Lara Teshola has always possessed a creative spark within her and a passion for fashion and design even when she chose to study Communication and Media Technology for her degree and when ventured into the corporate world working with KPMG in Lagos Nigeria. But leaving the corporate world in 2013, added with an eventful diasporic adventure gave traction to what was a lifelong passion. MADE Lagos, the latest of her fashion and design expression, is a luxury label that specializes in all manner of exquisite outfits, fuses Lara’s Nigerian heritage with her experience across European and Middle Eastern annotations. As the brand continues to pursue the aim of redefining beauty, driving social change, empowering individuals to thrive, and making a meaningful impact in communities around the world, allnaijadiaspora spoke with Lara Teshola to find out more about MADE Lagos’s creative process and the inspiration behind the brand’s vibrant designs, a catalogue of which can be found on the brand’s website, Shapes&ColorsNg.com. Excerpts:
Thank you for taking the time to answer the questions.
It’s my pleasure. Thank you for having me.
You’ve been an entrepreneur ‘on the road’ (entrepreneur in the diaspora) for a little over a decade now. How did it all start?
My entrepreneurial journey began whilst I was in the university. I felt led to embark on a path of creative expression and purpose-driven entrepreneurship, which ultimately led to the birth of MADE Lagos.
So, when exactly did you get into fashion and designs?
Fashion and design have been a lifelong passion of mine, and it became a central focus of my entrepreneurial journey when I founded Shapes & Colors and later expanded with the launch of MADE Lagos. But it wasn’t until I left the corporate world in 2013 that I fully immersed myself in the industry.
Before leaving Nigeria, you were a (busy) corporate executive. Have you always seen yourself stepping onto such creative aptitudes as you are currently doing?
While my corporate career was fulfilling in many ways, I went solely into corporate to learn! Learn structure and how to effectively run an organisation, because before I finished university, I had felt led to embark on a path of creative expression and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. I’ve always had a creative spark within me. The transition to pursuing my creative aptitudes was a natural progression fueled by a desire for self-expression and innovation. Shapes & Colors and MADE represent the culmination of my entrepreneurial vision, merging my business acumen with my passion for fashion and social impact.
Tell us a bit about how you got started with MADE: What spurred you on to start the brand?
MADE Lagos, was born out of a divine instruction with the mission to counteract the false identities constructed by the enemy and to proclaim the truth of our identity in Christ. Inspired by Genesis 1:27, MADE Lagos was founded with a mission to heal through fashion and the Word, inviting people to rediscover their true identity and embrace the beauty of who they were created to be.
Where does your inspiration come from in terms of designs?
My inspiration stems from various sources, including the scriptures, nature, travel experiences, and the rich tapestry of African Heritage. I’m particularly drawn to exploring the intersection between tradition and modernity in my designs, infusing elements of heritage with a contemporary twist while staying true to the transformative message behind MADE.
You have a very unique and distinct style, accomplishing cross-continental designs with what we may call local materials. How did you hone this great style since the launch of MADE?
Our distinctive style at MADE Lagos, is a reflection of our commitment to celebrating African craftsmanship and identity while embracing global influences. We source our materials ethically and sustainably, partnering with local artisans and craftsmen to create pieces that that reflect our brand’s ethos and mission.
How does your creative process work? Where do you source your materials?
My creative process is collaborative and iterative, often beginning with conceptualizing ideas inspired by the message God wants us to communicate. We (The Team and I) then design our prints and prioritized sourcing materials ethically and sustainably, often working closely with local artisans and suppliers to ensure quality, craftsmanship, authenticity, and environmental stewardship at every step of the process.
Who do you design for? Who do you hope will buy into the brand in the foreseeable future?
I design for individuals who appreciate craftsmanship, authenticity, and cultural diversity, and who resonate with the transformative message behind MADE Lagos. Our goal is to empower individuals of all backgrounds to see themselves as God sees them! Beautifully, fearfully and lavishly MADE! Reclaiming their true identity and purpose. We hope to continue expanding our reach and attracting a diverse audience who values both style and substance.
What are your plans for the future? How do you see the brand developing over the years?
Looking ahead, we envision further expanding the brand’s reach and impact through strategic partnerships, innovative collaborations, and continued commitment to our mission. Ultimately, our goal is to win souls—to lead people back to the truth of who they are in Christ. Through MADE Lagos, we aim to redefine beauty, drive social change, and empower individuals to thrive, making a meaningful impact in communities around the world.
How do you manage to live and operate in two countries at the same time?
Operating in two countries requires careful planning, effective time management, communication, and a strong support network/team. I prioritize establishing clear systems and processes while embracing flexibility and adaptability to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of operating across continents. At this point I must say that I am deeply grateful for the dedicated team at MADE Lagos who work tirelessly to ensure smooth operations and seamless execution across both locations.
If you were to give a piece of advice to your younger self, what will that be?
If I could offer advice to my younger self, it would be to embrace each opportunity and challenge as a stepping stone on your journey, and never underestimate the power of perseverance, faith, and self-belief.
Thank you once again for your time.
It’s been my pleasure. Thank you for the opportunity to share the story of MADE Lagos.
