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What to Wear to a Ceilidh (Women): Winter Weddings, Christmas and Hogmanay

“A ceilidh is the one party where the dress has to work as hard as you do. If it looks lovely standing still but you can't lift your arms or spin in it, it's the wrong dress. Pick movement first and pretty second, and you'll be the one still dancing at midnight.”Her take

Is there a dress code for a ceilidh?

Usually not a strict one. A ceilidh is a social dance with a live band and a caller, so what you wear depends on the event around it: a village hall Christmas ceilidh is casual to smart, a wedding ceilidh follows the wedding dress code, and a black-tie Hogmanay ceilidh calls for evening wear. If the invitation mentions a dress code, follow it; if not, dress smart and comfortable.

Plan for real dancing. Dances such as Strip the Willow, the Gay Gordons and the Dashing White Sergeant involve spinning, linking arms, swinging partners and moving fast around the room.

Dresses and skirts that work

A midi or knee-length dress with a skirt that moves, such as an A-line or gentle flare, is ideal. It swishes nicely on the turns without getting under anyone's feet. A full circle skirt looks wonderful but lifts high when you spin, so wear snug shorts underneath if you choose one.

Avoid very tight pencil skirts and anything that restricts your stride. Check the top half too: lift both arms above your head in the changing room. If the dress rides up, gapes or pulls across the shoulders, it won't survive a reel. Necklines that stay put are better than very low cuts when you're bouncing for three hours.

• Casual or village hall: a midi skirt, a fine knit or blouse, opaque tights and flat boots.
• Wedding ceilidh: a midi dress in a soft-movement fabric, with a cardigan or wrap for later.
• Black-tie Hogmanay: a long-sleeved floor-skimming dress with a side split, or a velvet trouser suit, plus a tartan sash if it's a family tradition.

What shoes to wear to a ceilidh

Flat or low block heels with a secure fastening. You'll be skipping, stamping and being spun, so slip-on ballet pumps can fly off and stilettos are a risk to your ankles and everyone's toes. Mary Janes with a strap, low block-heeled ankle boots, or brogues are all good choices.

Check the sole: smooth leather on a polished wooden floor is slippery, while a sole with a little grip stops you sliding. If you want heels for photos at a wedding, bring a pair of flats in your bag for the dancing.

How to dress for a hot hall and a cold walk home

Ceilidh halls get hot fast once the dancing starts, even in December. Wear a light, breathable dress or top as your main layer, rather than a heavy wool jumper you can't take off. Add a cardigan, wrap or blazer for the start of the evening and the breaks.

Bring a proper warm coat, a scarf and gloves for outside. In Scotland in winter, the walk from the venue to the car or taxi can be bitterly cold, and you'll be warm and damp from dancing.

Jewellery, hair and bags

Keep jewellery close to the body. Long necklaces swing into faces, large rings hurt when you're holding hands with strangers, and dangly earrings catch on hair and sleeves. Studs or small hoops, a short pendant and slim rings are best. Leave sharp brooches at home, or pin them where no partner will be grabbed.

Tie long hair back in a ponytail, low bun or braid so it doesn't whip your partner during spins. Carry a small crossbody bag or leave valuables with someone sitting out, because you won't want to hold anything once the band starts.

Questions people ask

The takeaway

Movement first: a midi dress you can spin and lift your arms in, flat or low-heeled strapped shoes with grip, light layers for a hot hall, small jewellery and your hair tied back.

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