The Clothes Horse, an upscale women's apparel and accessories boutique, celebrated its grand opening March 8 at the Fresh Market Shopping Center, in Southern Pines - again.

The Clothes Horse is now open in its original location, after closing last fall.

Owner Kelly Ward closed the store, after more than 16 years in business, to prepare for the birth of her daughter, Lily Elizabeth, now 3 months old. Ward, at the urging of friends, customers and staff members, decided it was time to reopen the business.

Paula Brown, Ward's longtime friend, "firsthand" and partner, will be managing the day-to-day operation, as Ward splits time at home with Lily and the store. Linda Allen and Nancy Hussey round out the staff.

Customers were treated to refreshments and registered for door prizes to be given out throughout the weekend of the grand opening.

The Clothes Horse has undergone a major transformation, boasting rich red walls, lush animal print accents and gleaming marble-painted concrete floors, juxtaposed against sparkling chandeliers and large-scale prints of Hollywood screen legends.

"The decor of the store is simply stunning!" a longtime customer said. "They have done a fantastic job and the fashion is spot-on."

Although there are lots of changes to the look of the store, The Clothes Horse will offer most of the same great brands its customers have come to love over the years.

The store will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays, The Fresh Market shopping center at 163 Beverly Lane in Southern Pines. The phone number is (910) 693-2111.