Ballroom dance may look similar from the floor, but “American Style” and “International Style” refer to distinct rule sets that shape what competitors practice, perform, and how routines are evaluated. Both are rooted in the same ballroom traditions, yet they diverge in structure—especially in competition formats and figure usage.

At a high level, International Style is the version most closely associated with major global competitions and world-level events. American Style is the broader term used in the United States for a ballroom pathway that often emphasizes a slightly different set of expectations for rhythm, choreography, and permissible figures.

1) Governing rules and competition standards

International Style typically follows a standardized framework used in internationally recognized events, where dances and routines follow tighter specification. American Style commonly reflects the rule variations used by U.S.-based ... Read more »

After class, social dancing is where technique turns into confidence—so choosing the right environment matters. In Chicago, you can find a mix of structured dance nights, open-social floors, and practice-friendly venues that suit everything from ballroom and salsa to swing and partner work.

Dance studios that host socials or practice nights

Local dance studios are often the easiest place to start: they understand varying skill levels, they’re used to newcomers, and they can help you find partners who are also looking to improve. Look for nights labeled as “social,” “practice,” or “dance party,” especially if they mention rotation or guided mingling. Even if the class you took wasn’t in the same style, studios can be a good match for fundamentals like timing, frame, and leading/following.

Community dance organizations and regular event series

Beyond studios, Chicago’s community scene inclu ... Read more »