Embracing Elegance

The beauty of tango can be broadly divided into two styles: elegant and fancy. Elegance is characterized by naturalness, simplicity, refinement, and decorum, bringing grace, calm, sophistication, and harmony to the dance. Fanciness, in contrast, is marked by intricate movements, elaborate footwork, and striking embellishments, evoking liveliness, chic, variety, and creativity. Each style has a valuable place in tango, contributing to its richness and diversity. The examples below illustrate both approaches.

Sadly, in our current culture that glorifies unconventionality and ostentation, fanciness is frequently overdone by shallow imitators, becoming associated with flamboyance and frivolity. In this context, embracing elegance seems to take on even greater significance, especially in social dancing.

At its core, social tango is a dialogue between two people, with an emphasis on feeling rather than show. That’s why tango milonguero, the most popular style of social tango, emphasizes elegance over flashiness. Elegance reflects an inner harmony and a deep understanding of the dance. In its simplicity lies an inward focus that resonates with the soul. 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 versus Flashy Movements.)

For dancers seeking to transcend mere performance, the pursuit of elegance becomes a journey toward a deeper experience and timeless beauty. Even fancy styles can be approached with a focus on taste and elegance rather than ostentation, as shown in the examples above. Unlike transient fads, elegance leaves an indelible mark on both the dancer and the observer. When we watch a truly elegant tango performance, we are captivated not by the complexity of the steps, but by the sheer beauty and grace emanating from the dancers' genuine, inner selves.

Perhaps the most compelling reason to cultivate elegance is its transformative effect on the dancer. As we refine an elegant style, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, letting go of the urge to impress and instead focus on connecting more deeply with our partner, the music, and ourselves. In pursuing elegance, we learn the art of restraint - doing less to achieve more. By stripping away excessive embellishments and focusing on the purity of natural movement, we uncover the true essence of tango and 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.)