OUR STORY
MEET THE FOUNDER !
My name is Sarah Collins Lawler and my I was born into a creative family. My dad is a home builder, and my mother is an attorney by day--writer by night. My family is filled with musicians, designers, and artists, and I knew from a young age, that I wanted to be a "fashion designer."
Fast forward to high school, I had 2 fashion lines by senior year and was admitted to The University of Alabama, for Apparel and Textile Design. My plan, was to move to NYC and work for a designer, but things didn't exactly go to plan...
I was in a terrible boat accident the summer I graduated college, and it took two years to fully recover. During that time, I worked for a multi line showroom, then moved to a prominent clothing brand here, in Atlanta. Since then, I've moved to a new position, outside the fashion world which I love, but have always kept the creative flame alive.
My husband bought me a sewing machine during the COVID-19 lockdown to reignite my passion in textiles, and in August 2021, I launched TELA!
BEHIND THE BRAND !
TELA is a one size fits all kaftan line that brings leisure and luxury together and is meant to make everyone look and feel beautiful! We celebrate the rich diversity of global cultures through crafted pieces that spotlight unique textiles from around the world.
CRAFTED CONSCIOUSLY !
At TELA we believe that fashion should be inclusive, sustainable, and empowering. Our ethos is centered around these principles, driving every decision we make and every garment we create.
Our commitment to inclusivity starts with our one-size approach. By designing dresses that fit a wide range of sizes and ages, we aim to celebrate diversity and embrace the beauty of all body types.
Quality is paramount to us, which is why we source the finest materials from around the globe. From luxurious fabrics to intricate embellishments, each element is carefully chosen to ensure both style and durability.
Our dresses are made-to-order, allowing us to minimize waste and ensure a zero-waste approach to production. We actively repurpose scrap fabric, with the help of our seamstress's daughter, to create unique accessories and accents. Our manufacturing partners share our values, with a local seamstress in Atlanta, GA, and a manufacturer in Colombia who employ single moms, fostering economic independence and empowerment.
At TELA, we believe that fashion can be a force for good. With our commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and empowerment, we strive to make a positive impact on the world, one dress at a time. Join us on our journey to redefine fashion, and let's create a brighter, more inclusive future together.