Today we’d like to introduce you to Leora Kashani.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Leora. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up, my parents signed me up for every athletic activity they heard of in our area. From basketball and soccer, to gymnastics and even roller hockey. By the time I got to high school, I became a three-sport athlete and I literally lived in nothing but uniformed workout clothing. To portray our team’s cohesiveness, we wore all the same things by all the same brands. So when I was no longer playing competitively and joined a gym to get my daily dose of endorphins flowing, I had this new stylistic liberty of which I had no idea what to do with.
After a couple years of buying multiple pairs of basic sports bras, Capri leggings, and white t-shirts…yes COTTON T-SHIRTS, I looked in the mirror, took a glimpse at what I was wearing, and said, “Damn, this shit is ugly.” But to put it nicely, I noticed a lack of trend and style in women’s fitness clothing and was determined to add a splash of bold fashion sense while simultaneously keeping garments functional.
I envisioned a line that would not only incorporate fashion with fitness, but would reassure women in themselves and their beauty. Products that would induce consumers to radiate confidence and conquer their fitness goals. That passion to inspire a clean lifestyle and to encourage loving who you are, is what led me to name the brand BodyLOVEAthletica.
Body Love Athletica is unique and different in two respects: fashion and culture. Our customers satisfaction is achieved through appreciation for our designs and comfort, however, loyalty through our journey of growth is contributed to the sensation of positivity and confidence tethered to our brand and products.
Body Love is driven by fashion, engineered for comfort, and designed to inspire.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Definitely. I didn’t have much guidance in design, manufacturing or even selling as a matter of fact. I managed going to school and starting BLA at the same time, which was a really difficult balance.
Most people think the fashion life is a glamorous one: designing beautiful garments, attending cool shows, selling in your favorite stores. In reality, it is running around the world to accomplish one of the fifteen steps before your vision comes to life, dealing with multiple incorrect samples, doing everything to stay on deadlines, keeping up with all your day to day duties, hustling to get accounts, and figuring out what to do next to keep going.
I’ve dealt with all sorts of struggles. From dealing with manufacturing issues, communicating with non-English speakers during production, to finding different ways to be creative when you don’t have anything left in you.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Body Love Athletica – what should we know?
Body Love Athletica is an activewear and athleisure line. We are known for our excellent quality and comfort without comprising style. Since the beginning, the brand has been built around active living while looking great. I have designed the line making sure that fashion didn’t get in the way of function. With BLA, you can wear your fitness clothes, no matter where you’re going.
What sets us apart starts with my inspiration and leads into the design, colors, cuts, and feel of the fabric. I am inspired by everyday clothing. Seeing what women around me are wearing at brunch or a party has helped me decide what cuts and prints women would want to wear and be comfortable in. From lingerie to dresses, bottoms to jackets, I’ve mixed the style of every day clothes with activewear to create the perfect relationship in athleisure.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
A lot of people deserve credit. I’ve had so much support and mentors throughout the process. My dad has always pushed me to keep going and never seemed to worry about a failure or mistake.
Four years ago, I approached him with this wild idea, and he has been my #1 motivator, supporter, therapist, and everything in between.
His positive attitude, motivation, and passion for my success has been a constant push that has kept me going from day 1.
Along the way, I’ve had mentors from college, friends, and family who have helped me. Whether it has been advice or introducing me to others, these have all been crucial to my business. Talking to other entrepreneurs has been really valuable as well. Everything from listening to their struggles (realizing it’s not just you!) to learning and bouncing off new ideas from each other.
Contact Info:
- Address: 8501 Wilshire Blvd., #240
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
(Showroom by appointment) - Website: www.bodyloveathletica.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodyloveathletica/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bodyloveathletica
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/body-love-athletica-beverly-hills-2
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