I have only started competing recently. I am always flustered can anyone give me a list of things to remember to help me prepare for my comps and advice for a more polished look. What is the best tan to use, do I need to wear fishnets for latin etc.

Hi to Aleena,
One of the past giants of English style dance, Mr Len Scrivener, wrote many years ago the following points:
1) The first essential point is silhouette. Briefly, this involves basic stance as individuals and as a couple.
2) Movement. By this I mean the action and not the progression. A couple can run around the floor all night and still lack movement.
3) Balance and Control. Good dancing calls for a good sense of balance and control over the body, legs and feet.
4) Characterization. In which the musical and interpretative ability of the couple become more evident. The couple should concentrate on the basic rhythms in each dance.
5) Construction. Non-characteristic figures should be avoided.
(ILuv2Dance)All the above I've written briefly.

Number one tip to remember when you are just starting...remember to have fun! It can be overwhelming, but hopefully you'll have many more to come. Nerves were my worst problem starting out...try to connect with the audience (if you can) and not worry about the judges (don't be afraid to smile at the judges also...people can be very supportive if you let them.) You don't have to be perfect! If you are dancing pro-am, you might consider taking a lesson with your teacher's partner or another pro/lady at the studio to help with styling and give you tips on the other stuff (tan, nails, appropriate dress for your level of dance) They will know what's what in your area. Get some tips on hair also.

Aleena,

I think you should try to keep your dance outfit simple (nothing wild or too skimpy for latin) as I think it is absolutely ridiculous to see someone all decked out performing at a complete beginner level! You can wear a simple dress but it's nice when the skirt has lots of movement; it shows off your moves when you turn! It's really up to you whether you want to wear fishnet or not but I recommend that you purchase the heavy fishnet tights from a dance supply store as they really pull you up and look "right" for competitions. As for a tan, you can use self tanner from a bottle or towelettes but remember to go easy at first if your skin is pale to begin with.

As far as your dancing, my advice to you is: 1) stand up straight, 2) keep your shoulders down and 3) don't look down--all things I am still working on myself!

Best of luck!

Hi Everyone,Thanks for your feedback. It was very helpful.

For preparing for competition

The week before:
Depending on your skin tone, hair color and how you react to different tanning products, I suggest trying out a few before a competition. I find the mystic tans work well. Practice your routines.
Just before:
Make sure you have everything... start at the bottom. Shoes, yes to fishnets, appropriate dance trunks, Dresses, makeup, glitter, hair products... always expect something to go funny and bring safety pins, touch up makeup,bandaids, power bars or munchies, a pen, highlighter to mark your heats in your program, maybe even a spare dress and some comfy clothes for lounging during the breaks.

Good luck and have fun.