A BOLTON woman who wants to share her fashion dream with other local females has opened her own boutique in Horwich.

Leitha Mantel, known to all as Mantel, launched Matmara, situated on the corner of Chorley New Road and opposite St Joseph’s High School, after starting her own small business from home.

The mother of two, who is a trained teacher, named the business after her children, Matthew and Mara. And the small shop is packed with a combination of her own stunning designs and high-end fashion names.

“I came from poor beginnings,” she explained, “but I always loved beautiful things and really wanted other people to share that.”

Mantel trained in fashion in London and began creating styles for clients herself. “I really enjoy seeing women – especially mature women – looking tastefully attractive,” she said.

“It’s very rewarding to know that they look their best and feel confident because of what they’re wearing.”

After beginning her business at home, she branched out into pop-up shops in The Triangle in Manchester city centre and in Withington before opening Matmara closer to home.

As well as her own designs, which can be bespoke for individual clients, she also sells a variety of exclusive jewellery, and shoes from designers including Ted Baker. “But I am planning a range of my own Matmara shoes to be launched next year,” she added.

In order to underline the personalised nature of her service and to allow women to feel pampered when they shop, she is able to book in clients for individual appointments. “This means I can devote time to helping each one of them, and ensure they have just the right outfit,” she said.

Her range includes prom dresses, wedding outfits and ball gowns as well as dazzling cocktail dresses and chic tops.

Mantel’s bespoke designer service means styles can be adapted or created individually, all brought to reality by a seamstress in Altrincham.

She is now officially launching the boutique at a fashion event on Monday, December 5 at Bolton Whites Hotel. Tickets at £19.99 are available by calling 01204 694359 or emailing launch@matmara.com