LaRon Hickerson takes pop culture’s bold, yet traditional designs to transcending heights with NoRal Apparel. He gives insight on how his brand will continue to create a metamorphosis of style for everyday men to the hottest pop star.

What inspired your collection?
Inspiration for this collection was derived from bold fabrication (camo, neon tones) along with elements from our endless pop culture. Grounded by traditional design philosophies with modern vision, the NoRal Apparel Spring/Summer collection was born.

Is this your debut collection?
Actually the line has been active in the market since 2000 primarily for our swimwear apparel.

Who is your client?
The NoRal Apparel man is really anyone, and, that’s not a politically correct answer. It’s honest and true. A free thinker, who is confident and willing to take a risk for the sake of fashion.

If you could change one thing about your collection, what would it be?
I’d add a few more accessories and an additional tote bag.

Finish this sentence: If I knew then what I know now, I would ___________________.
I wouldn’t change anything at all, honestly. Trial and error along with learning from my mistakes have made for the best design concepts in the early years. If I knew now what I knew then, many of those now reworked designs wouldn’t exist.

What established designer inspires you?
Frankie Morello, Philip Plein and Dsquared.

If you could style for 3 male celebrities, who would they be and why?

1. Lenny Kravitz. Who wouldn’t?
2. Will.I.Am. His style is off the charts #nofashionboundaries!
3. Usher. I’ve always wanted to design for one of his tours! How badass would that be?

Being from the South, how was your transition to Los Angeles?
The transition to Los Angeles happened via Chicago, after I graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design. I, like many, was done with the harsh winters and needed the consistent sunshine, which brought on good vibes and limitless creativity.

Are you planning another collection?
I am planning several additions to Spring/Summer 2014 assortment, as swimwear is a market that’s always in demand. My angle will be to deliver on one of a kind swimwear, handcrafted to perfection. Providing our clients with innovative yet functional swimwear that dares to be better than store bought, and challenges the everyday ideal of the masculine silhouette.

LaRon Hickerson, wear can people buy your clothes?
www.noralapparel.com