Palm Angels: A Bold Fusion of Luxury and Subculture
Origins and Founding
Palm Angels was founded in 2015 by Francesco Ragazzi, an Italian designer and photographer whose vision was inspired by the skateboarding subculture of Los Angeles. Initially a photography project documenting skaters and their unique style, Palm Angels transformed into a fashion brand that merges the casual, rebellious ethos of skate culture with the refined craftsmanship of Italian luxury. The name itself evokes a mix of California’s palm-lined streets and the rebellious, almost divine freedom that skateboarding represents.
Ownership and Leadership
Francesco Ragazzi, who began his career as the artistic director for Moncler, remains the driving force behind Palm Angels. His background in luxury design informs the brand’s sophisticated yet edgy aesthetic. Palm Angels is part of the New Guards Group, a Milan-based conglomerate responsible for fostering modern streetwear icons like Off-White. This association has allowed Palm Angels to expand rapidly while maintaining its independent, subversive spirit.
Aesthetic and Notable Pieces
Palm Angels is defined by its ability to blend skate culture’s rawness with high-end design. Its signature tracksuits, often featuring bold side stripes and gothic-lettered logos, have become a global fashion staple. Other standout pieces include oversized plaid shirts, flame-print hoodies, and distressed denim adorned with provocative slogans or graphic embellishments. The label frequently experiments with bold prints, vibrant colors, and retro Americana motifs, creating collections that feel both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
Collaborations have also played a key role in shaping the brand’s identity. Palm Angels has partnered with Moncler Genius, Under Armour, and Missoni, producing limited-edition pieces that showcase its versatility and appeal across fashion sectors.
Legacy and Influence
Palm Angels has redefined the intersection of luxury and streetwear, creating a blueprint for other brands aiming to balance subculture authenticity with high fashion credibility. The brand has contributed to the normalization of casualwear in luxury contexts, bringing skate culture aesthetics into spaces like Milan Fashion Week and elite retail stores. Its influence extends beyond clothing, shaping broader conversations about the value of youth-driven, subversive fashion in a luxury landscape traditionally dominated by formal aesthetics.
Famous Fans and Cultural Impact
Palm Angels has cultivated a devoted following among musicians, athletes, and cultural icons. ASAP Rocky, Billie Eilish, Travis Scott, and Drake have been spotted in its designs, often incorporating Palm Angels pieces into their personal styles. These high-profile endorsements have amplified the brand’s presence on social media and cemented its status as a key player in modern fashion. The label’s ability to remain authentic while appealing to a global audience underscores its unique position in the fashion world.
