Embracing Elegance

Tango's allure can be broadly categorized into two styles: elegant and fancy. Elegance, marked by simplicity, naturalness, refinement, and decorum, imbues the dance with grace, calmness, sophistication, and harmony. On the other hand, fanciness, characterized by intricate movements, elaborate figures, and striking embellishments, evokes liveliness, vibrancy, and creativity. Both styles hold a valuable place in tango, enriching its diversity and depth. The examples below illustrate both approaches.

Regrettably, in today's culture, where unconventionality and ostentation often dominate, fanciness is sometimes exaggerated by shallow imitators, leading to associations with flamboyance and frivolity. In this context, embracing elegance becomes even more significant, particularly in social tango.

Social tango is fundamentally a conversation between two souls, centered on internal experiences rather than outward display. This introspective focus cultivates elegance—its simplicity embodies harmony and fosters a profound connection with the essence of the dance. That’s why tango milonguero, the most popular style of social tango, emphasizes elegance over fanciness. While the allure of showcasing flashy moves and intricate footwork may seem irresistible, true mastery of tango lies in the pursuit of its essence. (See The Advantages of Simplicity over Flashy Movements.)

Even fancy styles, when approached with taste and restraint, can reflect elegance rather than ostentation, as seen in the examples above. For dancers seeking to transcend mere performance, elegance offers a path toward a deeper experience and timeless beauty. Unlike fleeting trends, elegance leaves a lasting impression on both dancers and observers. A truly elegant tango performance captivates not through the complexity of steps, but through the beauty and grace that radiate from the dancers’ genuine inner selves.

But perhaps the most compelling reason to embrace elegance lies in its transformative effect. Refining an elegant style is not merely about technique—it is a journey of self-discovery. It encourages letting go of the urge to impress and instead fosters deeper connections with one’s partner, the music, and oneself. Elegance teaches the art of restraint: achieving more through less. By stripping away excessive embellishments and focusing on the purity of natural movement, we experience a newfound sense of authenticity and depth. We discover that true beauty lies not in the outward display, but in the inward journey of music, connection and interaction with another soul (see True Beauty Comes from Within).

To all tango dancers seeking to transcend the ordinary, consider the words of Audrey Hepburn: “Elegance is the only beauty that never fades.” Embrace it, embody it, and let it guide your journey toward mastering the dance. (See The Elegance of the Milonguero Style.)