Woman Opens 'Dream' Fashion Shop In Rockville Centre

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY — A Freeport woman is using her fashion sense to create her first brick-and-mortar clothing boutique.

Patrice Fernandez had been operating her business from home for 17 years, mainly for online customers.

But, Fernandez decided the time was right to splash into the in-person pool. After she searched for the best location, "Stoosh Boutique" was born on North Park Avenue in Rockville Centre.

As for the name, Fernandez, who moved here in 2001, explains it's tied to her Jamaican roots.

"It has two meanings. It has an uppity meaning, but the meaning that I used was style, sophisticated and successful," she told Patch. "So, that's what I want my clients to be."

While she works with different designers in her shop, Fernandez said her expertise as an image consultant helps customers (women and men) piece together the winning ensemble.

Despite her online options for clients, Fernandez wanted more, and that meant opening a business under lock and key.

"It's been a dream for about five years," she said. "It's been something I've been praying about, manifesting, desiring."

She learned about the space in Rockville Centre, busy with foot traffic near the LIRR station. The village was on her wishlist.

"I just love the area," Fernandez said. "I love the vibe."

Fernandez initially checked her hometown, but Freeport didn't work out for her.

"I'm glad it didn't because this is much better," she said.

She specializes in clothing, accessories, jewelry and handbags but said "Stoosh" is not just about making a sale.

"There are sometimes I tell a client, 'This doesn't work for you,'" Fernandez said. "It's about making sure they are projecting their best self at all times."

Fernandez, a Fashion Institute of Technology graduate, opened the store at the end of August. It was a "soft launch," with the official ribbon cutting last week, followed by the grand opening.

Although she would like to eventually bring Stoosh to another location, Fernandez said she'd prefer to expand the Stoosh brand.

"What I would really love to have is a Stoosh Girls for ages 2-10," she said about her mind toward the future.