How Temitope Kayode-Ojo is projecting African fashion to global audience

Temitope Kayode-Ojo isn’t just building a fashion brand, she’s crafting a cultural bridge.

As the Creative Director of LAVISH and founder of STYLE TERRAIN, she’s strategically positioning African design on the global stage, one elegant piece at a time.

Her journey, a blend of business acumen and creative vision, is a testament to the power of merging heritage with global inspiration.

Kayode-Ojo’s background is as diverse as her pieces. An MBA holder from Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School, she honed her skills at corporate giants like Morgan Stanley, Accenture, and PWC before venturing into the world of fashion.

This unique blend of financial and consulting experience, coupled with a decade in the bridal industry spanning two continents, provided the perfect foundation for LAVISH.

Founded in 2014 in the USA and later expanding to Lagos in 2017, LAVISH began as a bridal brand. However, in 2024, it evolved into a full-fledged fashion house, encompassing ready-to-wear, bridal styling, a bridal e-book, and mentorship programs for aspiring industry entrants.

This expansion reflects Kayode-Ojo’s ambition to not just dress women but to empower the next generation of African fashion entrepreneurs.

LAVISH’s recent 2025 resort collection, “A Sense of Place,” epitomizes Kayode-Ojo’s global vision. Unveiled at Entertainment Week Lagos in December 2024, the collection is a vibrant dialogue between cultures.

Inspired by the energy of Lagos and a passion for travel, it blends Nigerian heritage with global influences, like the serenity of Italian vineyards.

“The collection speaks to ‘the LAVISH woman,’ a global citizen,” Kayode-Ojo explains.

A woman who is constantly on the move, fitting seamlessly into different cultures and environments. She is confident, sophisticated, and unapologetically herself.

The collection’s versatility is key to its global appeal. Designed to transition seamlessly from Lagos to London, Milan to Manhattan, the pieces are craftedbfrom luxurious fabrics like silky satins, soft cottons, and luxurious tulle.

This attention to detail ensures that each garment not only looks stunning but feels exquisite.

The runway debut at Entertainment Week Lagos was a visual feast, showcasing the collection’s intricate details and striking prints. The event further cemented Kayode-Ojo’s status as a fashion icon and a champion of African design.

More than just creating beautiful clothes, Kayode-Ojo is building a platform for African creativity to shine on the world stage.

Through LAVISH and STYLE TERRAIN, which focuses on designer pieces from African and emerging brands, she is actively promoting and investing in the growth of the African fashion industry.

The “A Sense of Place” collection is more than just a seasonal offering; it’s a statementbans a glimpse into the future of fashion, where cultural diversity is celebrated, and personal style is paramount.

By pushing boundaries and embracing her heritage, Temitope Kayode-Ojo is not just projecting African fashion to a global audience; she’s redefining what global fashion looks like.

The collection is now available exclusively on the LAVISH website and social media platforms.