Out of the Closet

Lurking somewhere between the rugged peaks of the Wasatch and the semi-sophisticated night life of Park City, there are numerous costume enthusiasts waiting for any reason — or perhaps no reason — to flaunt their colorful and creative threads. Who are these people and what are they doing with trunk load after trunk load of boas, platform shoes, fake eyelashes and cat suits?

Ask Pamela Dore Alford about her favorite holiday, and she’ll tell you there’s only one that matters: Halloween. Alford is the “go to girl” for most of her friends when there’s a reason to dress up. The popular event planner has more than 15 bins of outlandish dress-up wear. “I would have no problem wearing a costume every day of the week in Park City,” she says. “There is diversity here and it’s refreshing to be part of it on some level.”

Ron Butkovich’s Old Town basement is a treasure trove of costumes. The walls are lined with dresses, suits, skirts, slips (there are full and half slips in every color) and the floors are stacked with boxes of accessories. “I have four boxes of purses for God’s sake,” he says with a laugh. Butkovich believes every person should have at least a small collection of costumes. His seems to grow by the day (he made four acquisitions during the time of this interview). “They are all my favorite things,” explains Butkovich. “That’s why it’s impossible to get rid of anything.”

Afraid to let loose? Listen to costume veteran Mary Potts: “Don’t take yourself too seriously,” she tells the first-timer. “It’s good to have the basics: a believable wig, great sunglasses and a boa is a solid start.” Potts is a professional when it comes to looking fabulous and creative. She’s been dressing up since she was 5. Her favorite costume then (Little Orphan Annie) has evolved into a Vegas showgirl’s outfit, complete with a headdress and matching boa. “I acquired it in Vegas, and whenever I wear it there I never pay for drinks or show tickets.” Ah, the benefits of playing dress up!

Dayla Secret Kuehn is not even a year old yet, but she already has 30 costumes. Her parents, Kimberly and Jeff — are known costume-enthusiasts in Park City and like to dress her up for any celebrations or even daycare. “I know that costumes will bring Dayla fun and joy,” says her mother Kimberly. “It will also help teach her that there are no limits on what she can do.”