Independent lifestyle store Belle Modelle – to borrow a phrase – simply sparks joy. It’s a feelgood experience. Whether you visit their bricks and mortar store in Dorchester’s cool Brewery Square or take a look around their website, owner and designer Leila Gregory’s love of colour, pattern – and fun – can’t help but put you in a good mood.

If you’re fed up with the mass market but not quite ready to mortgage your home for a piece of haute couture, Belle Modelle offers limited edition separates and some fantastic accessories to cheer up your closet.

The womenswear is bright and colourful, easy-to-wear, and flattering for all shapes and sizes (hurrah!). We’re talking softly draped tops, knits, dresses, jumpsuits, palazzo pants and gorgeous kimonos, with footwear, bags and pretty jewellery to go with. Watch out for the trademark Belle Modelle star – you’ll see it all over the place.

Leila’s newly launched exclusive collection, Constellation (those stars again), is a super summery selection of women’s clothing carrying the same brand DNA of colour, comfortable fit and affordable quality, with versatile mix-and-match separates which can be worn separately or together.

Still wedded to office noir? As a first step into the riotous world of Belle Modelle, we recommend trying one of their scrumptious scarves. Available in an eye-watering range of colours and patterns, they will lift your spirits. You can never have enough.

The theme continues into their homewares and gifts range, with an eclectic range of colourful, fun stuff – glassware, candlesticks, cushions and mirrors, even doorknobs – to accessorise your home. There are beauty products – and beautiful bags to put them in. This is a place to come to buy gifts for others – and treat yourself.