Few cast members shone quite as brightly as Kalani Hilliker on Lifetime’s “Dance Moms.”
Beyond her mesmerizing technical ability, Hilliker demonstrated a sense of discipline and maturity well beyond her years.
I booked one of my first jobs when I was around 10, so I knew quite early.
I did try everything, as most kids do.
I did soccer, softball, and everything, but I always knew that dance was my passion.
My mom also put me in whatever [activities] I was happy with.
What was it like for you to get adjusted to the filming of “Dance Moms?”
“Dance Moms” was an adjustment.
I also was on an ABC show called “Bunheads.”
I was just dancing, and it was two days of filming, and then I was away.
I knew what it was like to be on camera.
I did “Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition,” which was eight weeks of that.
I was very naturally talented in dance.
That was just something that I was good at.
I did work really hard to get to where I was at.
I loved it, and it was my passion, so I wanted to do it.
What were some of the biggest life lessons that you took away from being on “Dance Moms?”
Discipline is the first one.
I worked really hard outside of the hours that we were filming.
It’s my art.
What do you find the most rewarding about being on the other side?
I started teaching dance more recently.
I re-found that love for dance.
I love dancing myself, but I know that I learned so much growing up.
It’s more than just dance.
It teaches you how to be a person.
Most life lessons I’ve learned, I learned through dance.
What are some of your favorite ways to practice self-care these days?
I love to take baths, do meditation, manifestation, and journaling.
Taking time to relax is something that I’m really passionate about.
I recently launched my brand, Kare x Kalani, in May.
I have so many different products.
My favorite right now would be The Thera-Wrap Headband.
It helps with migraines, headaches, de-puffing, and relaxation.
It’s something that I love to use.
I use it in the morning and at night.
I also have an eye mask that does the same thing.
How would you say that your personal style has evolved since that first collection?
I’ve matured and come into [my own] a lot.
As a dancer or being on a show, there are so many other people that are around you.
It’s been super fun being here [in New York] for Fashion Week.
I haven’t been here in a minute.
It’s been fun.
What were some highlights for you at this year’s New York Fashion Week?
This year, I actually had a gifting suite with Kare x Kalani in it.
I love to always help people.
That was probably my favorite part that I’ve had here so far.
Also, going to the different shows and presentations is always fun.
There are a couple of things going on.
While I’ve been here, I’ve been on a couple of podcasts.
I’m really excited for those to launch.
I have some stuff coming out with that, and then new products for Kare x Kalani.
We launch pretty often.
I’m currently working on some stuff in the skincare, makeup, and fitness-dance space.
The “Dance Moms” star invites you to explore the full Kare x Kalani line atkare.shop.
This interview has been edited for clarity.
