Lara Mead: The Visionary Behind Varley and Her Inspiring Journey
The name Lara Mead has become synonymous with style, wellness, and entrepreneurial success. As the co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Varley, she has built a brand that bridges the gap between activewear and ready-to-wear fashion. Alongside her husband, Ben Mead, she transformed a shared dream into a globally recognised lifestyle label. Her story is not only about fashion and business but also about family values, resilience, and the influences that shaped her life, including the guidance of her father and father-in-law.
This article explores the journey of Lara Mead, her brand Varley, her partnership with Ben Mead, and the personal inspirations that fuel her vision.
The Birth of Varley
Inspiration from Lifestyle and Fashion
Varley was founded in 2014 with the vision of creating clothing that was not just confined to gyms or yoga studios, but versatile enough to carry women through every part of their daily lives. Lara Mead recognised a growing demand for pieces that combined function and fashion, and with her background in both wellness and style, she was perfectly positioned to answer that call.
The brand embodies elevated essentials—clothing that is as comfortable as it is chic. Varley is a reflection of Lara’s personal style, which is grounded in structure, simplicity, and timeless design.
A Brand Rooted in Duality
One of the most striking aspects of Varley is its dual influence from both London and Los Angeles. Lara and Ben Mead split their time between these two cities, and the brand reflects this balance: the elegance and polish of London combined with the laid-back, wellness-driven energy of Los Angeles. This unique blend has made Varley stand out in the crowded athleisure market.
Lara and Ben Mead: A Powerhouse Partnership
Meeting and Shared Vision
The story of Lara and Ben Mead is central to the identity of Varley. They first met during London Marathon training in 2010. Both shared a passion for fitness, wellness, and design, and it was this common ground that became the foundation for their partnership in life and business.
Their marriage and business have grown hand in hand, with Lara taking the lead in creative direction and Ben focusing on the operational side of the company. This balance of roles has enabled them to complement each other and build Varley into a brand that resonates with women globally.
Facing Challenges Together
Entrepreneurship is rarely smooth, and Lara and Ben Mead’s journey reflects the challenges of building a business from scratch. The couple self-funded their early ventures, relocated from London to Los Angeles in 2016 to expand the brand, and navigated the competitive fashion industry with determination. Their resilience is a testament to their shared belief in their vision.
Lara Mead: Creative Director and Style Icon
Personal Style Philosophy
As Chief Creative Officer, Lara Mead has established Varley’s signature aesthetic. Her own wardrobe and lifestyle seamlessly reflect the brand’s values: comfort, structure, and timeless elegance. She favours monochromatic tones, elevated basics, and statement accessories, creating a look that is understated yet powerful.
Her approach to design is not trend-driven but focused on creating pieces that stand the test of time. This philosophy has allowed Varley to develop into more than just an activewear label—it has become a lifestyle brand.
Balancing Life and Work
Lara’s life as a mother, entrepreneur, and creative leader informs her work. Her designs are practical, acknowledging the realities of busy women who move through school runs, meetings, workouts, and travel all in a single day. For her, fashion must serve the wearer, not the other way around.
Lara Mead’s Father: A Lifelong Inspiration
Early Influences
Lara Mead’s passion for movement and wellness can be traced back to her father. Growing up in Cumbria near the Lake District, she was heavily influenced by him. A former professional footballer, her father instilled in her a love for sport, resilience, and discipline. These early experiences shaped her identity and later became the cornerstone of her business ethos.
Running and outdoor activities with her father taught Lara the importance of both physical and mental wellbeing. This foundation naturally evolved into her career in wellness and fashion, blending her love of movement with her creative aspirations.
Passing Down Values
The influence of Lara’s father goes beyond sport. His dedication, hard work, and encouragement gave her the confidence to pursue her ambitions, even in the face of challenges. These values are visible in the culture of Varley and in the way Lara approaches her role as a leader and parent.
The Influence of Peter Mead
While her own father gave Lara a strong foundation in life and fitness, her father-in-law, Peter Mead, also played an instrumental role in shaping her journey. Known for his wisdom and kindness, Peter Mead offered support and guidance to both Lara and Ben as they navigated the uncertainties of entrepreneurship.
One of his most memorable pieces of advice—“When in doubt, be nice”—has become a guiding principle for Lara. It highlights the importance of kindness in business and life, an ethos that resonates strongly within Varley’s brand identity.
The Varley Lifestyle
More than Activewear
Varley is not simply about clothing; it represents a lifestyle that combines health, balance, and sophistication. Under Lara Mead’s creative direction, the brand has expanded from activewear into ready-to-wear collections, accessories, and even wellness-driven content.
It appeals to women who want clothes that transition effortlessly from the school gate to the office to dinner, without sacrificing comfort or style.
A Global Reach
From its early beginnings in London to its presence in Los Angeles and beyond, Varley has grown into a global brand. Stocked in luxury retailers and worn by women worldwide, it has cemented its place at the intersection of wellness and fashion.
Legacy and Future of Lara Mead
Building a Lasting Brand
For Lara Mead, the goal is not short-term success but a lasting impact. By staying true to her values and her vision, she has positioned Varley as a brand that will endure. Its focus on timeless design ensures it will not be swept aside by passing trends.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond fashion, Lara Mead serves as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and women balancing multiple roles. Her journey shows that with determination, creativity, and support, it is possible to build a life and career that aligns with one’s passions.
Her story is particularly inspiring for women who want to combine family life with professional ambition, showing that the two can complement rather than compete with each other.
Conclusion
The story of Lara Mead is one of vision, resilience, and inspiration. From her early influences under her father’s guidance, to her creative partnership with Ben Mead, to the wisdom imparted by her father-in-law, every aspect of her journey has shaped the person and professional she is today.
Through Varley, Lara Mead has redefined activewear, blending fashion with function to create a brand that empowers women in their daily lives. Her ability to balance family, business, and personal wellbeing makes her a true example of modern entrepreneurship.
