What to Wear Two-Stepping in Austin: A Real Guide
Walk into any Austin honky-tonk and you'll see a beautiful mix: some people in full Western regalia, some in jeans and a t-shirt, a few in sundresses, and tourists in whatever they wore to lunch. Austin is famously casual, and honky-tonks are the most welcoming part of our scene. That said, what you wear can make or break your night on the dance floor. Here's what you actually need to know.
Footwear: the only thing that really matters
If you take one thing from this post, take this: your shoes matter more than anything else. The goal is to be able to slide, pivot, and turn without friction. Here's the hierarchy:
- Leather-soled cowboy boots - the gold standard. They slide beautifully on a waxed wood floor.
- Any dress shoe with a leather sole - great alternative if you don't own boots yet.
- Suede-soled dance shoes - wonderful if you already have them.
- Clean sneakers with smooth soles - acceptable, especially for beginners.
- Rubber-soled boots, gym sneakers, flip-flops, hiking boots - please no. You'll stick, you'll trip, you'll be miserable.
Heels are fine but keep them under two inches if you're new. Stability beats style every time on a crowded floor.
Clothing: comfort over costume
Austin honky-tonks are not a costume party. You don't need to dress like you're auditioning for Urban Cowboy. The best outfit is one that lets you move, doesn't make you overheat, and makes you feel good.
For followers
Dresses and skirts work beautifully - they move with you and make spins look effortless. Anything mid-thigh to knee-length is ideal; long flowing skirts can get stepped on. Jeans with a comfortable top work just as well. Avoid anything tight through the hips (restricts footwork) or anything strapless (you'll be pulling it up all night).
For leaders
Jeans and a button-down is the classic uniform, and it works for a reason. Avoid anything with a lot of extra fabric that could catch on your partner. A Western shirt with pearl snaps is fun but not required. Bring a bandana or small towel - you'll sweat.
Hats: optional, not mandatory
Cowboy hats are a fun accessory but they're not required. If you wear one, know the etiquette: remove it when you're seated at a table, don't let anyone else wear it, and if you're dancing close, angle it so the brim doesn't hit your partner's face.
Where to buy boots in Austin
If you decide to invest in boots, Austin has excellent options: Allens Boots on South Congress (the classic), Heritage Boot on South Congress, Cavender's (multiple locations for budget-friendly options), and Buffalo Trading Co. on Burnet for vintage and resale.
What NOT to wear
- Stilettos or very high heels (you will fall)
- Flip flops or sandals (you will get stepped on)
- Restrictive pencil skirts or tight dresses
- Strapless anything you'll have to adjust constantly
- A full Halloween-costume-looking getup (we know you're not Yellowstone)
Ready to actually go dancing? Check tonight's Austin honky-tonk schedule and find a lesson before the music starts.
See tonight's schedule →One more thing
Austin honky-tonks are judgment-free. You will see people in everything from formal Western wear to jeans and a Target t-shirt. What matters is that you show up, that you treat the dance floor with respect, and that you have fun. Everything else is just details.
← Back to tonight's schedule