In With the Old Swing Your Partner

Sashay your way to a striking display with colorful Western square dance memorabilia

Dressed to Impress

As modern Western square dance surged in popularity between the 1950s and '80s, costuming became half the fun, and female dancers sported festive dresses and skirt sets (left) patterned in classic Western-style motifs such as gingham and paisley.

Outfits were either sewn from patterns at home or purchased from brands such as Denver-based Western Fashions (center), but no ensemble was complete without a poufy crinoline underskirt, which allowed for extra swish. Today, vintage ensembles typically range from $30 to $200 depending on fabric quality and design complexity.

In Record Time

The increasing commonality of records and record players in the 1950s and '60s aided in the spread of square dancing, as enthusiasts no longer had to rely on live music and callers to practice their craft. Small-scale recording studios began releasing tracks on 10-inch 78s, then later on seven-inch 45s and 12-inch LP albums.

Today, collectors seek out records featuring celebrity callers such as Ed Gilmore or pick up pieces purely for the aesthetic appeal of their sleeves. Costs typically run between $5 and $30 apiece.

Learning the Ropes