We had the good fortune of connecting with Dani Montoya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dani, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Nature; cliche I know. But I look at the color combinations and the way certain shapes interact and make it pleasing the the eyes. After all, nature is the best designer… why not take a few lessons away from just observing it. Music…. especially for what I do. Designing a garment for someone to express themselves. Sometimes it’s as simple as wanting to feel your best and other times it’s bringing a story to life. Music, the highs, the lows, the pause, all plays a role in the shape, color, and aesthetic for our designs.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Opra Dancewear is innovative, fun, and all about the experience! We try and keep our styles and colors fresh and on brand for what it means to be a dancer. You go to convention and you’re taking 8 different styles of classes… meanwhile the whole day is basically an audition. You’re outfit will say a lot about you, it will help you get into the mood of the genre, feel confident, give you the range of motion, and most of all give a taste of who you are as a person. I know it’s a lot jam packed into a leotard or two piece set, but that really is our goal. Making sure you are inspired to move!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The beach, the drive over the bridge and seeing the skyline is my fav. Then some yummy hot spots like sugar and of course gotta bring it back west for some ghee and abe Maria

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom and dad, my boyfriend Daniel, and my ride or die girl gang of friends.

Website: https://www.opradancewear.com
Instagram: @opradancewear
Twitter: @opradancewear
Facebook: Facebook.com/Opradancewear

Image Credits
Kaylee Kintz Luccia Lowenthal Kenny Palacios

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.