Palace Skateboards Partners with Rizla for Unexpected Capsule Collection

The fashion industry has long held a complex and often intertwined relationship with the world of tobacco. From iconic runway moments featuring supermodels like Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne puffing away on cigarettes, to the pervasive imagery of smoking in cinematic and artistic representations of counterculture, cigarettes have, for decades, been a symbol woven into the fabric of fashion’s aesthetic and attitude. However, direct collaborations between major fashion brands and tobacco or smoking-related companies have remained a rarity, often navigating a fine line between edgy rebellion and corporate responsibility. This week, that dynamic shifts as London-based skatewear giant Palace Skateboards announces a surprising and distinctive partnership with Rizla, one of the world’s oldest and most recognized rolling paper brands.

The newly unveiled 14-piece capsule collection, launched online on May 29th, represents a bold move into uncharted territory for both brands. Palace, known for its distinctive streetwear aesthetic and often referencing British subcultures and nostalgia, joins forces with Rizla, a brand synonymous with the do-it-yourself culture of smoking. The collection features a range of apparel and accessories, including a classic race jacket, hoodies, rugby shirts, mesh jerseys, t-shirts, and caps. Each item is emblazoned with the dual branding of Palace and Rizla, signifying a fusion of their respective visual identities. Beyond apparel, the collaboration extends to branded Rizla rolling papers and a custom ashtray, further cementing the thematic link between the two entities.

This partnership raises intriguing questions about the evolving landscape of brand collaborations and the potential for established brands to engage with industries that have historically been subject to significant public health scrutiny and regulation. While the original article subtly acknowledges the health risks associated with smoking, suggesting a playful replacement of "smoking Rizlas with wearing them instead," the underlying implications of such a collaboration warrant a deeper examination.

A Legacy of Imagery and the Taboo of Collaboration

The fashion world’s flirtation with smoking is well-documented. In the latter half of the 20th century, cigarettes were frequently depicted as symbols of sophistication, rebellion, and an alluringly dangerous allure. Models like Linda Evangelista and Edie Campbell have, at various points in their careers, been photographed or walked runways with cigarettes, contributing to an image that blended high fashion with a certain gritty authenticity. This association, while iconic, also reflects a bygone era where public health concerns surrounding smoking were less universally addressed in mainstream media and advertising.

The inherent challenge for brands engaging with the tobacco industry, or its related paraphernalia, lies in navigating the ethical considerations and potential public backlash. While Rizla rolling papers are not cigarettes themselves, they are intrinsically linked to the act of smoking. The decision by Palace Skateboards to partner with such a brand signals a deliberate embrace of a cultural artifact that, while historically significant, is now widely recognized for its detrimental health effects. This move can be interpreted as a commentary on the normalization of certain lifestyle elements within subcultures and their subsequent integration into mainstream fashion.

The Palace x Rizla Collection: Design and Context

The 14-piece collection itself draws upon the established visual language of both Palace and Rizla. Palace’s signature bold graphics, often infused with a retro-futuristic sensibility and a touch of irreverent humor, are applied to garments that resonate with streetwear enthusiasts. The inclusion of Rizla’s iconic branding, likely its distinctive blue and white color palette and familiar logo, creates a unique visual dialogue. The race jacket, a staple in streetwear and motorsport-inspired fashion, is a natural canvas for such a collaboration, allowing for prominent display of both brand logos. Similarly, hoodies and t-shirts offer a more casual and accessible platform for this unexpected union.

The inclusion of branded Rizla papers and an ashtray further emphasizes the collection’s commitment to the theme. These items serve as direct nods to the functional use of Rizla products, making the collaboration more than just a superficial branding exercise. It taps into a specific aspect of smoking culture that has, for many, been a part of personal rituals and social gatherings.

Broader Industry Trends and the Evolution of Collaborations

This Palace x Rizla collaboration arrives at a time when the fashion industry is increasingly exploring unconventional partnerships. Brands are constantly seeking ways to generate buzz, connect with new audiences, and differentiate themselves in a crowded market. We have seen fashion houses collaborate with fast-food chains, gaming companies, and even automotive brands. The Rizla partnership, while perhaps more provocative than some, fits within this broader trend of brands pushing boundaries and engaging with elements of popular culture that might have once been considered off-limits.

The timing of this announcement also places it within a larger context of significant fashion news this week. The original article briefly touches upon other notable happenings, including:

• Diana Al Shammari’s design work: The Iraqi refugee designing football jerseys for prominent players highlights the growing influence of diverse voices and cultural fusion in fashion.
• Marachii’s unique approach: The Chanel-approved designer tackling Nigeria’s oil industry with fashion underscores the industry’s increasing engagement with socio-political and environmental themes.
• May’s notable collaborations: A recap of major collaborations from the previous month suggests a sustained trend of cross-industry partnerships.
• Behind-the-scenes access: Insights into creative processes, such as the making of Charli XCX’s "SS26" music video, offer a deeper understanding of the fashion ecosystem.

Other Notable Fashion News This Week

Beyond the Palace x Rizla announcement, the fashion world has been abuzz with several other significant developments, demonstrating the dynamic nature of the industry:

Maya Jama Serves Up Swimwear

Television presenter Maya Jama has stepped into the spotlight as the new face of Agent Provocateur, starring in a striking new swimwear campaign. Shot by renowned photographer Claire Rothstein in picturesque Ibiza, Jama transitions from her prominent role on Love Island to showcase the luxury lingerie brand’s latest collection of swimsuits and bikinis. The campaign, noted for its "steamy" aesthetic, highlights Jama’s charisma and presence, aligning her with the brand’s image of confidence and sensuality. This collaboration taps into the growing influence of television personalities in driving fashion trends and consumer engagement.

Louis Vuitton & UNICEF Launch POWER4Girls

In a significant philanthropic initiative, Louis Vuitton, in partnership with UNICEF, has launched POWER4Girls. This program marks the 10th anniversary of their ongoing collaboration and aims to empower girls aged 10 to 25 across 120 countries in South America, Africa, and Asia. The initiative signifies a commitment to global social responsibility, leveraging the brand’s considerable reach and resources to address issues of gender equality and empowerment. Such partnerships underscore the increasing importance of corporate social responsibility in the luxury sector, where consumers are often looking for brands that align with their values.

Balenciaga Needs a New York Minute

Balenciaga, under the creative direction of Demna Gvasalia, has unveiled a compelling new campaign titled "A New York Minute: Keep Rolling." Starring actress Sarah Pidgeon and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Celine Song, the campaign features a series of three short films. These films celebrate three of Balenciaga’s signature handbags, showcasing them within the vibrant and dynamic backdrop of New York City. The collaboration between high fashion and cinematic storytelling continues to be a powerful tool for brands to convey their narrative and connect with audiences on an emotional level.

Fendi Goes Beyond the Mirror

Maria Grazia Chiuri, currently the Creative Director of Fendi, has released her own campaign film, "Beyond the Mirror." This project serves as a tribute to the pioneering fashion film "Histoire d’Eau," created in 1977 by Jacques de Bascher under the commission of Karl Lagerfeld to launch Fendi’s first ready-to-wear collection. Chiuri’s contemporary reinterpretation not only honors Fendi’s rich heritage but also highlights the enduring legacy of fashion filmmaking as an artistic medium. This harkens back to Fendi’s historical commitment to innovation in presenting its collections.

Gucci Starts Its Engines

The allure of Formula One has captured the attention of yet another major fashion house, with Gucci announcing its partnership with the Alpine F1 team. Following in the footsteps of brands like Louis Vuitton, Y-3, Gentle Monster, and Tommy Hilfiger, Gucci will be dressing the Alpine team both on and off the track. This collaboration signifies Gucci’s entry into the high-octane world of motorsport, a domain increasingly embraced by luxury brands for its association with speed, precision, and cutting-edge technology. The partnership is expected to create a unique synergy between fashion and automotive excellence.

Alohas Say Aloha to the Hilma Bag

Barcelona-based footwear brand Alohas has expanded its product offering with the launch of its first handbag, the Hilma. Available in various sizes and styles, the Hilma bag features a distinctive clear pouch at the front, allowing wearers to personalize and showcase their chosen contents. This design element caters to a growing trend of customizable accessories and offers a platform for self-expression. The Hilma bag is now available for purchase, marking a significant step in Alohas’s brand evolution beyond its initial focus on footwear.

Blondey McCoy’s THAMES MMXX. Lands in Soho

British skateboarder and designer Blondey McCoy is solidifying his brand’s presence with the opening of THAMES MMXX.’s first permanent retail space. Located at 53 Brewer Street in Soho, London, the new shop will house the brand’s eclectic range of products, including tailoring, premium knitwear, fine jewelry, and accessories, alongside its signature "Bread and Butter" basics. After years of successful pop-up ventures, McCoy’s decision to establish a brick-and-mortar store signifies a maturation of the brand and an ambition to offer customers a comprehensive brand experience. McCoy’s vision for the store is to create "a world to live in and delight in," suggesting a curated environment that goes beyond mere retail.

The fashion industry continues to demonstrate its capacity for innovation and adaptation, with brands constantly seeking new avenues for expression and engagement. The Palace x Rizla collaboration, while unconventional, is a testament to this evolving landscape, pushing the boundaries of what constitutes acceptable and exciting brand partnerships in the contemporary fashion sphere. The broader context of these other fashion news items further illustrates a sector that is diverse, dynamic, and ever-ready to surprise.