My name is Caroline Debisi Ogunshola and I'm the founder of Lusso Equestrian Apparel, the UK’s first black-owned equestrian clothing brand and here’s how it all began… 

I started riding during my year 6 summer holidays at my local riding school. My family wasn’t very horsey at all (still to this day I don't think my Mum has ever touched a horse) so the budget for lessons wasn't big at all! Luckily I was able to volunteer and help out on the weekends in exchange for a 30-minute lesson which cost £8 for the weekend.

Soon enough I was obsessed and was there every weekend without a doubt regardless of the weather. Just before my A levels I fell out of love with riding and took a break from riding, watching shows like heartland made me realise how much I missed it and I was desperate to start riding again...then lockdown happened!

I decided to buy everything I needed so I was ready to go again as soon as the lockdown was over. The breeches were so uncomfortable, the inside material was very itchy and I couldn't imagine wearing them all day. The black leggings I ordered were see-through.

I was disappointed to say the least but this got me thinking about how an affordable and reliable equestrian clothing brand was needed in the industry. Fast forward 2 years and I finally launched the first pair of signature riding leggings🙌

My main goal for Lusso Equestrian Apparel is to be the brand that bridged comfort and functionality by offering fashionable equestrian products that were based on durability, affordability, and accessibility. I’m creating the brand I wish I had when I was younger - producing amazing quality riding clothes and encouraging diversity in the sport. We believe that riding should be accessible to everyone, regardless of budget or experience level.

A huge thank you for all of your support and I can't wait to continue sharing my journey with you!💗

 

 

 

(The first picture was taken when I was 10 - The second picture is of me at 20🤍)