Our Story

I started Dance Thoughts in 2007 because I couldn't find apparel that actually spoke our language.

I'd spent my entire life in studios—dancing since age 5, competing from 13, and teaching by 16. I knew every inside joke, every competition weekend struggle, every "if you know, you know" moment. But when I looked for shirts that captured what dance life actually felt like? Nothing. Just generic "Keep Calm and Dance On" stuff that missed the point entirely.

So I created what was missing: designs for the people who live this world. The ones who count music in grocery stores. The dance moms surviving on coffee and pride-tears. The teachers who stay late because they believe. Eighteen years later, that's still our mission—turning the sacred chaos of dance life into wearable joy.

Me at a Nutcracker tech rehearsal during my teaching years. These moments—the chaos, the fog machines, the behind-the-scenes magic—are why I built Dance Thoughts. I may not be in the studio anymore, but I'm still creating for the people who are.

We've grown from a small Etsy store into a brand loved by thousands of dancers, dance moms & dads, and dedicated teachers across the globe.

Here's what we believe:
Dance isn't just movement—it's identity, expression, and community. The best moments happen offstage in beautiful chaos, not onstage in perfection. And every person who makes dance magic happen (yes, that includes YOU) deserves to wear their story proudly.

That's why every design we create is:

  • Born from real dance family experiences (not trends or algorithms)
  • Made to celebrate your journey, from first recital to final curtain call
  • Soft, durable, and made to move—just like you

What Our Dance Families Are Saying:

"I am recovering from total hip replacement surgery. I wore this to studio tonight. I may not be dancing right now, but this told my story."
— Sarah L.

"Quick & easy to purchase. Shirt is super soft, fits amazing, and arrived quickly! Reasonably priced as well. May just have to purchase some other items from this seller! :)"
— Gina Elizabeth G.

"Love this company and its shirts! Great sayings to choose, reasonably priced, fast delivery! Have bought before and will continue. Have told my dance studio friends this is definitely the place for dance shirts!"
— Rita M.

Whether you're leaping through rehearsals or cheering from the wings, we're here to help you wear your passion proudly.

Thanks for dancing through life with us. Let's keep moving, together.

Kristin
Founder, Dance Thoughts