Style Boutique

Style Boutique

For all girls who love dressing up, which could be everyone from tiny tots to fans of “Sex & the City”. This is seriously addictive, mark our words.

Although Style Boutique may not break all records in the way that Nintendogs and Brain Training has done for DS, it could become as classic as a little black dress or indeed red stilettos as seen on the box.

The appeal is simple for anyone who loves dressing themselves or choosing outfits for friends. As the owner of a fledgling Style Boutique you are tasked with co-ordinating simple outfits for a steady flow of customers. You do the best that you can with the initial puny wardrobe. As your eye improves, and you become adept at managing the stock flow of more popular items, custom improves and you’ll have chance to expand. Your knack for accessorising and brand matching can earn credibility on the Catwalk too, in fashion contests themed around Punk Chic, Denim, and so on.

One of the most compelling ideas is that your weekly schedule adheres to the real world calendar. Executive items only appear on certain days, for example, and you won’t want to miss these. You’ll visit exhibitions to browse the latest fashions, but must wait for items to arrive after placing orders. If you’re out of stock, you’ll need to wait until after the weekend to replenish (perhaps now we might be more understanding the next time a shop assistant says ‘We hope to have these back in on Monday’… perhaps not).

There are some cute gameplay conventions, such as figuring out what kind of look a customer desires based on clues to their likes and dislikes. Dressing mannequins is a fun pastime in itself, and you’ll feel quite clever for attracting more customers from a knock-out window display. Just be careful the crowds don’t leave disappointed! When business is good you can spread the word by creating your own flyers, using a simple design tool. Even grown-up gamers will feel the excitement of waiting for enquiries to pour in. And when you’re ready to become world renowned there’s an online Community Emporium in which it’s possible to open your own branch shop.

Only one thing we couldn’t abide in Style Boutique, but this was easily solved. The music is just rotten, but can be turned off in the options. Phew.

80s throwback disco muzak aside Style Boutique is magnifique.

4 out of 5