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. Shelly Lerner is one of the two current owners of Bel Air Fashions.
Tell us a little about your business. – It is continually changing, but essentially we are a full-service Men’s and Women’s retail clothing store. We also offer tuxedo rental and sales, as well as footwear. Currently we are opening a new lifestyle department that will include weekend and outdoor wear.
How did you get started in the business? – I have grown up in retail, as I am the third generation in our business. My grandfather started it, and I have helped carry it on.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – No doubt about it my biggest professional challenge was my involvement in the business after my wife was diagnosed with cancer and when she passed away. It wounded me right down to my core and affected every single aspect of my life, including my career. I had to reach down deep and decide that I could get back at it. Trying to run a business and raise my children proved to be all that I could handle.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Surviving and thriving despite all of the downturns in the economy.
Tell us a little about your family. – I am remarried to a great lady. Between the both of us we have four children. We each also brought a dog to the marriage, and they get along quite well. We come from different backgrounds and both learn something new every day.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Coming back to my business after the battle and loss of my wife due to cancer. Without my brother, who is also my business partner, this would not have happened. It gave me a new perspective on life and approach to business.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – To get outside for a walk or take in a good movie.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – In business, if you’re not the lead dog the scenery doesn’t change.
If you could choose any one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Integrity
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – The power to heal.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – At this stage of my life I can’t think of a single one. I love working with our clientele that we have built relationships with over the years.
What is your favorite TV show? – Hawaii Five-0
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – The best way to reach me is by email at belairfashions@belair.omhcoxmail.com. You can also visit the Bel Air Fashions website at www.belairfashions.com.