We got the opportunity to converse with Arius Juan's CEO, Creative Director, and Designer, Jujuan Lewis. In our conversation, we learned many things. Like how he founded his clothing label, the origin of the name, who he draws inspiration from, and much more. Plus, he even brings us in to his upcoming releases and collabs that we're excited for, and think you should be too. Let's get into it...
(Image from Arius Juan)
BNR: When did you initially launch Arius Juan? And describe the feeling you had when it was officially presented to the world for the very first time.
I initially launched Arius Juan in February of 2021 during COVID, but the work started a year before that. The idea to start Arius Juan (derived from my name Jujuan and my brother's name Cadarius) came from my brother, who was always a stylish person. I planned to run the business while he designed the clothes. However, this initial concept fell through, and I found myself at a crossroads. I had to either abandon the idea or try to build a legacy. I chose to build the legacy and learn how to design myself.
In 2021, I released a four-piece collection called "Dream," where I took four time periods and designed one item for each. Although I was proud of all the work I had done in creating, I knew nothing about branding or marketing. Needless to say, release day was an eye-opener to how harsh this sector of business was. I was disappointed when I officially presented to the world, but I always knew—and still know—that the world will eventually see it when the time is right.
BNR: To someone who hasn't heard of Arius Juan (Yet), how would you describe it?
To anyone who hasn’t heard of Arius Juan, I would describe us as a vibrant midpoint of contemporary American design. We take American themes and colors to evoke a consistently balanced emotion. Our luxury brand elevates minimalism while embracing color, exuding confidence and a sense of belonging for our consumers.
(Image from Arius Juan)
BNR: We know launching and operating a brand isn't easy at all. What has the process been like for you to constantly create pieces and fulfill orders?
The process has been tricky. When you operate within the fashion industry, the experience has to be cohesive. Many of our pieces are detailed luxury items, so our branding and consumer experience must match that level of sophistication. When I design a piece, I automatically consider how it ties in with the theme, campaign, and overall branding and consumer experience of Arius Juan.
BNR: Sort of a trick question, which was the bigger moment for you...Seeing that you received your very first order? Or seeing a customer in your creation for the very first time?
I’ll tell you this: My little sister saw a video that went viral on TikTok a while back, and she instantly called me. In the video, one of my customers was wearing my creation during a big-time interview. It made me feel accomplished because I never intended for my customers to wear my clothing on a daily basis, but rather when they wanted to feel classy and confident.
BNR: We're curious, was it always your aspiration to be a fashion creator? Or did this kind of stumble out the blue for you?
Honestly, I never thought this would be my aspiring career path. It was always something my brother wanted to do, but when he couldn’t, I wanted to carry out his dream. As I got deeper into it, it slowly became my dream as well, and I think it’s the coolest thing to share a dream with your sibling while honoring them. Once I felt like God called me to do this in the most unusual way, I embraced it. Now, I want to become a prominent name in the industry.
BNR: What has been your personal favorite garment or accessory you've released so far? What makes this your favorite out of everything else?
By far, our timeless V-neck sweater. I think the detail and the color make it the perfect combination.
(Image from Arius Juan)
BNR: Who are some of the designers and brands you've drawn inspiration from, currently or in the past? What is it about them that inspires you?
The number one brand for me will always be Ralph Lauren. He is a true American hero and artisan. From the numerous hours spent studying him and his brand, he taught me how to be a true conceptualist. Another inspiration is Kerby Jean-Raymond from Pyer Moss. A true expressionist, he taught me how to be bold and thorough with my designs. When you see my collections, there will always be a middle ground between these two inspirations.
(Left: Kerby Jean-Raymond, Right: Ralph Lauren - Ralph Lauren SS16 New York Fashion Week - PixelFormula
BNR: If you could style anyone, past or present, in Arius Juan, who whould you style and why them?
I have an interesting take on this question. I always view these situational questions as an opportunity to style someone in a moment of history. As an American fashion designer, I would have loved to style Richard Gere in the movie "Pretty Woman." I believe the styles would have transcended the movie screen.
BNR: What about Arius Juan are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the commitment to creating collections that consistently embody a theme. Though it requires time and effort, it's the way I pay homage to artisans who came before me. It also reinforces our commitment to longevity and the belief that fashion should always evolve.
BNR: What can you let us know about what's coming soon for Arius Juan? Any new collections, collabs, etc?
We have two releases coming up this fall/winter. First, our SCBA (Sustainable Creativity Becomes Art) x Arius Juan Letterman Jackets are set to launch, paying homage to art and color. Designing these jackets inspired me like a kid again, drawing from the original Power Rangers.
Secondly, our Fall/Winter 2024 Collection “Eternal Autumn” is designed with the perspective of Japanese American architecture in mind. Inspired by sleek, innovative buildings, arches, and linear patterns, this collection connects American roots to our melting pot, drawing from the legacy of Japanese American architect Minoru Yamasaki.
This conversation is presented by BNR. Follow us for more -> @brannewrunway
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