“EVERY WOMAN SHOULD FEEL HEALTHY AND HOT WHEN LOOKING IN THE MIRROR”
By Srishti Sharma
In the fast-paced universe of style, Heather Bolt stands out by creating Dotty, a brand that breaks free from the norm. Instead of chasing passing trends, Dotty focuses on crafting enduring pieces that resonate with the lives of everyday women. Reflecting on her journey, Bolt shares, "I always knew fashion was my goal and ultimate calling. I went to University to study law, but one of my classmates pointed out my knack for fashion, giving me the validation I needed. From that point on, there was no looking back." In an exclusive interview with Bolt, we take a closer look at her journey, the sources that fuel her creativity, and the core philosophy that defines her brand.
Heather Bolt, Photo Credit: Kristy Boyce Photography
Bolt, a 53-year-old wife and mother of three, identified a gap in the market that resonated with her personal struggles. The quest for clothing that flatters the female form, especially for women in their 40s to 60s, led her to embark on the Dotty journey. With a background in the wholesale fashion industry, Bolt utilized her contacts in Toronto and her knack for design to kickstart her venture.
The initial focus on tunics, inspired by the need for comfortable and stylish wear, quickly gained traction. Bolt's Dotty parties became a hit, offering a unique and personalized shopping experience. However, it was the onset of the pandemic that highlighted the demand for casual, stay-at-home professional attire, propelling her wrap dresses into the spotlight.
Credit: @panolegus at Startup Fashion Week
Bolt's design philosophy revolves around flattering the female form while accommodating the diverse body types of her clientele. Her inspiration stems from a love of colour and prints and each piece is custom-tailored with careful consideration for what she herself would wear or what her clients desire.
The versatility of Dotty's collection is a key selling point. Bolt intentionally creates pieces that transcend trends, ensuring that her clothing remains relevant for everyday wear – truly timeless pieces that defy the ephemerality of fashion. She says, “I make clothes that can go with anything. The special thing about Dotty is that my designs don't follow short-lived trends. They're like your favourite tunes, always in style. Whether it's the popular tunics or the well-known baseball tees, you can dress them up or down. They look good on everyone and that's what makes Dotty special—simple, timeless, and for everyday moments.”
Looking ahead, Bolt has set her sights on expansion, with recent ventures into the US market. Her loyal clientele, or "Dotty Darlings" as she affectionately calls them, own numerous pieces each, a testament to the brand's enduring appeal. Bolt hopes to grow this base, extending the reach of Dotty to serve even more women.
Her journey from a law student to a successful fashion entrepreneur is a testament to following one's passion. She emphasizes the importance of understanding your customers and finding a niche, a philosophy reflected in her mantra: “every woman should feel healthy and hot when looking in the mirror”.
Credit: @asianwithcamera at Startup Fashion Week
Bolt’s dedication to sustainability sets Dotty apart. From using compostable bags to shipping in sustainable packaging and employing ethical practices in her Toronto-based factory, Bolt ensures that Dotty aligns with environmentally conscious values.
Bolt's business acumen is rooted in a balance of creativity and financial planning. She advises aspiring businesswomen to find their niche, understand their customers, and prioritize financial planning and goal-setting.
As the brand continues to grow, it remains committed to creating stylish, versatile, and timeless pieces that stand the test of both fashion and time.
Cover Photo Credit: Sylvi Oja