A WOMENSWEAR store has launched in the Hardshaw Centre.

Lavitta opened the doors to its third shop on Thursday morning (April 7).

People will be able to shop from the new SS16 collections such as ‘Moroccan Nights’ and ‘Jungle Safari’ as well as a range of affordable basics and this season must-haves.

"When we looked at St Helens we feel it is beginning to turn around and there's a lot of things happening that are very positive and we think it's a great time to be opening here," said retail director Ian Williams.

"We're an Internet business and we have got ourselves a lot of data about where our customers are and St Helens is highly represented in our existing customers.

"Our target customer is a lady who is more mature but still wants an element of that fashionability and wants to look stylish."

The 3,500 square-feet store has created seven jobs initially, with further vacancies potentially in future.

Lavitta was launched 2015 aiming to offer fashionable wardrobe solutions for the "real woman" with pieces designed to fit and flatter ladies in sizes 12 to 24, prices ranging from £10 to £45.

With stores already in Leeds and Grimsby, Lavitta have plans to open further shops across the country this year.

Ian added: "We're very excited and I' am absolutely confident it will be a successful venture."

More information on Lavitta is at www.lavitta.co.uk