In the vast world of streetwear, where brands constantly emerge and fade, Born X Raised has carved out a unique and enduring space. Emerging from the gritty streets of Los Angeles, this label represents more than just fashion—it’s a movement, a cultural expression, and a deep-rooted narrative about identity, struggle, and pride. The story of Born X Raised is one of authenticity, resilience, and a raw love for the city that birthed it.
The Origins of Born X Raised
Born X Raised was founded in 2013 by Chris “Spanto” Printup and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann. Both founders were born and raised in Los Angeles, and their deep roots in the city’s neighborhoods heavily influenced the brand’s direction. It wasn’t started in a corporate boardroom or launched by influencers riding trends. It was born from a desire to protect and represent a culture that was being pushed out by gentrification and modernization.
The idea behind the brand was deeply personal. For Spanto, who grew up in Venice, the rapid gentrification of his hometown hit close to home. Families and communities that had been there for generations were being priced out and erased. Born X Raised became a means of resistance—an effort to preserve and pay homage to the culture that raised him.
The Message Behind the Brand
What sets Born X Raised apart from many other streetwear brands is its unapologetic attitude and commitment to telling the truth. The clothing often carries powerful statements—some humorous, others intense—but always rooted in honesty. Phrases like “Gentrification is Genocide” and “On the Turf” are not just slogans; they are rallying cries and declarations of identity.
Born X Raised doesn’t chase clout. It doesn’t rely on celebrity endorsements or seasonal drops to stay relevant. Instead, it builds everything around the authenticity of its message. The designs are gritty, sometimes confrontational, and always reflective of the real-life experiences of the people they represent.
Cultural Impact and Community Involvement
Bornxraised hoodie has never positioned itself as a traditional fashion brand. Its identity is inseparable from the city it represents. From early on, the brand engaged in projects that gave back to its community. Whether through charitable events, collaborations with local artists, or speaking out on social justice issues, Born X Raised has always been more than just clothing.
One of the most powerful aspects of the brand is how it has created a platform for underrepresented voices. It doesn’t just talk about Los Angeles—it brings the city’s culture to life through visuals, film, photography, and collaborations that highlight the people who make LA what it is. From the Chicano community to skateboarders and lowrider crews, the brand has elevated these groups and shone a light on the beauty of their cultures.
Collaborations and Creative Vision
Born X Raised has teamed up with several high-profile names over the years, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Nike, and the NFL. However, each collaboration is carefully curated to align with the brand’s core identity. These partnerships never feel like money grabs. Instead, they serve as authentic expressions of culture, often blending the aesthetic of Born X Raised with the legacy of the collaborating institution.
The artistic direction of Born X Raised is sharp, with visuals that feel more like street poetry than product promotion. From video lookbooks shot in LA’s toughest neighborhoods to campaign shoots that use real locals instead of models, every piece of content carries weight. You can sense the pain, pride, and passion behind it all.
Tragedy and Legacy
In 2023, tragedy struck when co-founder Spanto passed away after a long battle with cancer. His death was a huge loss not only for the streetwear community but also for Los Angeles as a whole. Spanto had become a symbol of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. His passing sent ripples through the fashion world, and tributes poured in from artists, designers, and fans.
Even in his absence, Spanto’s influence continues to guide the brand. The team behind Born X Raised has vowed to carry on his vision, honoring his legacy by continuing to create clothing that stands for something. His spirit lives on in every design, every campaign, and every statement piece that the brand releases.
A Brand That Speaks for the Streets
Born X Raised speaks for those who often go unheard. It tells the stories of people whose neighborhoods have been bulldozed and rebuilt, whose cultures have been commodified, and whose voices have been ignored. It doesn’t romanticize the struggle, but it doesn’t shy away from it either. It lays it bare, embracing both the beauty and the pain of growing up in a city like Los Angeles.
This honesty has earned the brand a fiercely loyal following. From the streets of LA to fashion hubs across the world, people connect with the raw energy and cultural depth that Born X Raised delivers. In an industry that often prioritizes aesthetics over substance, this brand flips the script.
Looking to the Future
As Born X Raised moves into the future, it remains rooted in its original mission. There’s a continued focus on storytelling, on community, and on staying true to its voice. The streetwear scene may evolve, trends may shift, but Born X Raised isn’t going anywhere. It’s not a brand that bends to the market—it’s a brand that shapes the market by reminding it where it came from.
New collections are expected to keep pushing boundaries, both creatively and politically. The team continues to invest in local initiatives, building on the foundation that Spanto and 2Tone laid years ago. There’s also a growing interest in expanding the message beyond Los Angeles, exploring other cities and communities facing similar challenges.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is more than a name stitched onto a T-shirt or hoodie. It’s a testament to the people and places that often go overlooked in mainstream culture. It’s about honoring the past, representing the present, and building a future that doesn’t forget its roots.
In a time when authenticity is rare and mass production rules the industry, Born X Raised stands as a beacon for realness. It reminds us that fashion can be political, emotional, and deeply personal. Most of all, it shows that the strongest brands are the ones that come from the heart.
