Just in time for the holiday season, the naughty guys in the streetwear world launch their super nice flagship retail location on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles – Crooks & Castles. Landing on the same block as Fred Segal and Kid Robot, the shop will house the Crooks & Castles collection as well as an exclusive line that will only be available at the flagship location.

Founded by Dennis Calvero and Robert Panlilio, the Crooks & Castles brand grew out of the LA street lifestyle, so it was only natural that they open up in the heart of its shopping district. Each piece that is produced with the Crooks & Castles tag expresses the culture, experience and passion that Calvero and Panlilio grew up with, inspiring their love for the independent fashion/graphic brands. The collection is based around a specific culture that is enigmatic of the brand’s motto – “Behind every castle, lies a crook.”

The flagship boutique, located at 8021 Melrose Avenue, spans 1,200 square feet and is spread out over 2 levels. The main floor is for the general public to browse and shop the latest from the house collection as well as the exclusive items. The interior of the space aims to create a contemporary look combining the use of marble and wood throughout the boutique. The walls, changing each season, will be covered with artwork by renowned artists. The opening launch will feature pieces by Andy Warhol.

The mezzanine level is set up to cater to the brands VIP’s. With a strong celebrity following such as Scott Storch, Big Boi of Outkast, Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Nas and Kanye West to name only a few, Crook & Castles wanted to dedicate a space where their VIP clientele can come in and shop in a private, relaxed environment. VIP’s will have the chance to pick up exclusive Crooks & Castles gear and the latest books in high fashion, while not making their consumers feel like second-class citizens.

“With the demand for the brand increasing more and more over the past few seasons we felt the timing was right to open a retail space. We are very excited about building a lifestyle destination where fans of the brand can drop by, shop for the latest Crooks product and hang out with friends,” said Dennis Calvero, co-founder of Crooks & Castles. “We’re also lucky to be in such close proximity to other respected brands and stores such as A Bathing Ape and DC Shoes.”

As creators of Crooks & Castles, Calvero and Panlilio have always rooted for the villain, whether it be in a movie, a comic book, a novel, a rap song or everyday life. Growing up in Los Angeles during the 80's & 90's they became a part of this villainous lifestyle. Gangs were everywhere - the hood, the city, even middle suburbia. Most had no choice but to adapt to the environment. Some were able to escape or even channel what they've learned on the street into something lucrative. The concept was easy – “Crooks” as in criminals, pimps, hustlers, thieves, etc. and "Castles," those who got rich by becoming a crook.

Look out for the new Crooks & Castles flagship store this winter at 8021 Melrose Avenue.


A PimpWiz Exclusive

Labels: Clothing