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.
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Born X Raised was founded in 2013 by Spanto (the creative director) and 2tone (the graphic designer), both of whom have deep ties to Los Angeles. The brand was born out of a desire to represent and showcase the unique culture of the city, specifically the West Coast and its complex blend of street culture, skateboarding, graffiti, and a sense of rebellion. The duo’s initial focus was on creating apparel that resonated with the lifestyle of their friends and their community, which was very much influenced by their backgrounds and the cultural dynamics of LA. The name itself, “Born X Raised,” speaks to the founders' strong connection to Los Angeles and the sense of identity that they share with the city. The term “Born” refers to their roots in LA, while “Raised” highlights how their experiences, struggles, and triumphs shaped them into who they are today. This name encapsulates their dedication to honoring their upbringing and the sense of pride that comes with being from LA. The Aesthetic and Philosophy Behind the Brand Born X Raised’s aesthetic is deeply tied to the culture and visual language of Los Angeles. Their designs often incorporate bold graphics, symbolic imagery, and references to local neighborhoods and communities. This visual language has evolved over the years but remains rooted in a raw, gritty street culture that is synonymous with the city. Whether it’s through the use of text, iconic logos, or street art-inspired designs, Born X Raised has maintained an aesthetic that feels grounded in the streets while remaining highly creative and fashion-forward. One of the key features of the brand’s approach is its authenticity. Born X Raised has always maintained that their designs and ethos are deeply personal, and this transparency is one of the reasons the brand resonates so strongly with its audience. The founders have always been vocal about their experiences and the role of LA in shaping their work. This authenticity is also reflected in the brand's collaborations, limited-edition releases, and overall approach to marketing. Their designs often explore themes of personal identity, pride in one’s background, and the complexities of growing up in Los Angeles. For instance, Born X Raised’s use of neighborhood-specific references like the iconic "East LA" or "LA" logos speaks to the sense of community and pride that people in these areas feel. The brand often draws from the rich cultural tapestry of LA, incorporating elements of Chicano culture, skate culture, and street art, as well as nods to the city’s history of rebellion and nonconformity. Cultural Impact and Popularity Since its inception, Born X Raised has evolved into more than just a fashion label—it has become a cultural symbol for those who identify with the city’s unique street culture. The brand’s emphasis on local pride and its ability to authentically capture the essence of LA has made it particularly popular among young people who are drawn to the raw, unfiltered nature of the designs. Born X Raised has become a go-to label for individuals seeking to express their identity through fashion, and its popularity has only grown with time. The brand’s appeal extends beyond just Los Angeles, reaching people across the United States and internationally. This global reach can be attributed to the universal themes of self-expression and the desire for authenticity in a fashion world that can often feel overly commercialized. What sets Born X Raised apart from many other streetwear brands is its ability to create clothing that resonates with people on a deeper level. It’s not just about wearing a logo or brand name; it’s about connecting with a movement that represents a certain way of life. The brand has found its place at the intersection of streetwear, skate culture, and contemporary fashion, and its influence can be seen in how other brands approach storytelling and cultural representation in their designs. Collaborations and Expanding the Brand As Born X Raised gained traction, it began to collaborate with various well-known brands, further solidifying its position in the streetwear scene. These collaborations were often highly anticipated, as they offered a unique blend of Born X Raised’s distinctive LA-inspired designs with the influence and resources of larger companies. Some of the brand’s notable collaborations include partnerships with Nike, Vans, and other streetwear giants. Each collaboration helped to elevate the brand’s profile, while also maintaining the authenticity that has been at the heart of Born X Raised’s success. By collaborating with mainstream companies, Born X Raised was able to bring its unique vision to a wider audience without compromising its core values. These collaborations also served to highlight the brand’s cultural relevance, as it continues to be a key player in the ongoing evolution of streetwear. Additionally, Born X Raised has ventured into other areas, such as art and music, further cementing its cultural influence. The brand has partnered with local artists, musicians, and creatives to amplify its message and connect with communities outside of fashion. These collaborations have allowed Born X Raised to expand its influence and continue pushing boundaries in terms of both design and cultural relevance. Community and Legacy One of the most defining aspects of Born X Raised is its commitment to community. The founders have often spoken about how the brand was built for and by people who are proud of their roots and who want to share that pride with the world. The brand has created a sense of belonging for individuals who identify with the LA culture and its complexities. In a way, Born X Raised serves as a unifying force, bringing together people from different walks of life under the shared banner of Los Angeles pride. Beyond just creating clothing, Born X Raised has become a platform for amplifying voices within the community, particularly those that are often overlooked in mainstream fashion. The brand’s approach to storytelling has provided a space for individuals to share their own narratives, whether through art, music, or personal experiences. This sense of community and inclusivity has made Born X Raised more than just a fashion brand; it has become a cultural movement. As Born X Raised continues to grow and evolve, its legacy is already being cemented. The brand’s impact can be seen in the way it has shaped streetwear culture and its approach to blending fashion with personal storytelling. Born X Raised represents more than just a trend—it represents a lifestyle and a mindset that values authenticity, individuality, and a deep connection to one’s roots. In conclusion, Born X Raised is a brand that encapsulates the essence of Los Angeles—its culture, its people, and its stories. With its unique aesthetic, strong sense of community, and commitment to authenticity, Born X Raised has established itself as a powerful force in the streetwear world. As the brand continues to expand and influence, its legacy as a symbol of LA culture and pride will likely only grow stronger, resonating with future generations of creators, thinkers, and individuals who value the power of self-expression.
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