Local entrepreneur, designer and creative powerhouse Paulina Petkoski shares why she loves Paris Hilton, lavender lattes, Duly’s Coney Island and so much more in 20 Questions.
1. Tell us about what are you wearing? I’m wearing an Alexis dress, Manolo Blahnik suede booties, vintage rhinestone choker, and a vintage “D” ring.
SHOP HER LOOK: Alexis shoulderless flared cuff dress, shop similar choker – Alexis Bittar Crystal-Encrusted Spiked Choker, shop similar booties – SCHUTZ Ginny Suede High Heel Booties
2. So what is Playground Detroit all about? PLAYGROUND DETROIT was established in 2012 to develop professional connections and networking opportunities between both Detroit and New York City, to create a stronger community and creative economy for working artists.
Storefront of Playground Detroit. Photo courtesy of Playground Detroit
3. Who inspires you in the business world? I love Sir Richard Branson, Oprah, and Stella McCartney. Imran Amed, the founder of The Business of Fashion is really a game changer for the industry. To be honest, Paris Hilton and Nicki Minaj are mega-moguls in my opinion that don’t get enough serious credit- they’ve built empires on leaning into themselves and being strong, independent fearless women.
4. What does your average day look like? I have no average days- every day is so different, which can sometimes be a blessing and a curse. It is one of the things I do like about being an entrepreneur and being self-employed, but there are also times when it’s exhausting and a consistent routine is something I dream about. I could never go back to an office job, which I held for over three years in New York City. Running a small business while balancing my various freelance jobs takes me all over the city, suburbs, downtown and everywhere in between. Sometimes I’m discussing upcoming projects with potential clients for coffee or dinner, or someone’s closet doing a wardrobe edit or personal shopping trip. I am often planning details for events and exhibitions or discussing ideas with artists and musicians, and executing logistics and planning for special projects. There is a lot of time spent on small details and running errands. I am often asked to participate in various panel discussions and regularly attend networking events to learn or celebrate the great things happening in Detroit.
An art installation at Playground Detroit. Photo courtesy of Playground Detroit
5. What do you love most about your community? I am constantly inspired being surrounded by others that are creatively talented and also very driven to make an impact on the city. There is a lot of love and support that flows between many young adults collaborating on projects together. I have had the opportunity to work on a wide range of creative projects from music videos to fashion editorials, to event planning.
Various art on display at Playground Detroit. Photo courtesy of Playground Detroit
6. When not working we can find you… Working….! I wish it were a joke. I attend a lot of events throughout the week and weekend- most of the photos in my phone are from music shows and art exhibitions. I also try to find time to meditate regularly and of course, getting in my beauty sleep. My bed is my favorite thing.
7. Where do you enjoy grabbing a quick coffee? I love Lavender Lattes from either Great Lakes Coffee or Red Hook Coffee. I just tried the Marshmallow Latte from New Order Coffee but definitely, don’t want to make that a habit.
Photo courtesy of New Order Coffee
8. Your go-to for lunch or dinner? I like to grab a salad at while I’m on the go at Seven Greens downtown or love Royal Kabob in Hamtramck. I love Clique diner the morning after a good night out. For dinner, I like Takoi or Standby with friends.
9. Where do you like to shop? I have really reduced my consumption habits, especially after moving back to Detroit. I LOVE shopping at Value World and thrift stores, finding vintage treasures is my favorite hobby. Boro Resale & Consignment is a great new spot to shop at- I even sell my own items and vintage there as well. El Dorado General Store is an awesome vintage boutique in Corktown, and Detroit Is New The Black always has well-curated items; it’s nice being friends with these lovely ladies who operate these stores! TENDER and Found Objects in Birmingham are great places to find seasonal pieces and designer brands locally.
Photo courtesy of Boro Resale
10. One place you think everyone must check out when visiting Detroit? I’m going to go with Duly’s Coney Island in Southwest Detroit, it’s a classic late-night spot that’s still old-school, authentic and cheap!
11. What do you love most about the holiday season? Having so many parties to dress up for, of course! And the hot toddies- I’m obsessed with them in the cold months.
13. Three words to describe your style? Rock n’ roll / edgy / contemporary
14. One item you can’t leave home without… My black leather jacket (any one of them…)
Acne Studios Mock leather jacket
15. You’re never fully dressed without …? Your smile and a killer pair of shoes.
16. Your “must have” items for fall/winter 2018? Suede or velvet accessories. Emerald green is my favorite color at the moment.
17. Who is your style icon? Chloe Sevigny, Rihanna, Kate Young, and the Olsen Twins
18. Who or what inspires your style?I’m inspired by the items I encounter when I’m thrifting. I don’t look at too many runway shows anymore, but I’m always inspired by brands/designers that include Saint Laurent, Stella McCartney, Gucci under new creative director Alessandro Michele, Maison Margiela, Reformation, Acne Studios, Discount Universe…
19. On your gift list this holiday season? A leather jacket from The Arrivals, a new Shinola watch band, and ticket to see Lady Gaga’s upcoming tour!
20. Favorite quote or words to live by? “I believe in excess…” Jim Morrison
You can follow Playground Detroit on Instagram at @playdetroit to stay in the loop on all things creative, or visit their website playgrounddetroit.com