How to Flirt when Dancing

Co-authored by Yolanda Thomas and Jessica Gibson

Last Updated: April 23, 2025 References

Flirting comes naturally to some people, but if you need a little encouragement, jump on the dance floor! Between the low lighting, the mood music, and the closeness of your partner, you'll probably find it so much easier to charm them. A lot of flirting comes from just being close to the person, but we'll help you confidently express yourself on the dance floor.

1

Make eye contact.

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Hold your gaze with the person and don't look away. Nothing says you're interested in someone than gazing across a room at them before you meet on the dance floor. Direct eye contact shows that you're focusing only on that person and it can be incredibly sexy.^{[1]
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- Project confidence as you look at them so you come across as bold.
- You've probably seen people do a flirty variation of this—make eye contact, then glance down briefly before you raise your eyes to make contact again.

2

Smile at the person.

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Flash a genuine smile so they know you're interested in them. Smiling is such a simple way to flirt, but it's one of the most effective! It shows them that you're connecting with them and having a great time.^{[2]
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- This might seem obvious, but look at them when you smile. If you're smiling and looking away, you may seem bored.
- Want to get really flirty? Bite or lick your lips as you gaze at the other person.

3

Close the distance when you ask them to dance.

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Get close to the person you're interested in dancing with. Try to get in their line of sight or dance over to them. If you're already together on the dance floor, move in closer to show that you're interested in them.^{[3]
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- You might start talking with a person before and then casually ask them to dance with you, or you could walk right up to the person and say something direct like, "I'd really love to dance with you." They may be flattered or impressed at your bold move and say yes.
- If you're asking someone you already know a little, you could mouth the words "Want to dance?" from across the room or you could beckon them onto the dance floor with your finger.

4

Mirror the person's moves.

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Copying their dance moves shows you're connected to them. It's also a subtle way to signal that you like what they're doing. After all, you're doing it, too! For instance, if they're moving their shoulders and upper body to the beat, match the movement.^{[4]
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Yolanda Thomas
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- This works best if they're dancing predictably. If they keep switching up their moves, you may have to come up with your own signature move!

5

Dance closely without touching.

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There's something daring or flirty about dancing right next to someone. To pull this off, get very close to the person so you're only inches away. Brush against them lightly and then pull back. Do this a few times to build tension. It's only a matter of time before they want to get even closer!^{[5]
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- Don't forget to make eye contact. This way, you're connected even though you aren't being physical.

6

Stroke your face or neck to get their attention.

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Bring their attention up to your face. Start by touching your mouth or stroking your cheek before dragging your hand down to your chest. You'll give them all sorts of ideas that will drive them crazy!^{[6]
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- For a sassy, sexy move, put one hand on your hip. Then, feel the rhythm as you move your hips in time to the music.

7

Run your fingers through your hair.

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Draw their attention up to your face as you mess with your hair. Want to really catch their interest? Give your head a little toss so your hair falls to the opposite side.^{[7]
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- This totally works for men or women. If you've got shorter hair, you may just run your fingers through your hair from the scalp to the back to get the same effect.

8

Pull them closer to you.

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Twirl your partner towards you or pull them to you. This totally depends on what style of dancing you're doing. For a more structured, formal dance, spin your partner so they spin in towards your chest instead of away from you. If you're dancing at a club and things are more casual, just place your hand on their lower back and pull them toward you.^{[8]
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- Bringing them physically closer sends a really clear signal that you're into them.
- Send a really clear signal that you're interested in them by placing your hand on their shoulder and then bring it down to their upper chest.

9

Try out some sexy moves to turn up the heat.

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Bump against them and hold their hips as you sway. The trick to dirty dancing is feeling the music and being sensual with your partner. As you dance, try to stay close to your partner and move your core—your belly, hips, and shoulder. This helps keep you connected so you build intimacy.^{[9]
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- You could also start by standing behind them. Put your hands on their waist and sway with them in time to the music.
- Since dirty dancing isn't about big movements, make lots of little ones. For instance, rub your hands over their back, legs, or hips.

10

Compliment the person.

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Give them a specific compliment that shows you're interested. People can sense a genuine compliment, so be real with them! Think of something that makes them unique and tell them you like it. They'll be flattered and drawn to you.^{[10]
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- Say, "Your outfit is stunning!" or, "I like the way you move," for instance.
- If you think you're hitting it off, don't be afraid to ask for their number. You could say, "I'm having a great time! I'd love to get your number and stay in touch."
- Reader Poll: We asked 899 wikiHow readers who've flirted with someone, and 78% of them agreed that the best way to handle a rejection is to respect their wishes and gracefully end the conversation. [Take Poll]