From K-pop dance classes to choreographies that went viral like Jolo Santos’ “Rodeo” and Trisha Martin’s “Lagabog,” a lot of dancers and aspiring dancers now flock to dance studios to learn these and have fun. Thanks to these spaces and their coaches, we’re given the chance not just to dance their pieces but also to perform them with style and attitude.
I, myself, started going to dance classes because of my love for the K-pop group SEVENTEEN. I started exploring beginner dance classes, and along with it, a piece of myself that I abandoned when I was in college.
I’m not a good dancer yet, but in the past two years, I’ve dedicated my after-work hours to taking dance classes at Zero Studio PH. And while I think my super beginner self has somehow grown, there’s another thing I’m learning from this hobby, and that’s coming to class in style.
Going to several classes, I’ve noticed my coaches and classmates wearing these a lot: cargo pants, loose shirts, and caps. I’ve also found myself imitating the same style, to be honest!
To feed my curious mind as to why these are the most-worn clothing pieces during dance classes, I decided to chat with two of the most sought-after coaches in the Zero Studio community and ask them what their go-to outfits are, and what they would recommend for students looking to groove in style.
Swag classes staples
Just by browsing his Instagram page, Sef Remollo, a dance instructor in Zero Studio PH and also an established member of the world-renowned dance group A-Team, wears his signature style with baggy jeans, an oversized graphic tee, and some accessories. “Sometimes, a tank top would do too on warmer days. If I’m feeling extra, I just add another layer like a baseball jersey, jacket, or a baggy polo on top of the tank top.”
An inside joke in the community, students have also pointed out how Sef mastered the art of wearing bandanas and has become his signature look as an instructor. “I wear caps or bandanas over my head in case I’m not feeling my messy hair, or I’m feeling maangas (that day.) I add in some bling bling just to match the swag.”
While going to classes in style may add to a student’s aura and confidence while performing during group runs, Sef suggests there should be a balance between comfort and style. “The style may either limit their movement. Like most jeans are not stretchable, or (some styles) may give them a heavy feeling, especially when layers can tire you out on warmer days.”
For the dance style he teaches, Sef recommends students to wear baggy pants and sweatpants. How you wear your top can also affect how you look while dancing. “The top may depend on whether you want to show off the shape of your torso. You can go with tight tank tops or shirts from sports brands, or if you want to give a more easy-going visual of your movements, baggy tees, or layering with baggy polos or jackets would be your go-to.”
And finally, for his shoes, Sef’s go-to pairs are from Puma, Nike, and New Balance. “They go well with mostly my baggy fits.”
Sexy but comfy for femme classes
If you want to explore your feminine side in dance, try basic femme dance classes. And at Zero Studio, you can never go wrong with Jana Mahusay-Vicente’s class, or as the Zero community calls it, the Queen’s Court.
Also hailing from the A-Team, Jana describes her fashion sense as a dancer as comfortable and sexy. “I always like to show a little skin! Since I teach mostly femme classes, I’m usually in cycling shorts and a tank top.”
Femme is a dance style that emphasizes femininity and self-confidence, which is why students often wear outfits that highlight and accentuate their body curves. While this is ideal to help them practice self-love during dance classes, Jana notes, comfort should be above anything else. “If you don’t feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, there’s no way you can perform well. However, I do believe that if you look good, then you feel good, and if you feel good, then you’ll do good. So I think comfort and style should go hand in hand.”
For her femme classes, Jana recommends students to wear something tight. “So that each move is really emphasized. I love a good bodysuit and tank top because these are so versatile! You can be so creative with it yet (feel) comfortable.”
While some femme choreos call for floor movements, it’s best to protect your body while dancing, so knee pads are also a must.
I only just began learning how to dance, yet I’ve gained a lot of insights beyond just dancing. One of those is how to build my confidence. While I’m still a work in progress, it’s encouraging to hear from coaches on how to enhance that confidence, which includes wearing stylish outfits that prioritize comfort.
Ready to come to class in your best self, yet? Here are some pieces you can get online, inspired by the suggestions from our fave Zero coaches:
SWAG
PUMA Caven 2.0 Lux SD Sneakers – P4,500
New Balance 740 Unisex Sneakers – P6,495
Nike Women’s Sportswear Jersey Dance Long-Sleeve Top – P2,460
Nike Men’s Max90 Fitness T-Shirt – P1,995
Armando Caruso Paisley Bandana 3 pieces – P342.5
FEMME
Nike Women’s Sportswear Essentials Ribbed Cropped Tank Top – P1,610
Nike Dri-FIT Women’s Indy Light-Support Padded Adjustable Sports Bra – P1,695
Nike Women’s Pro 365 Training shorts – P1,295
Sponge Knee Pads for Women – P198
– Rappler.com
Explore dance classes at Zero Studio PH and register through their website: https://zerostudioph.com/
Locations:
- No. 37 Sct. Borromeo St. Baragany South Triangle, Quezon City
- 1/F Greenfield Tower, Mandaluyong
Follow Zero Studio on their Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on their upcoming classes.
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