Starting in 2002 out of Los Angeles CA, Crooks & Castles was created to make a brand that was a direct reflection of the LA street lifestyle. Founded by Dennis Calvero and Robert Panlilio, Crooks was crafted to embody their culture, their experience and their passion.
Fascinated by the mecca of american fashion and the individual styles of New York, Dennis moved to the east to broaden his craft and live a diverse atmosphere. Soon after a short hiatus the team relaunched Crooks in 2004 with the help from Hawaii's own in4mation and created 5&aDime distribution. A snowball effect took place and in 2007 Crooks & Castles is set to make their mark globally.
“At Crooks & Castles they have always routed 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 the villainous lifestyle. Gangs were everywwhere - 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. What caught their attention in the mid 90's was independent fashion/graphic brands.
After years of learning the in's & out's of the business by starting a brand without any knowledge of how to start or run a clothing company, they have finally come to this... "Crooks & Castles"! The concept was easy. "Crooks", criminals, pimps, hustlers, thieves, etc. And "Castles" those who got rich by becoming a crook.