Born X Raised: A Voice of Los Angeles Street Culture

Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand—it’s a cultural statement rooted in the heart of Los Angeles. Founded in 2013 by Chris “Spanto” Printup and his partner Alex “2Tone” Erdmann, Born X Raised has become a voice for the city’s marginalized communities, paying homage to neighborhoods, traditions, and identities often overlooked by mainstream fashion.

Spanto, born and raised in Venice, California, carried deep pride for his Chicano roots and the authentic street culture that shaped his upbringing. His vision for Born X Raised stemmed from a desire to preserve and celebrate that heritage in a rapidly gentrifying Los Angeles, where the old neighborhoods and their unique histories were being pushed aside. With 2Tone’s creative input and shared commitment, the duo built a brand that would serve as a love letter to the city they called home.

At its core, Born X Raised is about representing authenticity. The brand’s designs are heavily inspired by LA’s diverse subcultures, from Chicano gang art to lowrider aesthetics, and from old English typography to graffiti motifs. These references aren’t used superficially—they're deeply personal and intentional, serving as markers of identity and resistance against cultural erasure. Spanto and 2Tone set out to ensure that the brand was more than a fashion label; they wanted it to act as a living archive of Los Angeles street life.

The name Born X Raised itself is a statement of pride in origin and upbringing. It echoes the loyalty and deep roots many Angelenos feel toward their communities, especially in areas affected by gentrification and displacement. The brand’s early slogans, like “On the Turf,” emphasized this groundedness, speaking directly to those who grew up navigating the complex social landscapes of LA's streets.

From its inception, Born X Raised set itself apart by maintaining a strong commitment to its community. It wasn’t unusual to see the brand hosting events in local neighborhoods, supporting grassroots initiatives, or collaborating with other artists and organizations that shared its vision. These efforts made the brand a respected institution within Los Angeles rather than an outsider exploiting street culture for profit.

Design-wise, Born X Raised embodies a raw, unapologetic aesthetic. Its clothing often features bold, confrontational graphics and provocative phrases that challenge the viewer while signaling allegiance to a specific cultural background. The brand frequently uses black and white palettes with splashes of vibrant color, echoing the stark contrasts found in street art and urban landscapes. This distinctive style has helped it maintain an identity that feels genuine and untamed, even as it has grown in popularity.

Collaborations have also been a significant part of Born X Raised's rise. The brand has teamed up with major names like Nike, Converse, and the Los Angeles Dodgers, bringing its streetwise edge to a wider audience while maintaining its core values. Each partnership is carefully curated to ensure that it resonates with the brand’s identity and doesn’t dilute its message. These collaborations often sell out quickly, a testament to the loyal following Born X Raised has cultivated.

Despite its success, the brand has always retained an underdog spirit. This is partly due to Spanto’s personal journey, which includes overcoming significant challenges, including a battle with cancer. His resilience and commitment to his vision have infused the brand with an energy that resonates deeply with people who understand struggle and perseverance.

Another layer to Born X Raised's appeal is its role as a cultural bridge. It speaks to the intersections of race, class, and identity in Los Angeles, a city known for its beauty but also its divisions. By spotlighting the experiences of communities often pushed to the margins, the brand challenges dominant narratives about what LA is and who it belongs to. In doing so, it has become an emblem of resistance and pride for many.

The impact of Born X Raised extends beyond fashion. It has influenced art, music, and even activism, as its messaging often touches on themes of displacement, cultural pride, and community solidarity. The brand’s presence at major events and in collaborations with artists from various disciplines underscores its role as a cultural force, not just a clothing label.

In recent years, Born X Raised has expanded its reach, gaining international recognition while staying grounded in its local roots. The brand continues to produce collections that reflect the evolving landscape of Los Angeles and the enduring spirit of its people. Whether through limited releases, pop-up shops in iconic LA locations, or collaborations that bring together different facets of the city's culture, Born X Raised remains committed to its mission.

At a time when many streetwear brands have become commodified and detached from their origins, Born X Raised stands out for its unwavering dedication to authenticity. It represents a community-first approach, where fashion serves as a vehicle for storytelling and cultural preservation rather than mere trend-following.

Ultimately, Born X Raised is a brand with a soul. It's an homage to a city that is as beautiful as it is complicated, and to the people who have fought to maintain their place in it. Through its bold designs, community engagement, and cultural commentary, it continues to honor the spirit of Los Angeles—its streets, its struggles, and its enduring resilience.