Designed by women for women, Lola Tara was founded in 2015 with the intention of reinventing sophisticated and timeless pieces for the modern-day woman. For women of the world from all corners of the globe who are doing it all, whether corporately, in the home, or anywhere in between. The brand is for women who believe in passion, style, quality, and freedom.
The three A’s of the logo symbolise the strong female silhouettes represented by the founder and the key female figures in her life, her mother and sister. Through Lola Tara, we are all part of a tribe, one big family, the human race. Authentic, empowering, inspiring, and versatile, Lola Tara is about complementing the woman who wears it and giving her the added confidence she needs to rule her world.
We sat down with IB Oyerinde, the founder, to find out more.
What inspired you to start Lola Tara?
I have been lucky enough to experience the fashion industry from various angles. Seeing the transformation in aesthetics created in me a nostalgia for simple, clean, versatile yet elegant pieces that I want to reach for time and time again. I wanted to bring that back to women today.
What have you enjoyed the most about starting Lola Tara?
What I love the most is the ability to create. It lights up my spirit. From choosing the fabric to picking out buttons, I love every part of the process. Nothing makes me happier to see women wearing Lola Tara attire feeling empowered and beautiful.
What has been the biggest challenge of starting your company?
Running a business is difficult, especially in the fashion industry. Even though there is a lot of freedom for creativity there are still boundaries one must work within and it has been a challenge balancing the two. Also, competing with the large fashion house as an independent designer. Today, many people give priority to branding. However, I am targeting those that still appreciate classic elegance and craftsmanship.
What inspires you most in your work?
Travel, for sure. Architecture, food, people. I take all of it into account when creating my designs. Not only the curves and grooves, but the feeling. It’s about how I want women to feel when they wear Lola Tara.
What initially drew you to your industry of expertise?
Designing and clothes were always in my blood. I came out of the womb creating. It is in my DNA. It wasn’t a path that I was encouraged to follow as a child but you always find your way back to what’s meant to be.
How does your background bring a unique perspective to your work?
Having modelled definitely gives me a perspective on how important the comfort of clothing is and the emotional connection that we have to what we wear. Studying business marketing allowed me to further delve into the business side and psychological side of fashion and what we spend our money on and why. Designing brought it all together by allowing me to express myself while using the tools that I cultivated.
What sets you apart in your industry?
Purity and elegance.
What made you decide to break into the luxury market?
A love for quality, attention to detail, and sophisticated design.
What impact do you hope to make in the luxury market?
Less waste. Ways to complement what you already have in your closet rather than the ‘that’s so last season’ mentality.
What is unique about your business?
Jumpsuits! I love jumpsuits and I noticed that brands don’t have many to choose from in their collections. We have styles that can flatter a variety of body types and shapes and for different occasions.
What is one life lesson you have learned from being in this business?
You learn more pounding the streets than reading paper sheets!
What is next up on the horizon?
We plan on expanding distribution by going into stores and boutiques all over the country. Also, we are looking into partnering with other artists and designers that share our vision.
Where can readers follow you online?