Here at Kempt we believe that what you wear should tell a story about who you are. For Pride this year, we wanted to tell a story about love and self-expression through something as simple as a pair of linen pants. We asked John-Prelsey Orvin (@johnpresleyy) and Cameron Sawyer (@camsawyer), two of our favorite customers, to show us what Pride looks like in their world. 

Meet JP & Cam.

When we think about love that feels easy and real, we think about JP and Cam. As a couple, they bring out the best in each other, and their style reflects that.  

JP describes his current look as more relaxed than ever: “I don’t sweat the small stuff and try to enjoy the moment.” But he is always sure to include a nod to his Southern roots, “I’ll throw on a Willie Nelson shirt and a baseball hat and feel amazing the same way I would feel wearing a tuxedo." Cam takes a more layered approach while blending his DC roots with his life in Athens. “There are many hats I wear in life, and I like to make sure I’m dressing the part for each role,” he says. “I want it to be very unique and show a lot of my character,” he mentions as he details how this pushes his introverted nature. 

For this photoshoot, we gave them both the same pair of linen pants (the Les Deux Striped Pino Linen Pant.) From there, they made it completely their own.

JP styled his look with our Les Deux Barry Baseball Jersey Shirt, Veja Volley Leather Sneakers, and the Seager Uncle Bill Snapback to top it off—  a mix of Southern charm and city edge. “Even when he’s not trying, it comes together so polished and exactly right,” Cam says. “He has this way of incorporating his love for cowboys with this cool, fresh vibe. No one else dresses like him.”

Cam brought a monochromatic look to life, pairing the pants with a Rhythm Terry T-Shirt, Veja Leather Volley Sneakers, and a Curated Basics Snake Bandana. “I wear a lot of all tan, all white, all black and throw in a pop of color,” Cam details his styled look. “Versatility is ingrained in me. To be able to go from the office, to drinks, to dinner all in one outfit is key.” 

Their fashion story as a couple started with shared closets and style swaps, “I love stealing his clothes and adopting them as my own,” Cam jokes, but it's become something much more meaningful.

“We’ve changed each other’s style just by being together,” JP says. “He gave me a sense of confidence and security to be able to play around with how I dress,” shares Cam.

To JP and Cam, Pride isn’t just a moment in June. It’s something they carry with them daily.

“Growing up, we didn’t get the opportunity to dream and romanticize marrying someone of the same sex,” Cam says. “Now we try to be a confident example that loving someone of the same sex is perfectly okay—it should be celebrated.”

For JP, it’s about living the life he once thought wasn’t possible. “Cam and I both came from conservative homes. I would’ve never thought I’d have such an amazing partner. Pride for us is about showing up for one another and living a life we’re proud of.”

It's also about being visible to themselves, to each other, and to those watching. “We hope these images remind people that we’re human. We love love. And we care about each other the same way anyone else does,” Cam says.

As Athens continues to grow and evolve, having spaces like Kempt matters. JP shares “In today’s climate, having queer-friendly spaces where we can be ourselves is so healing.” For Cam, it’s a place where individual expression and inclusive style are both welcomed. “Even my mom shops here when she visits,” he laughs.

We’re proud that Kempt can be a place where love, expression, and individuality are not only accepted but celebrated.

Cam said it best, “Be exactly who you are and do it unapologetically. Our hearts are only given to us once—so love strong, and take care of those in our community who need it the most. We’re all one band at the end of the day, trying to make a melody.”

To us here at Kempt, Pride is about showing up as your true self. It’s about honoring love in all its forms and celebrating its beauty. JP and Cam are a testament to the power of authenticity. There is power in finding someone who sees you, supports you, and helps you become even more yourself, even if it’s by letting them steal your favorite shirt from your closet. 

We’re honored to share this part of their story with you.

 

A special thanks to The Lark Winespace for letting us use their beautiful space (and for the tasty drinks.)