Types of Ballroom Dancing: The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Dance Floor Groove

Ballroom dancing isn’t just about waltzing around in a fancy outfit (although, who doesn’t love a little glam?). It’s about connecting with your partner, expressing yourself, and, let’s be honest, looking like you totally belong on Dancing with the Stars. But did you know there are different styles of ballroom dancing? And each one has its own vibe.

Whether you’re planning your wedding first dance or just trying to avoid stepping on toes at your next event, we’re breaking down the types of ballroom dancing into two main categories: Standard/Smooth and Latin/Rhythm. Let’s dive in!

International Standard / American Smooth Dances

Think of Standard/Smooth ballroom dances as the rom-coms of ballroom dancing: elegant, sweeping, and full of romance. These dances are all about gliding across the floor with poise and grace.

Waltz: The Timeless Romantic

• What it is: Slow, flowing, and packed with elegance.
• What it feels like: Starring in your own fairytale.
• Perfect for: Weddings and formal events where you want to impress.
• Example

Foxtrot: The Old Hollywood Classic

• What it is: Smooth, stylish, and versatile, with walking steps and turns.
• What it feels like: Channeling Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
• Perfect for: Anyone who loves vintage glam and a relaxed pace.
• Example

Tango (Ballroom Tango, not to be confused with Argentine Tango): The Drama Queen

• What it is: Passionate, intense, and full of sharp movements.
• What it feels like: The ballroom dance equivalent of The Notebook (the rainy scene).
• Perfect for: Couples looking to spice things up on the dance floor.
• Example

Viennese Waltz: The Speedy Romantic

• What it is: A faster version of the classic waltz with constant spins.
• What it feels like: Being caught in a whirlwind of romance.
• Perfect for: Couples who find the regular waltz a little too slow.
• Example

Quickstep: The Fun Overachiever

• What it is: Fast-paced with hops, kicks, and turns.
• What it feels like: Dancing after one too many lattes.
• Perfect for: Advanced dancers who love to show off their skills.
• Example

International Latin / American Rhythm Dances

Latin/Rhythm dances are like your favorite party playlist: energetic, spicy, and impossible not to love. These dances emphasize hip action, footwork, and vibrant expressions.

International Latin Dances

Cha-Cha (also in American Rhythm): The Sassy Flirt

• What it is: Quick, fun, and full of personality.
• What it feels like: A playful conversation, but in dance form.
• Perfect for: Turning heads at weddings or parties.
• Example

Rumba (faster version also in American Rhythm): The Love Story

• What it is: Slow, sensual, and romantic with lots of hip movement.
• What it feels like: Dancing through the Notebook soundtrack, minus the heartbreak.
• Perfect for: Date nights and unforgettable wedding first dances.
• Example

Samba: The Life of the Party

• What it is: Bouncy, lively, and Brazilian at its core.
• What it feels like: Leading a carnival parade—but make it chic.
• Perfect for: Couples who love high-energy dancing and fun vibes.
• Example

Jive: The Swing King

• What it is: A fast-paced, upbeat dance with kicks and spins.
• What it feels like: Swing dancing’s cooler, bouncier cousin.
• Perfect for: Fun-loving dancers who aren’t afraid of a challenge.
• Example

Paso Doble: The Power Play

• What it is: A dramatic dance inspired by bullfighting.
• What it feels like: Owning the room with bold, commanding movements.
• Perfect for: Those who love the spotlight and a theatrical flair.
• Example

American Rhythm Dances

Bolero: The Dreamy Daydreamer

• What it is: A smooth, romantic dance with sweeping movements.
• What it feels like: Dreamy and heartfelt, like a rumba with extra flow.
• Perfect for: Couples who want a softer, more romantic vibe.

Mambo: The Sassy Crowd-Pleaser

• What it is: A high-energy dance with sharp, syncopated movements.
• What it feels like: Electric and vivacious, like a salsa on overdrive.
• Perfect for: Adding a touch of Cuban flair to your performance.

Swing: The Retro Party Starter

• What it is: A lively dance with rock steps, spins, and plenty of personality.
• What it feels like: Pure joy, with a side of vintage charm.
• Perfect for: Couples who just want to have fun on the dance floor.

Why LunaSol Shoes Are Perfect for Ballroom Dancing

Let’s be real: you can’t rock the dance floor if your shoes aren’t pulling their weight. LunaSol shoes are designed with ballroom dancers in mind:

• Flexible Soles: Move with ease while pointing, flexing, or spinning.
• Cushioned Insoles: Dance for hours without wincing in pain.
• Stable Heels: Stay balanced through dips, lifts, and every step in between.
• Chic Designs: Look stunning enough for a wedding, but practical enough for every dance.

Choosing Your Ballroom Dance Style

If you’re unsure which style to try, think about your vibe:

• Romantic and dreamy? Start with the waltz or rumba.
• Fiery and bold? Go for the tango or paso doble.
• Fun and carefree? Cha-cha or swing/jive all the way.

Final Spin

Ballroom dancing is for everyone—whether you’re prepping for your first dance, joining a competition, or just looking to try something new. The best part? There’s no wrong way to start, as long as you have the right shoes (hint: LunaSol).

Ready to dance? Check out our collection of wedding and ballroom dance shoes for styles that make every step count.