Lawrence & Larimer has never been solely about fashion. For founder and designer John “JC” Chapman, the brand was never built just to sell clothes. It was built to represent something deeper. It’s always been about culture, community and creating space where Black creativity, storytelling and ownership aren’t on the sidelines — they’re the foundation.
JC doesn’t create to follow trends; he creates to start conversations. His designs often feature bold visuals and powerful text meant to challenge viewers, spark thought and invite deeper dialogue.
“I want people to ask questions,” he says. “That’s where real connection starts.” What started with a single T-shirt designed, printed and sold by JC himself has grown into one of Denver’s most intentional and impactful lifestyle brands. He takes pride in personally designing every garment, infusing each piece with meaning, memory and message.
That spirit of intentional disruption extends far beyond the clothing racks. Lawrence & Larimer’s East Colfax location is more than a boutique; it’s a space that breathes creativity. From poetry nights to pop-up art shows, the brand has become a trusted home for artists of all disciplines. Most recently, JC launched a Tiny Desk-style music series that transforms the shop into an intimate live performance venue.
One standout act, Lane-O, graced the in-store stage before opening for Juvenile at Denver’s Juneteenth Block Party. But the performance was more than a gig. Rather, it was a signal of what Lawrence & Larimer represents: a launchpad for emerging talent and a reflection of the city’s creative pulse.
JC sees the space as an open door for artists to grow alongside the brand. “I want people to feel like they belong here, like this space is already theirs.”
That vision is the result of more than a decade of consistency. JC has built a brand not on hype, but on care and on listening to his community, honoring his roots and expanding with purpose. Whether through fashion or music, Lawrence & Larimer creates opportunities that resonate far beyond the block.
“People are always going to talk,” JC says. “So just start. Stay consistent. Let that one idea build itself.”
When people walk into Lawrence & Larimer, JC wants them to feel the energy: grounded, honest and hopeful. He hopes they leave with more than a purchase: he hopes they leave inspired.
That balance of storytelling and style is what defines the brand. JC’s collections aren’t about trends; they’re about truth. They’re about crafting garments that hold meaning and stand the test of time. With a titular nod to Denver’s Lawrence and Larimer streets, the designs pay homage to history while pushing the culture forward.
So what does legacy look like for JC?
“Legacy is about creating something that outlives you. It’s about making space, lifting others up and knowing you left something real behind.”
And that’s exactly what Lawrence & Larimer continues to be: not just a brand, but a foundation. A platform. A place where style meets story, and where the community continues to write the next chapter.
Lawrence & Larimer is located at 3225 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206 and is open from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday through Sunday.