Hi, I am going to be in my first competition. I will be dancing some latin and some smooth. I have dresses that I think are appropriate for each. For the longer gown for the smooth dances, I was wondering what is the optimal length. Should it be just above the ankle or closer to mid-calf? I was thinking of adding sleeves or those little floaty things on the wrists, but someone told me the wrist things were only appropriate if I am dancing international (I am not).Is this true? Any other advice, tips, etc?
Thank you for you expertise!

Are you going to a sanctioned competition as an amateur or are you doing pro-am? There are strict dress codes for amateurs at all levels. The floats for the arms are only worn in international because the dancers stay in close hold. Smooth dancers have figures where the dancers open up and you both could get tangled up in the floats. If you are dancing pro-am there are no rules really and you can wear whatever you want. As for length, be careful that your dress is not so long that you step on it when you bend your knees.

You have not indicated what kind of competition and/or category which would be helpful. Most competitions have rules/regulations regarding costumes which you should review. I'll assume you've done that - so that said, to address your question, if your dancing American Smooth and your movement patterns would not be impeded or cause a tangle or a float caught up a small kerchief scarf style off the wrist - note the word "small" should not be a big deal. I've done that, actually with 4 small scarfs off the wrists and elbows. HOWEVER - We practiced with these for several sessions to make sure they would work or not. Typically you would not have floats per se for Smooth. As for length, a dress slightly above the ankle so the judges can see your footwork is a good length. Practice dancing backwards as in Tango and other dances with a dress or practice skirt that will be the same length of your costume. You do not want to get your heel caught up in the dress as your moving - it could make for some stellar acrobatics on the dance floor.

I will be dancing with my husband as an amateur couple. We will be doing American smooth (and maybe a quickstep) one day, and Latin and rhythm the next. The competition is a pro-am invitational, not sure if "sanctioned" -not really sure what that means. The rules and regs on their paperwork don't really address clothing. It leans more toward age groups, categories, etc. I will take my dresses to the studio and practice to see if I need to shorten or otherwise adjust. ( the latin dress is all ready short) Thanks for all your responses.