A huge part of the Michael Raymond brand is skateboarding. Its influence is quite evident in my designs. Skateboarding was my first love and remains a passion. So, when I set out to find my dream collaborator it was natural to seek out someone in the skateboarding world.
I had been impressed with the vertical skateboarder, Lizzie Armanto, for the last couple of years. I became a fan of her cool style, and fearlessness on the ramps. As my team and I began to research more closely we realized that not only was Lizzie one of the best skaters in the world, but she was quickly becoming one of its more unique and important figures. She has never attempted to sell out on her image, and has always let skateboarding and her nonchalant but determined personality speak for itself. MR requirements.
Together Lizzie and I crafted our first collaboration - a series of eclectic pieces that speak to our combined love of skateboarding, octopuses, and uncompromised beauty... L.A. x M.R.
