About Us

Designs to Shine was founded in 1996 by Maria McGill. A professional dancer for many years, Maria began designing her own costumes with the help of her mother and sister. Her creations were so popular with other dancers that they started to request she make their gowns. Eventually the demand for her gowns became so great that she decided to devote her time solely to designing. We specialize in American Smooth, International Standard, Latin, Rhythm, Evening, Practice, Bridal, and Pageant gowns. The business has grown exponentially over the years and is now bigger than ever. Designs to Shine by Maria McGill is the leader in the Ballroom industry for quality & design.

Designs to Shine was chosen to design all of the gowns for the Premier Season of Dancing with the Stars, Dancing with the Stars Rematch Special, So You Think You Can Dance, American Ballroom Challenge, and on Skating with Celebrities. Our gowns have also been showcased on the Maury Povich Show, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, in several nationally published magazines & newspapers, and we continue to get involved with charity and other special events, locally and nationwide.

Between our love of the dance industry and our desire to make every woman look amazing, we continue to surpass our own standards every year. Designs to Shine by Maria McGill: Style & elegance on and off the Ballroom floor. Experience a whole new world of luxury with our custom designed Dancewear, Evening & Bridal Gowns.