COUNTRY DANCE LESSON

Throughout his more than fifteen years of country dance lesson instruction, Shawn Trautman's seen enough faux pas to start his own "What Not to Wear" show. Here's a short list: Skin-tight leggings. Skimpy ballroom outfits identical to those featured on "Dancing With the Stars." Sequins, sequins, sequins. And, of course, those ten-gallon cowboy hats with droopy brims.
Follow Shawn and his dance partner Joanna's rules for country attire and you'll put the focus on your dancing, not your blinding buckle bling. (Shawn and Joanna would like to mention that there is nothing wrong with a solid belt buckle, but when other dancers need sunglasses to cut the glare, it may be time to downsize.)

• Rule number one: Don't over think your outfit. Open your closet door for a moment. Do you see a pair of jeans and a comfortable shirt? You now have the requisite uniform for a country dance lesson.
• Ladies, you look great in heels. But wear them to go country dancing, and you won't be kickin' up your heels for long - you'll be resting them as you sit at the bar.
• Do you dazzle? Does your outfit warrant the word "sparkle?" If so, tone it down a bit. It's all right to choose a shirt with some pizzazz. However, dripping rhinestones onto your dance partner is never appreciated.
  

You might be saying, "I don't care - I'll wear whatever I'd like to my country dance lesson. That's a great feature of Shawn Trautman's classes. You can wear anything you'd like - even your purple sweat suit - and no one will laugh. When you do venture outside your living room, however, remember Shawn and Joanna's admonitions. Be remembered for your snazzy dance moves - not your shocking attire!