Dallas Dweller: Paulette Martsolf

Dallas is full of colorful characters. There are those you see monthly in the society pages, whose stories are legendary in this town. But, this feature is inspired by the people that I think you should know more about because of their fabulous style, interesting back-story or amazing accomplishments.  Dallas Dweller seeks to introduce you to these fabulous faces.  If you look at magazines and blogs, you might think that anyone over the age of 35 isn't relevant when it comes to fashion. Paulette Martsolf is a designer who is rocking it for those of us who aren't ready to throw in towel quite yet.

Paulette Martsolf

Paulette Martsolf's story began in St. John’s, Newfoundland where she was born and raised. She began a design career at the Sheridan College in Toronto and left there to study at the Paris Fashion Institute in France giving her the opportunity to experience the French culture. As her love of fashion intensified, she was eager to create a line and her first venture was a line of pajamas that she sold through home parties.

In Newfoundland many small children hear the words alley-coosh as the sun begins to set which translates “off to bed.” The named seemed appropriate, since this is how her career began…. sending women off to bed in luxurious sleepwear.

She met her husband on an airplane and married him in under 6 months and it was his career brought her to Texas. She garnered experience through industry jobs and then felt ready to take the plunge back into the design world. 20 years later Martsolf says, "I am a fulfilled person who lives my dream each day I walk through the Snider Plaza boutique doors. (The business) has grown way beyond my wildest expectations and I can’t wait to work on the latest new Allie-Coosh project! I am always adding something to the collection and I thrive on change!"

Shoppers can find something new every day of the week at Allie-Coosh and Martsolf pays special attention to providing trend, while also considering the needs of her sophisticated audience. This September was the 20 year anniversary of Allie-Coosh (the longest running ladies boutique in Snider Plaza) and she has many fashion shows ahead in 2014 to showcase the Allie Coosh every day and special occasion wear.

RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH PAULETTE MARTSOLF:

OSC:  What do you do when you need to relan and recharge?
PM:  Relaxation time is a glass of red wine while soaking in my hot tub. If I leave my home it is for a massage at Mokara Spa in the Omni (preferably the one on the Riverwalk in San Antonio) but Dallas works.

OSC:  What are 3 words that you feel best describe you?

PM:  Dedicated, passionate, driven

OSC:  What are your favorite Dallas eateries?

PM:  I love Tei Tei Robato Bar, Abacus and I am addicted to the Salmon Salad at Penne Pomodoro

OSC: What are your favorite places to who that are unique to Dallas?

PM:  Big Mango, Sequoia and Love Art Galleries

OSC: What is your favorite festival or event that happens in Dallas?

PM:  Cottonwood or the 500 Inc. Artfest. I love shopping for artful objects!

OSC:  Do you have a favorite local charity that you support?

PM:  I have supported many charities during my career. There are so many worthy causes in the community. I adore animals and have a soft spot for helping innocent creatures.

OSC:  What do you love about Dallas?

PM:  Dallas is a great city. We have wonderful affordable housing. There are amazing restaurants. The art scene is growing and exciting. Our climate is fabulous (of course I grew up with lots of rain, drizzle and fog so I really appreciate the weather). Great museums and plenty of entertainment……and shopping all over the place. What’s not to love!!!!!!!

Peruse Paulette's designs at http://www.allie-coosh.com and visit her Snider Plaza boutique at 6726 Snider Plaza, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-363-8616.