Spring cleaning isn’t just for houses. Most women feel the need to spruce up their wardrobes as well when the weather turns balmy. Maybe it’s the psychological effect of shedding the heavy layers that cocoon us in the winter that makes us all yearn to be butterflies by sporting bright colors, gossamer fabrics and a bit of sparkle. Whatever the reason, a new boutique has just opened in ARTworks at Beaufort Town Center which will satisfy those cravings for something fun and frilly.

Run by three very elegant women of color, the boutique is actually a collective, comprised of Ngome (Pronounced “En-Go-May”) Enterprises, The Stylist Café, and Mahoganee’s Vintage Pieces. This well-curated mix of vintage and modern fashion and jewelry, draws from a range of cultures and eras. The partners are Donellia Chives, a young clothing and accessories designer; Mahoganee Amiger, a local songstress and fan of glamourous vintage style; and Cynthia Stewart, a former cosmetologist and self-described “fan of jewelry and feminine beauty since childhood”.

Donellia describes Ngome’s aesthetic as “contemporary Africana life and style, using exclusive African wax print fabrics.”  Her fashion line also includes handmade jewelry, that incorporates wood and also copper, which she says “is beneficial for detoxification, arthritis, and general health and healing.” In contrast to Donellia’s modern, ethnic style, Mahoganee offers vintage sequined and beaded tops, satin evening bags and other items which evoke Old Hollywood and the Jazz Age. Not to be outdone, the third partner, Cynthia’s Stylist Cafe, specializes in “statement jewelry”. These are big, bold and beautiful necklaces and earrings with true “wow factor”. Standout pieces include a vibrant red “bib” necklace made of feathers and crystal beads and an Egyptian style necklace with matching earrings.

To introduce the boutique to stylish ladies of Beaufort, the trio will be hosting a “Sip & Shop” event on Saturday, March 14th with a variety of hot and cold teas available for sampling starting at noon, and a “Royal Tea” Tea Party from 4 to 6pm with the additional offering of finger foods and homemade sweets. In addition to a social event and opportunity to preview the wares, special deals will be offered to shoppers throughout the afternoon.

If you go: The boutique is located inside ARTworks at 2127 Boundary St., Suite 18-A in the Beaufort Town Center shopping plaza. For more information, please call: 843-575-3725