Pelle Pelle, an iconic urban fashion brand, was founded by Marc Buchanan in 1978, originating as a leather outerwear company in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The brand quickly gained prominence within the burgeoning hip-hop scene of the 1970s and 1980s, characterized by its vibrant, highly embellished leather jackets. These designs, infused with bold colors and intricate details, resonated with MCs, breakdancers, and fashion-forward individuals, establishing Pelle Pelle as a revolutionary force in urban fashion. Buchanan’s designs drew inspiration from an Italian phrase meaning “leather leather,” symbolizing the brand’s dedication to luxury and craftsmanship.

Throughout the decades, Pelle Pelle’s influence extended far beyond its leather roots, evolving to include sportswear and other outerwear. The brand’s trajectory is marked by significant milestones, including a collaboration with the legendary hip-hop group Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, who commissioned studded leather jackets for their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. Pelle Pelle’s reach expanded globally, gaining a loyal following in Japan and Europe. Despite legal challenges, such as the 2003 Federal Trade Commission fine for mislabeled garments, Pelle Pelle’s reputation for quality and style remained intact, further cementing its status in the fashion world.

Pelle Pelle’s enduring appeal can be attributed to its ability to adapt to changing fashion trends while maintaining its distinctive identity. Celebrities like 50 Cent, Ludacris, and Usher have been spotted wearing Pelle Pelle, enhancing the brand’s visibility and prestige. Even as the brand faced licensing changes and Buchanan’s eventual retirement, the legacy of Pelle Pelle continues to thrive, with enthusiasts worldwide still seeking its iconic pieces. This storied history not only highlights Pelle Pelle’s cultural significance but also underscores its lasting impact on urban fashion.

Pelle Pelle Rap

How to tell if Pelle Pelle is vintage from the logo

Pelle Pelle has been a significant player in the urban fashion scene since its inception. Known for its unique designs and bold branding, the evolution of its logo can help determine the vintage of a Pelle Pelle piece. Here’s how to identify Pelle Pelle’s vintage clothing based on their logos from different eras.

1990s to now Pelle Pelle logo

• This era’s logo features the iconic “pp” emblem above the “pelle pelle” text.
• The emblem is characterized by its stylized, symmetrical design, with horizontal lines running through the letters.
• The text “pelle pelle” uses a bold, geometric font, which is distinct and easily recognizable.
• This logo represents the brand’s strong presence and its appeal in the urban fashion market during the 90s and beyond.

1990s to now Pelle Pelle logo

2000s to now Pelle Pelle logo

• The logo from the 2000s onward simplifies the design, focusing on the “pelle pelle” text without the emblem.
• The font remains bold but adopts a sleeker, more modern appearance.
• This logo reflects Pelle Pelle’s adaptation to contemporary fashion trends while maintaining its distinctive identity.
• The removal of the emblem marks a shift towards a more minimalist and versatile branding approach.

2000s to now Pelle Pelle logo

How to tell if Pelle Pelle is vintage from the tags

The evolution of Pelle Pelle tags over the decades reflects the brand’s dynamic nature and its response to changing fashion trends. From the bold and straightforward designs of the early years to the more sophisticated and varied tags of later decades, Pelle Pelle’s tags are a testament to the brand’s enduring appeal.

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1980s vintage Pelle Pelle tags

• Bold “Pelle” lettering often in a sans-serif font.
• Inclusion of location names such as “New York” and “Milan.”
• Size information typically indicated on separate smaller tags beneath the main tag.

1980s Pelle Pelle tags

1990s vintage Pelle Pelle tags

• Introduction of the “Marc Buchanan” branding alongside “Pelle Pelle.”
• Rectangular tags with bold serif lettering and sometimes additional design elements like logos.
• Made in Korea tags become more common.
• Tags sometimes include phrases like “New York – Milan” to highlight the brand’s international presence.

1990s Pelle Pelle tags

2000s vintage Pelle Pelle tags

• More modern and diverse designs with the inclusion of both “Pelle Pelle” and “Marc Buchanan.”
• Tags often feature dark colors and bold fonts.
• Increased variety in tag shapes and sizes, including loop tags.
• Size and care information typically included on separate tags attached beneath the main label.

2000s Pelle Pelle tags