Women in Business

Hats, fascinators, clothes, sandals and handbags

Proud to be one of an increasing number of independent business owners in Bromsgrove town centre is Lesley Ashworth.

Lesley, who also has stores in Evesham and Solihull, took time out of her busy schedule to chat to Completely Bromsgrove about her business background, her passion for providing high quality and distinctive clothing and excellent customer service and what continues to drive her.

After many years of working in operations, Lesley was keen to make a change and started looking for businesses to buy in the West Midlands.

“It was by accident and not part of a plan,” she admitted.

“My first shop in Evesham was an existing business which I redeveloped and grew. I had a vision for Bromsgrove - the right opportunity arrived so I seized it.”

Lesley Ashworth Accessories opened at 65 High Street in October 2005 and initially sold designer handbags before diversifying into footwear, jewellery, hats and fascinators and occasion and casual clothing.

Also available are gloves, scarves, purses and wallets and a myriad of gift ideas.

Putting the customer first has always been at the heart of Lesley’s business ethos and she is ably supported by her friendly and knowledgeable Bromsgrove sales team Ann and Jackie.

All visitors to the store – whether they are loyal customers or new faces – are greeted with a warm welcome and a smile.

Everyone is encouraged to take as much time as they like to browse and to try on as many outfits to ensure they will be truly happy with their purchases.

“We believe in making people feel comfortable, creating the right environment and building a rapport,” said Lesley.

“Large chain stores – and clothing companies that operate solely on the internet - don’t provide that bespoke and personal shopping experience.

“We pride ourselves on bringing warmth into customers’ lives. We’re always generous with our advice as we want them to feel amazing and look wonderful, whatever the purpose of their new outfit.”

The team can advise on styles for special occasions, compile wish lists for birthdays and Christmas, help with colour matching of accessories to create the whole look and are happy to try to source items if people bring in photos of what they’re looking for.

“We’re also in the business of creating special memories,” added Lesley.

Lesley hand-picks items to suit every season and the recent warm and dry weather offers the perfect opportunity to wear items from the summer collection including beautiful floral printed dresses, lightweight jumpers, comfortable trainers and smart sandals.

All retailers know that they must stay ahead of the game to remain successful and, although they have a devoted customer base, Lesley’s stores are no exception.

“You have to evolve – if you don’t you get left behind,” she said.

“We’ve listened to our customers, who would like more clothing in store and that’s what we’ll be offering.”

Lesley Ashworth Accessories is closed at present but anyone wishing to order items can do so via www. lesleyashworth.co.uk or the Facebook page Lesley Ashworth Accessories. Postage is free during the lockdown.