Meet Clu | Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Clu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Clu, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
As the owner of APULU, I came up with the idea for my business based on my upbringing in Brooklyn during the 90s and my passion for hip-hop culture and art history. I was inspired by the way that hip-hop fashion and culture have influenced and shaped American iconography, and I wanted to create a luxury streetwear brand that reflects those influences and also makes a positive impact in our communities.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I believe that what sets APULU apart from other luxury streetwear brands is our commitment to combining high-end techniques with elements of hip-hop culture, nostalgia, and personal stories.

Growing up in Brooklyn during the 90s and studying hip-hop culture and art history gave me a unique perspective on fashion and design. I wanted to create a brand that reflects my personal experiences and the experiences of those around me, while also incorporating elements of luxury and craftsmanship, vintage designs, and messages that connect to everyday life.

While my journey to where I am today hasn’t been easy, I believe that the challenges I’ve faced have only made me stronger and more resilient. I’ve learned to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth and to remain focused and driven even when faced with obstacles.

As a brand, APULU will not be limited to fashion but also promote social responsibility. We believe that fashion has the power to make a positive impact on the world, and we’re dedicated to using that power to create a better future.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that APULU is more than just a clothing brand – it’s a reflection of my personal experiences and a celebration of hip-hop culture, art, and personal storytelling. Luxury for us is hoping our clothing inspires others to embrace their own unique stories and to make a positive impact on the world through their fashion choices.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh, I love this question! Atlanta is such an amazing city with so much to offer.

First off, for breakfast, I would take my friend to The Flying Biscuit Cafe for some delicious Southern-style breakfast. For lunch, we would head to Ponce City Market and check out the variety of food stalls there. And for dinner, I would take them to Gunshow, a unique dining experience where chefs come around to your table and present different dishes for you to choose from.

During the day, we would explore some of Atlanta’s iconic attractions like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, the Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola. These locations are a staple of Atlanta. For something a little more off the beaten path, we would check out Krog Street Market, a food hall and marketplace that showcases some of Atlanta’s best local vendors and artists.

At night, we would definitely have to check out some of the city’s amazing nightlife spots. We would start off in the Old Fourth Ward. From there, we would head over to Edgewood Ave in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood and check out some of the bars and clubs there.

Throughout the week, we would have to take a stroll through the historic Virginia-Highland neighborhood and check out some of the unique shops and boutiques there.

Overall, I think Atlanta is an amazing city with so much to offer. From its delicious food and vibrant nightlife to its rich history and beautiful parks, there’s truly something for everyone here.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Well, I’ve always documented my success in stages, all of which have played a significant impact on my growth.

First and foremost, I would like to thank my mother for instilling in me a love of design and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. She taught me the importance of quality and attention to detail from a young age, and she has been a constant source of inspiration and support throughout my career.

I also want to give a shoutout to Brooklyn, the neighborhood where I grew up. The energy and creativity of the people and culture in Brooklyn have had a profound impact on my own artistic vision, and I’m proud to draw inspiration from my roots.

I would also like to recognize the impact of my time at Florida A&M University (FAMU). My experiences there taught me the importance of community, diversity, and creativity, and gave me the tools and skills I needed to pursue my dreams.

I want to give credit to Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. Through the fraternity, I learned the importance of community service, leadership, and teamwork, which have all been invaluable skills in my career.

Finally, I want to give a shoutout to my fiancée, and close circle of friends and family who have supported me throughout my journey. Their encouragement and belief in my vision have helped me to stay focused and driven, even when faced with obstacles and challenges.

Website: www.apuluthegod.com

Instagram: @officialapulu

Twitter: @officialapulu

Facebook: @officialapulu