HAMPTON -- There's a new shop in town, and the word is spreading fast. Delia's Unique Clothing, located at 838 Lafayette Road, is just what shoppers "in the know" have been waiting for.

Billed as a "unique specialty shop for women," Delia's offers the latest fashions, with a complete run of sizes in separates, fitted tops, dress slacks, and slip dresses perfect for summer or that get-away vacation. And, let's not forget that "little black dress" — Delia's has many of them.

Owner Delia Kerley of North Hampton has seen a dream of many years finally come to life with the re-cent opening of her business. After being open just two weeks, business at Delia's has been brisk simply due to word-of-mouth.

Kerley's degree in retail management and her decade of determination and research immediately come into play as shoppers reap the benefits of her knowledge. Offering styles from such lines as BCBG, Parallel, Betsy Johnson, Steffi Dobrindt and Susana Monaco, Kerley's constant perusal of publications such as In Style magazine helped her make her decisions about styles and designers. Then, it was off to New York City to visit showrooms and attend trade shows which, Kerley says, was a "pleasant surprise, and a great learning experience," as sales reps in every line offered assistance in which styles are more suitable for certain areas.

From the French Connection line to Central Park West cashmere, Delia's also offers original pieces from Los Angeles designers. Shoppers are ex-cited about new fabrics available to them at this unique boutique, such as washable silks, stretch lycras and stretch linens.

Once shoppers step through the entrance under the shop's boutique-like awning, a sense of French country atmosphere prevails. Downstairs, the newly refinished wide-pine floors are a perfect backdrop for the distressed-painted furniture set upon the needlepoint and hook rugs. The antique wrought iron oil lamp holders adorning the walls complement the antique lampstands, creating an effect both intriguing and cozy.

After taking in the many displays of fine clothing on the first level, a trip upstairs brings shoppers to yet an-other elegant room, surprisingly spacious, with a comfortable loveseat in an area complete with magazine-laden tables for even more fashion ideas. Here once again are more clothing choices, and four of the largest dressing rooms a shopper could ever want. With soft music playing in the background, the mood is relaxed, and the shopping is easy.

Once the outfits have been selected, accessories abound, from an impressive array of antique jewelry to straw hats with matching bags. And for that "perfect little something" gift idea, selections include miniature picture frames and trinket boxes, not to mention a selection of framed water colors by local artist Doris Rice presently gracing the walls.

With husband, Don, and daughters Jill and Kim assisting her in this new venture, Kerley has set March 4 as the date for the shop's grand opening. Delia's winter hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with added evening hours on Thursday until 8 p.m. Delia Kerley may be reached at the shop by calling 926-6008.