If you’re dancing in Orlando and want to add something fun to your East Coast Swing, this Bow Tie and Neck Roll combo is a great pattern to try. In this step-by-step video, Anthony and Rose walk through every part of this cool, stylish move that looks fancy but is built from simple East Coast Swing basics. Whether you’re new to dancing or already have a few steps under your belt, you’ll find this pattern both accessible and impressive.
The pattern starts with a basic right turn for the follower, followed by another right turn, and then finishes with a left turn that leads into the neck roll. The structure is key here:
- Right turns start with a “prep” on the first triple step, then the actual turn happens on the second triple.
- Left turns start and finish on the first triple step.
Once you understand the timing, the move becomes way easier to lead and follow.
The first turn gets the follower facing the side of the room while the leader shifts his position slightly to stay connected. Anthony explains how hand transitions (especially switching to a handshake grip at the right time) and leading small bits of compression help keep the movement smooth and natural. They also cover the importance of prep—how to gently “stretch” the movement in one direction before leading the turn in the opposite direction, just like a rubber band.
After the second right turn, the arms create a Bow Tie shape, wrapping around the follower’s shoulders. Rose walks through how the arms rise and lower at the same time, forming a clean and symmetrical shape that makes the move look polished. It’s a small detail, but one that makes a big difference in how the move looks.
From the Bow Tie, the final left turn includes a Neck Roll, where the follower ducks under the leader’s raised arm and rolls into his shoulder. This is where timing and spacing matter the most—leaders need to lift their elbow high enough so the follower doesn’t get whacked in the head (a tip Rose jokes about but also takes seriously). The connection stays constant on the shoulder so the follower knows where to go and can stay on balance the whole time.
Another key insight from this video is that you’re never just spinning in place. East Coast Swing, like most country partner dances, has both rotational and linear momentum. You’re always moving across the floor, not just turning in a single spot. Rose emphasizes how important it is to move through space while spinning to maintain balance and flow.
Whether you’re dancing socially in Orlando or learning new material to take your dancing to the next level, this East Coast Swing combo is an awesome way to build your skills and confidence. It’s also just plain fun—and looks great on the floor. You can use this pattern at local dance events, weddings, and anywhere East Coast Swing is played.
Want to try this move in person with live feedback? At Country Dance Orlando, we offer beginner-friendly group classes and private lessons where you can learn popular patterns like this one step-by-step. Our instructors break things down clearly (just like in this video), so you never feel lost. Whether you’re brand new to dancing or looking to polish your style, we’re here to help you move with confidence.