Pelle Pelle jackets are more than just outerwear—they’re a cultural statement. From their roots in the late 1970s to their peak in hip-hop fashion, these jackets have remained an iconic symbol of streetwear. With their bold designs, premium leather, and intricate embroidery, Pelle Pelle jackets have defined generations of urban fashion.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into Pelle Pelle’s journey, exploring its most influential designs over the decades, its impact on hip-hop culture, and why these jackets remain highly sought-after today.
1. Introduction: Pelle Pelle’s Journey from Niche to Iconic Status
Founded by Marc Buchanan in 1978, Pelle Pelle revolutionized urban fashion with its high-quality leather jackets. Originally inspired by graffiti art and hip-hop culture, the brand quickly became a must-have in the streets of Detroit, New York, and beyond.
Key Elements:
- Introduction to Pelle Pelle as a high-end streetwear brand
- Its rise in hip-hop culture and street fashion
- Signature use of premium leather, custom embroidery, and oversized fits
2. Marc Buchanan: The Designer Behind the Brand
Before Pelle Pelle became a household name, Marc Buchanan was already an innovator in fashion. Unlike other leather jacket brands, he introduced baggy fits, vibrant colorways, and graffiti-inspired graphics, creating a luxurious yet rebellious aesthetic.
Key Pelle Pelle Design Elements:
- Use of premium Italian leather
- Hand-stitched embroidery and bold logos
- Custom fur-lined collars, metal studs, and oversized patches
3. The Birth of Pelle Pelle: Early 80s and the Leather Revolution
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Pelle Pelle emerged as a game-changer in leather fashion. While most brands focused on traditional biker jackets, Pelle Pelle brought a streetwise edge with oversized fits, custom artwork, and luxury materials.
Notable 80s Pelle Pelle Jackets:
- Classic Bomber Leather Jacket (Minimalist yet sleek)
- Graffiti Art Series (Inspired by New York’s hip-hop scene)
- Early Detroit Designs (Handmade and limited edition)
4. The Golden Era: How the 90s Cemented Pelle Pelle’s Place in Hip-Hop
By the 1990s, Pelle Pelle jackets were worn by hip-hop legends and became a status symbol in streetwear culture. Rappers like Tupac, Biggie Smalls, and Nas were frequently spotted rocking oversized Pelle Pelle coats in music videos and concerts.
Why Pelle Pelle Dominated the 90s:
- Baggy fits that matched the hip-hop aesthetic
- Vibrant colors and graffiti elements
- Jackets featured large Pelle Pelle logos on the back
- Rappers, athletes, and streetwear icons made it a staple
5. The Most Recognizable Pelle Pelle Jackets from the 90s
During the 90s, Pelle Pelle released some of its most legendary designs, influencing streetwear fashion for years to come.
Top Pelle Pelle Jackets from the 90s:
- The Soda Club Jacket – Bright colors, oversized branding, a hip-hop classic.
- Graffiti Leather Jacket – Hand-painted elements and street art influence.
- Wool & Leather Varsity Jacket – A mix of streetwear and preppy aesthetics.
- Motorcycle-Inspired Jackets – Aggressive designs, often with studded details.
- NBA & NFL Collaboration Jackets – Exclusive team-themed releases.
6. Hip-Hop Icons and Their Signature Pelle Pelle Jackets
From Biggie’s all-white Pelle Pelle bomber to Tupac’s fur-lined leather, rappers made these jackets legendary. The brand’s influence was solidified in music videos, album covers, and performances.
Artists Who Rocked Pelle Pelle:
- Tupac Shakur – Known for his leather bombers and bold prints
- Notorious B.I.G. – Rocked custom Pelle Pelle designs
- Nas & Jay-Z – Frequently sported Pelle Pelle coats in the 90s
- 50 Cent & G-Unit – Popularized the brand in the early 2000s