From Prison Wear to Couture: Raquel Allegra’s Story

By: Rosangelica Cardenas, Blush Boutique

The evolution of fashion happens with every change in season.

We lust over the must-haves for the fall and winter, and the to-die-for pieces for the spring and summer. We try to always be mindful of the classic designs of fashion icons like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, and Dior — just to name a few.

Their amazing designs guide us in the right direction when it comes to changes in trend or season. They grace the cover and pages of all the fashion magazines and set the bar for many fashion designers – including designer Raquel Allegra, whom I recently learned all about.

Instagram | @raquelallegra

Some of you fashionistas may know who she is and some of you may not. But with no formal training, she stayed true to her creativity and allowed herself to take the journey she was destined for.

Allegra is an L.A. fashion designer that made a name for herself in the fashion industry, standing right next to legends. Stars such as Kate Moss, Anne Hathaway and Mary-Kate Olsen have all worn her designs. She has a strong following around the world that continues to grow. Her designs have often been seen in fashion magazines like Elle and Vogue.

Allegra has quite a unique story on how she started in the fashion industry. Her first designs were used t-shirts from the Los Angeles County Jail. Believe it or not, she was able to turn prison wear into couture. Her main resource was a recycling plant that has the exclusive rights to everything that comes out of the Los Angeles County Jail for both men and women. Raquel would hand select shirts herself and would give them a complete makeover.

Instagram | @raquelallegra

Her style is best described as bohemian with recycled fabrics and textures. I truly love her simplistic style and designs. I appreciate the fashion-forward take on her pieces, while keeping everything very organic. She’s now moving on to hand-dying chiffon and printed linen.

Allegra’s designs can now be found at many high-end department stores like Barney’s, where she gained her experience in the retail industry.

“Fashionistas, remember that it is not what you are trained to do but what you are destined for.  

Follow your heart and allow yourself to take the journey that you most desire.”

This article is a contribution by Rosangelica Cardenas, owner of Blush Boutique in Phoenix. Blush Boutique offers women’s apparel, shoes and accessories in unique styles suitable for any age. You can visit their official website at www.blushboutiqueaz.com, email them at blushboutiqueaz@yahoo.com or call 602.579.8725.

You can also stay connected through their social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.