This lovely ladies-wear shop situated just five minutes or so from the Cross Gates arcade shopping…read morecentre. I discovered it on a recent outing to Cross Gates, having heard about the arcade here I decided to check it out. I had some time to wander around and so stumbled across this little store. As soon as I wandered in I realised that the clothes weren't particularly suited to me, but this isn't a criticism. It's just that the fashion inside is very much suited to a more mature lady. They had some lovely dresses and jackets to make up the perfect 'mother-of-the-bride' style outfits, all priced in the region of £150, and lots of accessories. They had some Radley bags, lovely knit cardigans, little shrugs, vintage rose style clutch purses and much more! There was even a very reasonable £10 and under sale rack which had quite a lot of items on it. One of the best bits about this lovely shop however is the welcome. As soon as I wandered in the two ladies who were serving greeted me with some really friendly banter - one of the ladies asked me about my camera which was hanging from my neck. She asked me what I liked to photograph and so I told her I liked taking portraits, to which she responded - "I've a friend who likes photographing the ups vans." I smiled, not knowing what 'ups' was, and she explained - "You know, the parcel delivery guys - ups vans!" I smiled, getting it and said, "Oh! You mean the UPS vans! I see. How strange!" She agreed with the classic - "Well, you know what they say, there's nowt as queer as folk!" And we had a right laugh about her friend and her ups/UPS obsession. They didn't once go for any kind of hard sell, it was completely relaxed and friendly, and a totally lovely experience. I didn't buy anything, of course, but I shall certainly be recommending it to any friends/colleagues who are in need of something nice and occasional. Lovely!

I 1st visited Joans's last year, when searching for an outfit for a special party. Although I…read morefound many of the items in the shop over my budget, I managed to find 1 dress which was reduced to just £20. I am very conscious about my 'slightly larger' size so didn't feel too confident about buying however, both my sister who was with me at the time & the assistant commented it really suited me. I bought the dress (a very ritzy style) as I love glamourous dressing!. at the party I received so many positive comments on how amazing I looked. That was the 1st time for years I have worn a dress so 'thank you' Joan's for boosting my confidence. It will now be my regular shop when I am in need of a special outfit. I have actually seen another dress there this week, for a very bargain price of £10!!! I am aiming to go back for it.

Denise is an absolutely wonderful lady. She has always been the most helpful person when we have…read morebeen buying dance uniforms and shoes for my daughter and two nieces. Pointe shoe appointments with her are always so relaxed but utterly professional. Recently, Denise has offered us the most extraordinary kindness when we needed pointe shoes for my youngest niece just after the sudden death of my brother-in-law. Denise, thank you from the bottom of our hearts We always recommend Fancy Pants anyway but will definitely spread the word that your lovely shop is the place to go for all dancing needs! I hope people realise you are a true gem. Thank you

Something very unusual, I stepped inside expected a fancy dress shop and was met by a densely…read morepacked costume shop. Established by the ex-principle of the performing arts college to supply the students with theatrical garments you can get anything you need for buy and hire. From moustaches, hats and boots to all kinds of dance shoes, outfits for training and/or performances to simple leg warmers. Everything a dancer needs is in this little shop. Along side this is a wonderful shop owner who is really chatty and has a massive yet adorable dog. He is a special breed to it is safe to enter if you are allergic to dog hair.

I purchased my wedding dress from Broughton's Bridals and I have to say Sam, the lady who owns the…read moreshop with her husband, is one of the nicest people ever and made me feel so at ease whilst trying to find my perfect dress. She really really knows her stuff and is brilliant at it, she knows exactly what suits you and picks out the most stunning dresses which she thinks will suit your shape. She gives you her full attention when you're in the shop and is so lovely and friendly you'll instantly feel like she's your new best friend! She's not had this shop for long but I know business is already booming so if you're on the hunt for your wedding dress make sure you pop into see Sam and her hubby.

Sam & Lauren were both friendly and helpful in my search for my perfect bridal gown. I tried on…read moreabout 20 dresses across 5 boutiques and kept being drawn back to this one. Lauren made my first dress shopping experience an enjoyable one and Sam was instrumental in helping me choose the right dress for me. Thanks both. I look forward to the fittings when the dress arrives.

Matalan is situated at the top of the hill in Halton. The parking is always easy and there are lots…read moreof things set out nicely. I always want to have a good look as soon as I go in at the jewellery, shoes and handbags then to the children's clothes which were on offer today at a reduced price. I then look at women's clothes, and try them on usually, 4 items maximum, then to the mens and househols gifts. There were some great unusual Christmas decorations and I bought a snowman draught excluder which looks great. The only drawback I find with this store is the number of tills open and you always have to queue quite a while before you can buy your goods. The staff on the till are always helpful and friendly, it is just that you have to wait. I will go back again as soon as possible for some more Christmas presents!

Great For The Sales And For Kids Clothes Thanksread more