Oct. 30--Two women's clothing boutiques are forging ahead into less-traveled retail markets, far from the well-worn shopping path of King Street.

Wink has opened in West Ashley at 829-A Savannah Highway. The storefront was formerly occupied by Sublime Pies & Cakes, which relocated to North Charleston this year.

The 800-square-foot shop is stocked with apparel and accessories. Find bags and wallets from the Funky J line, made by West Ashley resident Staci Funk.

Owner Errica Watkins choose to open her boutique over the bridge because she said the area's cluster of small businesses, like Poe and the Lava Salon, have a lot of character.

"I thought my store would fit right in," said Watkins. "I wanted to open a downtown-style boutique with friendly prices."

All items in the store sell for under $110.

Over on Daniel Island, Megan Berrard next week is set to unveil her new boutique, Thera M. The storefront is at 194 Seven Farms Drive. Berrard has stocked her shop with a mix of casual apparel and cocktail attire from upscale designers. She described the fashions as feminine and elegant.

Berrard said she's thrilled to be among one of the first high-end retail clothing ventures on Daniel Island.

"Downtown is pretty saturated with boutiques, so I couldn't stand out as much," Berrard said. "I chose Daniel Island because it's a new community with a lot of room to grow, and I can grow with it."

RETAIL RADAR

--NICE ICE: The frozen-treat chain Rita's Italian Ice is opening in Summerville at 9770 Dorchester Road. On Sunday from 1- 3 p.m. the store will celebrate its grand opening by handing out free cups of Italian ice.

--CASTING OFF: The Charleston Angler will open its third tackle shop Friday at 2139 N. Main St. in Summerville. Fishing aficionados will find rods, reels, lures and apparel.

--CHANGING COURSES: The Red Pepper Italian Eatery has announced a new executive chef, Dominick Gallo. The restaurant also revamped its menu.

All items are now priced under $20, with kids meals less than $5 a pop. The Red Pepper has two locations, in Mount Pleasant at 1960 Riviera Drive and in Summerville at 709 N. Main St.

Reach Bridget Herman at 937-5582 or bherman@postandcourier.com.

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