I am going to compete for the first time with my instructor, in a pro-am competition this September. I will do two latin, for which I have perfect Latin type shoes. However, I will also dance some waltz and quickstep. I realize that shoe pair#1 which is very strappy isn't appropriate, but after looking at many online shoe stores, I am confused as to what is acceptable / normal for the other smooth dances. It seems most have closed toe - is it ok to have open toe in smooth, just with a more "classy" look?
Thanks!!!
(next step wardrobe...)
Sara

No. It's okay to wear your latin shoes for smooth at your first comp, but if you are investing in shoes for that purpose they must have closed toes, otherwise you are wasting your money. Talk to your teacher or a female pro at the studio about specific models, there are some shoes out there that look like they are for smooth but actually have latin heel placement and so won't work.

dont buy shoes online, just dont, trust me. go to a dance store and spend a little extra money and spare yout self the pain, and haveing to just go buy another pair at a daance store any way. never buy online unless you already know that the brand/style/size fits you from experence

Ideally go to the store in the company of an advanced standard lady - don't trust the salespeople, ballet people don't understand ballroom at all.

Saraz.This has been on before. Latin shoes for Modern can cause a problem. You or another lady nearby can finish with the heel going down the inside of the strap. It does happen. Court shoes for Modern allow you to extend back right to the tip of the toe. In Latin that will be your toe nail on the floor.