The American Prep Collection Redefining Tradition

Breaking Boundaries with Fashion Innovator Jujuan Lewis

Step into the vibrant world of Arius Juan's Spring/Summer 2024 Collection, where every stitch tells a story, and every design reflects a journey. Aptly named American Prep, this collection is more than just a showcase of garments; it's a celebration of diversity, a fusion of styles, and a bold statement challenging societal norms. Join us as we embark on an exclusive journey with the mastermind behind the brand, Jujuan Lewis, to unravel the inspirations, challenges, and messages woven into the fabric of Collection 4.

Picture this: the bustling streets of Chattanooga, TN, alive with the energy of a city steeped in history and brimming with diversity. It's here, amidst the Southern charm and urban vibrancy, that Jujuan Lewis found inspiration for American Prep. "I wanted to capture the essence of my upbringing – the dichotomy of public and private schooling, the clash of streetwear and prep school attire," Lewis shares with passion. "It's about embracing the beauty in the contrast, celebrating the diversity of experiences that shape us."

At the heart of American Prep lies the Carbohydrate Molecule Skirt, a provocative piece that challenges the status quo. The statement piece idea came to Jujuan as he reflected on the state of school lunches and the prevalence of processed foods, using the skirt as a conversation starter and reminder of the importance of healthy eating habits. "The emphasis on carbs was purely because of its sugar and starches that can lead to obesity", Lewis explains, his expression turning solemn. "Although many carbs can be used in a healthy diet, I feel like many school systems use the unhealthy part of it, prioritizing money over a student’s health."

But American Prep is not just about making a statement; it's about storytelling. With each design, Jujuan sought to create a narrative, to evoke emotions, to transport the wearer to a different world. Whether it's the nostalgia of a bygone era or the excitement of an urban adventure, every piece has a story to tell.

Yet, bringing American Prep to life was no easy feat. Jujuan wanted to push boundaries, to challenge perceptions, to redefine what it means to be stylish. But with innovation comes resistance, and breaking free from the norm was met with skepticism. "When we think about the normal standard blue and black suits, we automatically associate that with the terms classy or elegance. For me to not only display the range of color in streetwear and odd choice of colors when you wear public school uniform, I needed to bridge the relatability," Lewis declares, his determination unwavering. "When I decided to do coffee colors, it filled the gap, shedding light on my initial concept but also the overconsumption of coffee in the private school setting."

Through perseverance and passion, Lewis overcame every obstacle, transforming doubt into confidence, hesitation into triumph. With every stitch, he poured his heart and soul into this collection with a sense of pride evident in his work. Seeing it come to life is a testament to the power of perseverance, the beauty of self-expression, and the importance of staying true to who you are.

As the release of Arius Juan's Spring/Summer 2024 Collection continues to draw interest, the excitement is contagious. "I hope that as people experience the American Prep collection that they feel inspired, empowered, and unapologetically themselves," Lewis shares with pride. "I want them to see themselves reflected in every design, to find pieces that speak to their unique journey, their individuality, their essence."

For Jujuan Lewis, the American Prep collection is more than just a collection; it's a legacy, a testament to the power of creativity, diversity, and authenticity. "I want to leave a mark on the world, to spark conversations, to challenge perceptions," he confides with conviction. At Linger Magazine, we feel that American Prep will do just that – one stitch, one design, one story at a time.