Ballroom Etiquette - Now and Then

There are aspects of ballroom etiquette that have changed and there are aspects that remain the same. This page will walk you through the etiquette of the ballroom floor for now and then. 

Back in olden times, ballroom dancing was a very formal event. Generally, it was attended by those that attained a level of affluence and status in society. The poor and middle class could not afford to attend and were not refined enough.

Well, although times have changed, there are still some aspects of ballroom dancing that are the same and require a certain level of etiquette and refinement. Let's review some of the ballroom etiquette tips that will help you get the most out of the experience.

The ballroom was really the whole essence of chivalry if you think about it. Everything was focused on a gentleman courting a lady and caring for her every need. The lady was really to do nothing on her own.

In the past, it was unheard of for a lady to ask a man to dance. The responsibility of asking was always on the man. Now, it is much more accepted for a woman to ask a man to dance. Much of this has to do with the modernization of society with men and women being equal.

The gentleman would escort his dance partner to the appropriate spot on the floor and also escort her back to her seat after the dance.

I really miss that kind of society and respect that men had for women and vice versa. I know there are women that think that they are capable to do things on their own without a man. I agree with them as they are certainly capable. What I miss is the care and attention that men would show to women. I think that has something to do with our current state of society.

Even though this page is about ballroom etiquette, I believe it goes beyond that. The old school mentality of manners and etiquette is reflective of the attention a man would give a woman. Now, for reasons I do not understand, it is "cool" to be indifferent or even rude.  I would recommend that paying attention to these details is an easy way to stand out from the crowd.

On the ballroom floor, there was always the potential of running into another couple that were dancing as well. Instead of it being a huge issue, the signal is to lightly tap your partner on the shoulder. This lets them know that there is another couple nearby so that they can adjust without running them over.

Very simply put, the etiquette on the ballroom floor was all about elegance, refinement, and sophistication. When your ballroom etiquette shows these characteristics, you are definitely on track.

Happy dancing!