About The Dottie
Handmade Magic for Every Mile
Founded in 2015 with the now-iconic Butt Bow™, The Dottie was born from a love of sparkle, strength, and the joy of running in something that makes you feel amazing. What began as a single seamstress sewing one-of-a-kind skirts in honor of a beloved grandmother — Dot — has grown into a joyful community of makers and runners who twirl with confidence and heart.
A Story Stitched with Love
Dottie for Running was founded in 2015 with the now-iconic Butt Bow™—a playful symbol of hand-sewn quality and extra magic for every mile.
The story began in 2014 when founder Samantha ran the Disneyland Tinkerbell Half Marathon in honor of her grandmother, “Dot.” Sparkle quickly became part of the journey—Samantha and her mom, Janet, began creating one-of-a-kind skirts that turned heads and brought joy to every step. When Samantha debuted the very first Butt Bow™ at the 2015 Wine & Dine Half, the response was overwhelming—and Dottie for Running was born. What started with a single seamstress (shoutout to Miss Lillie!) blossomed into a small but mighty team of makers who continue to handcraft each skirt with love. Along the way, a beautiful community grew—runners who love to sparkle, share finish line selfies, and proudly rep their #TeamButtBow collections.
About Cara
In 2025, I was honored to carry that magic forward.
As a mom of two girls, a wife, and a lifelong Disney lover, The Dottie speaks to everything I believe in: strength, sparkle, confidence, and joy. My first runDisney event was the 2014 Princess 10K, and I’ve been hooked ever since. When the opportunity came to take the reins of this beloved brand, I knew it was meant to be.
Today, The Dottie is expanding beyond the race course. While we’ll always cheer on magical miles, we’re also here for park days, bounding looks, and everyday twirls, same great quality, still full of heart, and always rooted in fun.
From the OGs who’ve collected Butt Bows™ for years to new fans finding us for the first time, thank you for being here. You’re not just buying a skirt. You’re joining a sisterhood of sparkly, unstoppable women.
With love (and Butt Bows™), Cara Owner, The Dottie