortable and allow for a wide range of unrestricted movement, which is essential for efficient line dancing.

• Style and presentation: Country line dance attire is also about style and presentation, as dancers strive to look good and stand out on the dance floor, especially at events and competitions. Wearing appropriate attire can add style and elegance to the dance, and can also help dancers feel more confident. In addition, in some country line dance competitions, the appearance and style of the dancers may be considered by the judges as part of the overall score.

• Sense of community: this attire can also foster a sense of community and camaraderie among dancers. Dressing similarly can help create a sense of belonging and connection with other dancers, and strengthen social and emotional bonds among participants. In addition, attire can serve as a visual identifier for country line dancers at events or competitions, facilitating connection among members of the dancing community.

 

Why country line dancing is so successful

If you’re already a dancer, you’ll know why you love country line dancing so much. But it’s also possible that you’ve never thought about it and just enjoy dancing, which is what it’s all about. Anyway, if this dance hooks is for several reasons:

• It is accessible: The country line dance is a type of dance that does not require previous dancing skills. It doesn’t matter if you are experienced or not, anyone can learn how to do the basic steps and join in the fun. Also, country songs often have very catchy rhythms that are easy to follow, making it easy to learn the steps.

• It’s social: Country line dancing is a social activity where people get together to dance as a group. This creates a sense of community and camaraderie among the dancers. In addition, many country line dance events include live music, making it an even more exciting and social experience.

• It’s fun: Dancing country music is fun and recharges you with positive energy. The moves and steps of line dancing are upbeat and energetic, allowing dancers to express themselves and enjoy the rhythm of the music. In addition, line dancing with a group of people creates a sense of belonging and excitement that makes the experience even more enjoyable.

• It’s physical exercise: Country line dancing also offers health benefits. Dancing is a fun way to exercise, as it involves cardiovascular and muscle-strengthening movements.
• It is part of cowboy culture: Country line dancing is an important part of western culture, especially in the United States and other English-speaking countries. Many people find the fact that this dance allows them to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of the American West appealing, making it an attractive and meaningful activity for those who are interested in this culture.

Overall, if you have an interest in country music and dancing, and are looking for a fun and special social activity, country line dancing is an excellent choice. And you can always count on Corbeto’s for the perfect outfit for your dance sessions: from head to toe, literally, in our store you will find all the genuine denim clothing and accessories to discover that country line dance is more than just dancing.