Phoenix Store models 'show who they really are'

The Phoenix Store in Dingmans Ferry is mostly hidden behind magnificent foliage, which provides privacy from the traffic on Route 209. The store is a magical place, selling unique crafts, jewelry, some furniture, and clothing mainly from the southwest and Mexico, but also from other parts of the globe.

The store is owned by Doug Cosh and Terry Talent, who are beloved by the community. Twice a year they put on a fashion show, one in the spring and one in the fall. It is a free event, and everyone is invited.

The Phoenix Fall Fashion Show on Sept. 29 was attended by about 100 devoted fans. There were some edibles and wine, beer, and cheese, but the models were the main attraction. They come in all shapes, sizes, ages, genders, and proclivities.

“We do this for a combination of reasons," said Cosh. "We have very diversified friends who can feel comfortable getting out there and showing who they really are, and we have one-of-a-kind clothing as unique as they are to put it all together.”

There is a special runway just for the models, who get to choose whatever they want to wear from the clothing at the shop. One never knows what’s going to happen. Cosh scours the world to find distinctive fabrics and styles, so the models have fun things to choose from.

The audience is totally supportive. It's a fun afternoon, and the mood is kitsch. Cosh and Talent’s very good friend Julia Schmitt Healy is a superb mistress of ceremonies. Healy and Cosh are like brother and sister, sharing many of the same sensibilities and their sense of humor. She has been doing this show since it began four years ago.

Healy is an artist and a writer who often writes for the Milford Journal. Her wit is sharp and quick as she ad-libs what is happening on the runway. She keeps the show moving, and the audience loves it.

She reminds us that all of the clothing is for sale. It’s one-of-a-kind fashion in a one-of-a-kind show that everyone hopes will go on for many more years to come.