GLAM and glitzy were words used to describe the new Monsoon boutique that has opened in Basingstoke's Festival Place.

The new-look store is the first in the country to adopt the boutique concept, which is designed to make shopping more accessible to its customers.

Basingstoke's Bride of Hampshire 2004, Louise Wilson, 30, of Lower Brook Street, Basingstoke, cut the ribbon and officially opened the revamped premises last Thursday, and shoppers were treated to complimentary chocolates and bucks fizz to celebrate the transformation.

Sarah Hayward, manager at the Basingstoke branch, said: "We are very much looking forward to customers enjoying a gorgeous new shop in which to select items from our fabulous autumn/winter collection.

"We have already doubled our trade with the new glam and glitzy surroundings."

Jane Stewart, marketing manager at Festival Place, said: "The new concept store is a welcome addition to Festival Place's existing women's fashion on offer."

"This is a welcome boost for female shoppers at Hampshire's flagship regional shopping centre."

The boutique concept has been created to reflect the lifestyle and ethos of the Monsoon brand.

It is hoped that the Basingstoke branch will lead to a succession of new boutique stores across the country.

A businesswoman from Berkshire chose Festival Place as the location for her new hair studio and shop.

Emma Ridpath, managing director of Shear Beauty, said: "Festival Place is currently one of the most impressive shopping centres in the UK.

"It was the perfect choice for our studio, as it embraces the shopping and leisure experience.

"With a number of fashion retailers and a wealth of bars and restaurants, the Shear Beauty concept is a natural complement to the area."

As the first of its kind on the high street, Shear Beauty hair studio and shop is a beauty haven which includes a nail bar and even offers its customers a complimentary cup of Starbucks Coffee.

The shop sells an extensive range of top-salon brands and Basingstoke could be the launchpad for more Shear Beauty outlets on the high street.

And it doesn't just sell products for women to pamper themselves with, as there is also a wide range of men's grooming preparations as well.

Shear Beauty is headed up by store manager Helen Foley, with stylists Marie Hunter, Debbie Grant and Kim Smith, along with nail technician Jay Bowden.