A CONTEMPORARY women’s clothing and lifestyle store has launched in Hale, with a collection of clothing, accessories and homewares, each with an individual story to tell.

Basil & Bea is the first independent endeavour by fashion agent, Hari Martin.

The store stocks a range of luxurious brands, including Le Specs, Yolke, Johnstons of Elgin, Elizabeth & James and Mast chocolate, as well becoming the first UK distributor for Australian brand, Lack of Colour.

Owner, Hari Martin said: “The idea behind Basil & Bea was not just to sell clothes, but to offer a destination point in Greater Manchester that people would want to come and enjoy. We spent a great amount of time curating the collection and design of the shop and we couldn’t be happier with the finished article. Every item we stock has a unique story behind it; from the beautiful cashmere from Johnstons of Eglin that’s produced in Scotland from the same mill as it was in 1797, to the fragrances from Miller & Harris who sustainably source botanicals from across the globe."

The store held an exclusive launch event where guests indulged in vegan canapes and cocktails from The Garden, Hale, while enjoying live music from a contemporary saxophonist. There was also an exclusive raffle, offering prizes in the form of Basil & Bea vouchers, beauty treatments from local businesses, Grace and Perfection, Miller & Harris perfume and a voucher for The Garden, raising hundreds of pounds for the Manchester Families fund.

Mr Martin said: “The launch event provided us with the perfect opportunity to showcase everything that we’re about here at Basil & Bea and we absolutely loved hearing everyone’s kind comments. With new brands landing in a few months, we can’t wait to continue telling our story.”

Basil & Bea’s store can be found on 30 Park Road, Hale. For more information, visit their Instagram page @basilandbea.