Powwow 101 - Women's Fancy

The Women's Fancy Shawl dance, also known as the Butterfly Dance in some stories, is considered to be the women's version of the Men's Fancy Dance. It's worth noting that some dancers perform in the Old Style, while others prefer the Modern Contemporary style. The key difference between the two is that Old Style dancers utilize small footwork, whereas Modern Contemporary dancers incorporate high kicks and extensive spinning into their performance. Dancers wear a shawl & long flowing dress with a belt, and beaded accessories to go with their regalia. Some dancers don’t wear a shawl only dance with a scarf, and others wear the shawl on their arm.