Jazz Modes

NZ Truth, Issue 1029, 15 August 1925, Page 18

Jazz Modes

New Styles and Steps

JAZZ, like everything else, is changing its style, and many dancers are rapidly discarding the rather passe technique of last year's jazziness for the fascinating "hesitations," which are now THE thing for the up-to-date dancer. London, with its enlarged circle of dance clubs and cabarets, is, leading the way with a more athletic movement for the ballroom dancer, so that steps which were long arc now longer, and the "hesitation" is suggested anywhere and everywhere by the short steps, which are now even shorter. Although there are no very new dances, apart from the up-to-date

tango, dancing has become rather more difficult for the amateur. The waltz — with a difference — is making a strong- bid for popular favor, and is a six-step affair these days, danced without any rigid rules. Practice Necessary. A hesitation step is introduced by most of the best dancers. It should bo practised well, for the necessity for perfect balance is likely to be a stumbling-block for the unwary. Feet must be closer together when passing each other on the floor, and neatness is more than ever an essential to the dancer who would be conspicuI ous as-a stylist m the best ballrooms. The choice of a dance frock -is a problem which should be given - serious thought, for "tube" frocks are apt to cramp the style of the individualist. Fringe is moderately popular for straight line trimmings, but beads m fringe form should be avoided, by the jazzer who would preserve her equilibrium on the floor. To avoid the dilemma of becoming attached to a coat button on another dancer's beaded draperies is one of the best reasons for acquiring a "safety first" gown of lace or the new handpainted chiffons. The sleeveless gown is still popular, and has suggested the new jazz novelty of a plaited paper armlet, decorated with a butterfly bow. Headwear is "off" m the best circles, no doubt because of its disturbing influence on I the sleek and shingled tresses of the J jazzing demoiselle.