Frequently Asked Questions

Orders, Returns & Appointments

Q1. What happens if my items don’t fit?

  • We will happily process a refund or exchange if your items (clothes or shoes) do not fit appropriately. You will be responsible for shipping the items back to our warehouse, as well as the shipping fee for any exchanges.

Q2. How do I make an appointment?

  • Our warehouse is APPOINTMENT only. All appointments must be made and confirmed via phone or email. You will need to know the shoe, style, and/or type of item you’re interested in beforehand.

Q3. When can I make an appointment?

  • Appointments are weekdays only. Hours subject to staff availability. You will need to know the shoe, style, and/or type of item you’re interested in beforehand.

Q4. What are the rules for returning items?

Refunds and exchanges will only be accepted if:

  • Shoes are unsoiled, undamaged, and unworn.
  • Clothes are unaltered, clean, and have original tags attached.

Q5. What items cannot be returned?

The following items are NOT eligible for refunds or exchanges:

  • Fishnets
  • Dance trunks
  • Rhinestone bra straps (exchange only)
  • Tanning products
  • Special orders/custom orders
  • Syllabus Books

Q6. How soon do I need to return items?

  • Refunds & exchanges must be initiated within 3 weeks (21 days) of the printed invoice date. If not, a 10% restocking fee will be added to the order.

Shipping & Backorders

Q1.How do I know if something is available?

  • You can always call or email us to find out the availability of certain items!

Q2.What does it mean when something is backordered?

  • Backordered means that the item requested is currently out of stock in our facility. If something is backordered, we will notify you via email.

Q3.How long does it take for backordered clothing items to ship?

  • Ladies’ garments are usually manufactured within 7 business days if not in stock.
  • Gentlemen’s shirts usually require a 2-week manufacturing time.

Q4.Where is the clothing made?

  • ALL Dance America Clothing is proudly designed & manufactured in the USA
  • A majority of our fabrics are imported from South Korea
  • Our thread and Elastics are woven in the USA

Q5.How long does it take for backordered shoes to ship?

  • Shipping times for backordered items varies by brand.
  • AIDA shoes range from 2-3 months. (Longer times may occur due to postal delays)
  • Dance America shoes range from 6-8 weeks.
  • DanceFeel shoes range from 10-12 weeks.
  • Ray Rose shoes range from 3-4 weeks.

Shoe Fit & Style Guidance

Q1. How should my dance shoes fit?

Ideal Fit for Ballroom Dance Shoes:

  1. Snug but Not Painful
    Your toes should be close to the front of the shoe, but not curled or cramped.
    The shoe should feel tight when new, as it will stretch slightly with wear.
    No slipping at the heel or arch — your foot should stay in place during movement.
  2. Arch Support
    A good ballroom shoe offers arch support to help with balance and reduce fatigue.
    The shoe should hug the arch without gaps.
  3. Heel Fit
    The heel should be secure and stable, especially for Latin or Standard shoes with higher heels.
    No lifting or wobbling when you rise onto the balls of your feet.
  4. Width
    The shoe should be snug across the ball of the foot, but not so tight that it causes discomfort or restricts blood flow.
  5. Flexibility
    The sole should be flexible enough to point your toes and articulate your foot, especially for Latin styles.
    Ballroom shoes may have a slightly stiffer sole for support during movement.

Q2.What is the main difference between Ballroom dance shoes and Latin dance shoes?

  • For ladies, Ballroom dance shoes are close-toed and Latin dance shoes are open-toed.
  • For men, Ballroom dance shoes have a lower heel and Latin dance shoes have a higher heel.

Q3.Why should I get dance shoes?

  • It’s like having the proper tools for the job! From suede soles and flexible shanks to various heel heights and shapes, dance shoes are crafted to help you demonstrate smooth movement and technical elements.

Q4.What is the difference between Ballroom shoes and Smooth shoes?

  • Ballroom shoes have a full shank and are fully enclosed. Smooth shoes are generally split sole (men’s) or open sides (ladies) which allows for better articulation. The distinction also relates to the difference in dance styles.

Q5.What is the difference between Latin shoes and Rhythm shoes?

  • Both Latin and Rhythm shoes can be used interchangeably! The distinction only relates to the dance style, not the actual design of the shoe.

Garment Style Guidance

Q1.What style should I pick for Ballroom and Smooth Garments?

  • For ballroom and smooth, dancers wear clothing that balances comfort, flexibility, and style, while allowing to see body lines and technique clearly. Here's a breakdown of typical practice wear:

Q2.For Women (Ballroom & Smooth):

  • Practice Dresses: Usually full, ankle length, made from stretchy materials. Some have slits or godets to allow for movement.
  • Skirts and Tops: Flowing skirts paired with fitted tops or bodysuits. Tops may have mesh, open backs, or asymmetrical designs.
  • Dance Pants: Wide-leg or flared pants made from stretch fabric, often paired with a leotard or fitted top.
  • Dance Shoes: Closed-toe ballroom shoes with a low to medium heel and suede soles.
  • Optional Layers: Wraps, shrugs, or warm-up jackets that can be removed after warming up.

Q3.For Men (Ballroom & Smooth):

  • Fitted Shirts: Stretchy, breathable materials that show posture and upper body movement.
  • Dance Trousers: Often black, with a slightly flared leg to accommodate movement and maintain a classic silhouette.
  • Dance Shoes: Standard ballroom shoes with a suede sole and low heel.
  • Vests or Practice Jackets: Sometimes worn to simulate the feel of a suit jacket without the bulk.

Q4.What style should I pick for Latin and Rhythm Garments?

  • For Latin ballroom dance, dancers typically wear clothing that allows for freedom of movement, comfort, and style, while still reflecting the flair of Latin dance. Here's what’s commonly worn:

For Women:

  • Practice Dresses or Skirts: Short, stretchy dresses or skirts with slits or fringe to show leg movement and hip action.
  • Leotards or Bodysuits: Often worn with skirts or dance pants; they stay in place and allow for full range of motion.
  • Dance Tops: Fitted tops, often with open backs, mesh, or asymmetrical designs.
  • Latin Dance Shoes: Open-toe heels with ankle straps and suede soles for grip and flexibility.

For Men:

  • Fitted T-Shirts or Dance Shirts: Stretchy, breathable materials that hug the body to show posture and lines.
  • Latin Dance Pants: flared or straight-leg pants made from stretchy fabric for ease of movement.
  • Latin Dance Shoes: Typically black leather or Canvas shoes with a Cuban heel and suede sole.

Q5.What is the difference between Latin shoes and Rhythm shoes?

  • Both Latin and Rhythm shoes can be used interchangeably! The distinction only relates to the dance style, not the actual design of the shoe.

Let's get some more help

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Why Dance America Is Highly Rated

  • Specialized Collections: They offer dedicated lines for both ballroom and Latin practice wear, including skirts, pants, tops, and accessories.
  • Function + Fashion: Their designs combine style, comfort, and performance, with features like seamless construction, eco-friendly fabrics, and bold patterns.
  • Inclusive Sizing & Variety: They cater to dancers of all levels and body types, offering a wide range of sizes and styles.
  • Trusted by Professionals: Many competitive dancers and instructors use Dance America gear for both practice and performance.