The Flying Pig has landed at a new downtown location in Dolores and is open for business.

A freshly remodeled historic building at 501 Central Ave. is the new home of the popular clothing and apparel emporium.

The inviting and warm space features aspen paneling, dressing rooms, a customer bathroom, and the original tin-pressed ceilings from when it was the JJ Harris Bank in the early 1900s. And it smells great - a combination of aspen wood with a hint of lavender incense.

Well-organized racks of quality clothing fill the 1,100 square-foot floor space, and custom-designed wall displays, with mirrors tucked here and there, give the store a comfortable boutique feel.

Stylish arts, crafts and jewelry fill display cases throughout the shop, and unique items make browsing entertaining.

"We have great variety, some higher-end items, and affordable prices," said Sheila Wheeler, one of the partners. "We really love our new space in the heart of historic Dolores."

The Flying Pig was the genesis of the late Evie Bardeen, a well-loved fashion diva who created the consignment emporium with family and friends to make a living, but also as a community gathering place.

And that welcoming tradition continues with owners Wheeler, Dorthea Fury, Gretchen Masters, and Marilyn Husby. For 18 years, locals and travelers have stopped in to check out the latest wares and interesting items of the store, which has had a few different locations over time.

"The fact that we are still here is proof that 'The Pig' is truly a Dolores icon, a local landmark," Wheeler said. "We really appreciate our customers and could not do this without our wonderful consignors who bring us such quality merchandise."

One hundred regular consignors bring in clothing and merchandise from all over the Southwest, and earn 35 percent of the sold item. To keep good selection, after a while stock is rotated to sale racks, making for some great deals, including $1-$2 shirts, shorts and skirts.

"We're community-built and really know our customers," Wheeler added. "When we see something that is totally you, we'll let you know on your next visit. It is really fun."

A grand-opening party to celebrate the new location of the Flying Pig is planned for the near future. Their hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to about 5 p.m. Phone: 970-882-7865