Biography - Francesco Ragazzi is one of the most sought-after Italian designers around. After 10 years of working at popular label Moncler,
he has now created his American-inspired label Palm Angels, which has become a favorite among celebrities – especially athletes and
musicians. This unique fashion brand has made a great mark in the industry in a short space of time. Inspired by American street culture,
Ragazzi tells a story through his garments by making use of bold colors and prints. This is the perfect blend of luxury and streetwear.
Story Behind Palm Angels
After working for more than a decade as one of the masterminds behind the lifestyle brand Moncler, the designer and photographer Francesco
Ragazzi decided to found his own label in 2015. He called it Palm Angels. Although his label is based in Milan, it's a far cry from the typical Italian
fire. Ragazzi lives between Los Angeles and Milan, and he conceived his brand after releasing a photography book with the same title in 2014. the
book celebrates Los Angeles' skateboarders, reinterpreted through his own vision.
Ragazzi's vision
Palm Angels showcases Ragazzi's American and Italian background. He uses his vision of American culture and adds an Italian flair for luxury in all
of his collections. It is neither the stereotypical Italian brand nor the typical American brand. He takes inspiration heavily from the 90's Los Angeles
West Coast culture and fuses this with upscale and luxury nuances. His clothes have been worn by various influential figures, such as Joe Jonas, A$AP
Rocky and Playboy Carti. This rebellious clothing brand is in high demand.
Palm Angels Debut Collection
In 2015, Palm Angels' debut collection was unisex and was inspired by 70's skate culture. It created a preppy chic feel, which has rarely been done
before in the fashion industry. The thought process behind each design was to reinterpret American culture and create a bold collection that speaks
of luxury and streetwear. Ragazzi is one of the pioneering agents in changing how streetwear is viewed. Having started his career at Moncler, he was
able to work with hip-hop Stars , such as Pharrell, to connect luxury and streetwear.
Streetwear meets luxury
There's been an increase in luxury brands adding streetwear to their collections, and Ragazzi can be thanked for this. Social media has also led to
streetwear in luxury collections being more acceptable and noticed. A sense of freedom is evident in all Ragazzi's designs, and the use of bright colors,
special designs and creative themes showcases this. Fun is also a key component of this brand, highlighting the carefree attitude of many Californians.
There's also cannabis symbolism, which is seen on some of the palm tree t-shirt designs.
Iconography
Now that cannabis has been legalized in California, Ragazzi thought to add it as an element in his designs. Marijuana is a lifestyle choice that represents
Palm Angels, reinforced by the fact that some rappers promote this brand, which is also appreciated in Asia. Although he uses simple pieces such as jeans
and t-shirts, Ragazzi makes sure to use special and creative images. The Asian market is very receptive to these more complex and unique designs, making
this a market he loves to explore as it's more adventurous.
Uniqueness
Ragazzi uses great fabrics and craftmanship, which comes from his Italian roots. Creativity is very important to him and it is seen in each of his pieces. hey
takes his time in creating all the garments and doesn't compromise on quality. Comfort is also very important, as most who buys streetwear items want to be
stylish, casual and comfortable. Music, photography, fashion and art are big influences as the way he produces his ideas. It is not only about the clothing – it's
also about being connected to the world.
Palms Angels is all about authenticity and interpreting American culture through an Italian mindset. Ragazzi's knowledge of art and being such a good photographer
is what brings his collections to life. His story is seen throughout his label; his work speaks for itself. What started as a coffee table book of photographs showing
Los Angeles' skateboard culture has now emerged into a legendary streetwear brand, taking the world by storm. Palms Angels is available in 210 stores worldwide,
including luxury retailers like Harvey Nichols and Saks Fifth Avenue.