Bel Air Fashions is a 3rd generation, family-owned clothing business specializing in Men’s and Women’s Professional and Lifestyle Clothing. Their expertise is in interview, professional and business casual dress. Bel Air Fashions has helped many men and women get hired and move ahead in their careers by offering professional clothing that makes a compelling statement.
How did you get started in the business? – Since I was 6 years old I have always been around the clothing business, you could say I literally grew up in it. I was asked to join the family business after graduation from college. I graduated in May 1973 on a Saturday and was working full-time on the following Monday.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Two weeks after I started working a call came in requesting our store conduct a workshop on dress and appearance. I was selected to do the workshop. I did it, and realized if I was called to do more, I had a lot to learn in order to be proficient and know what I was talking about. Through the years, my brother and I have attended numerous seminars and post-certification programs to become experts in our business. When I first started we had manufacturers who wouldn’t sell us and retailers who didn’t want competitors. We rolled up our sleeves and dug in. Here we are 40 years later, thriving.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Writing my book, “Dress Like The Big Fish”®, which is based on my workshops. I had never written a book before, and it was like putting my toe in an ocean. Currently, the book is out in paperback and an ebook, available in 31+ formats.
Tell me a little about your family. – My wife and I will be celebrating 39 years of marriage, and we have three wonderful children. Our oldest, my daughter Ali and her husband, Mark, are both graduating residents this summer and fall. Our special joy is Ali and Mark’s 2 year old daughter, Havah, who knows how wrap her grandparents around her finger. My middle son, Brad, is an Industrial Engineer with an International Company in Chicago, and future daughter, Michelle just graduated with a Masters in Nursing. They are getting married late summer. Our youngest, Jon, is in Culinary Arts and Banquet here in Omaha. My wife is a retired Foreign Language Teacher with Omaha Public Schools.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – When I do take time off, it is out of town with my family at our timeshare in Mexico, walking along the Sea of Cortez surf, watching the wildlife and sharing time together.
What are you the most proud of? – Being recognized as Outstanding Northwest Rotarian a few years back, as I was able to share this special honor with family and friends who were in attendance.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “Just do the best and be the best that you can.”
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – Telepathy
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Screenwriter
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Blue Ocean Strategy
What is your favorite movie? – James Bond – You Only Live Twice
What is your favorite TV show? – Grey’s Anatomy
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Lo Sole Mio
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – By phone at (402) 493-5160, email at belairfashions@belair.omhcoxmail.com, or visit our website at www.belairfashions.com.