Born x Raised is a streetwear brand that has cemented itself as a cultural cornerstone in the fashion world. Established in 2013, https://bornxraisedsite.com/ embodies the essence of Los Angeles, weaving the city’s history, diversity, and community spirit into its designs. The brand, co-founded by Spanto (Chris Printup) and 2Tone, tells the story of LA’s ever-changing landscape, blending nostalgia for the city’s past with a fresh take on streetwear.
The Origins of Born x Raised
The story of Born x Raised begins with its founder, Spanto, whose deep connection to Los Angeles heavily influenced the brand’s creation. Spanto grew up in Venice, a neighborhood that has undergone significant gentrification, and his experiences in a changing city sparked the desire to create something that would honor the authenticity of LA’s roots. The brand’s name, “Born x Raised,” speaks directly to this, symbolizing loyalty to the city’s native culture amidst the sweeping changes caused by gentrification.
The brand was born out of Spanto’s need to preserve and celebrate the local communities and street culture that made Los Angeles what it is today. Together with co-founder 2Tone, the duo launched Born x Raised, channeling their frustration with the city’s changing identity into a brand that gives a voice to the marginalized and celebrates the gritty, unapologetic spirit of LA.
Los Angeles at the Core
Born x Raised is more than just a streetwear label; it’s a tribute to Los Angeles’ complex identity. The brand draws heavily from the city’s rich cultural history, paying homage to the communities that have shaped its streets, from the Chicano culture to the skate scene to the world of lowrider cars. Each collection taps into this deep well of LA’s cultural diversity, creating clothing that feels authentic to the city’s past and present.
The designs often feature references to LA’s neighborhoods, gangs, and street art, with graphics that resonate with those familiar with the city’s true spirit. Whether it’s a graphic tee with old English fonts or a hoodie emblazoned with images of LA landmarks, Born x Raised is rooted in telling the city’s story from the perspective of those who have lived it. For Spanto and 2Tone, the brand serves as a platform to remind people of the LA that existed before gentrification, and it’s that authenticity that has resonated so strongly with fans.
Aesthetic and Style
Born x Raised’s aesthetic is gritty, raw, and unapologetically real. The designs often feature bold fonts, striking graphics, and imagery that pays homage to the streets of Los Angeles. The brand frequently uses heavy contrasts—black and white color schemes are common, with sharp graphics that convey a sense of urgency and rebellion. Born x Raised doesn’t shy away from pushing boundaries, often incorporating provocative and politically charged imagery.
The use of old English lettering, a signature style in many of their collections, speaks to LA’s deep-rooted Chicano culture. Whether emblazoned on hoodies, tees, or hats, this lettering style is a nod to the cultural heritage that shaped Los Angeles’ street style, blending nostalgia with contemporary streetwear. Other common themes include references to graffiti art, lowrider car culture, and symbols that reflect the city’s diverse communities.
Despite its raw and rebellious aesthetic, Born x Raised maintains a level of sophistication and quality in its craftsmanship. The brand is known for its attention to detail, high-quality fabrics, and well-constructed pieces that feel as durable as they are stylish. It’s streetwear that feels both tough and refined, a perfect balance for the brand’s audience.
Gentrification and Resistance
One of the core messages of Born x Raised is resistance to gentrification. Gentrification has drastically transformed many neighborhoods in Los Angeles, displacing long-time residents and changing the cultural landscape. Spanto, who has witnessed the gentrification of Venice firsthand, uses Born x Raised as a form of protest against the erasure of his community’s history and identity.
Many of the brand’s designs feature slogans and imagery that reflect this sense of resistance. The clothing serves as a reminder that behind the glossy new developments, there’s a deeper, more authentic LA that is often overlooked. By wearing Born x Raised, fans of the brand align themselves with this resistance, proudly representing the city’s real culture and its people.
The brand has also taken an active role in giving back to the community. Spanto has been vocal about using Born x Raised as a platform to raise awareness for issues affecting Los Angeles’ marginalized communities. From hosting charity events to collaborating with local artists and organizations, Born x Raised continues to support the very communities it seeks to represent.
Collaborations and Cultural Impact
Born x Raised has grown into a cultural force, transcending the world of streetwear. The brand has collaborated with some of the biggest names in fashion, sports, and entertainment, including collaborations with Nike, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the LA Lakers. These collaborations have brought the brand’s message to a wider audience while staying true to its roots.
The collaboration with Nike, for instance, saw the creation of a limited-edition sneaker that combined Born x Raised’s streetwear aesthetic with Nike’s global appeal. The shoes sold out almost instantly, demonstrating the power of the brand and its ability to connect with both streetwear enthusiasts and mainstream fashion consumers.
Beyond clothing, Born x Raised has become a symbol of Los Angeles’ cultural identity. The brand has been worn by celebrities, athletes, and musicians, further amplifying its reach and influence. Despite its growing popularity, Born x Raised remains grounded in its mission to represent and uplift LA’s true culture.
The Legacy of Spanto
In 2023, the streetwear community mourned the loss of Spanto, who passed away at the age of 42. His death marked the end of an era for the brand, but his legacy continues to live on through Born x Raised. Spanto’s vision for the brand was always about more than just clothing—it was about preserving a culture, telling a story, and giving a voice to those who felt marginalized by the changing tides of the city.
Even after Spanto’s passing, Born x Raised remains a testament to his love for Los Angeles and his passion for street culture. The brand continues to release collections that stay true to his vision, ensuring that his legacy endures in every piece of clothing.
Conclusion
Born x Raised is more than just a streetwear brand—it’s a movement that captures the essence of Los Angeles’ true identity. With its bold designs, deep cultural roots, and commitment to resisting gentrification, the brand has carved out a unique space in the world of fashion. As it continues to grow, Born x Raised remains dedicated to its mission of honoring LA’s communities, making it a brand that resonates deeply with those who understand and appreciate the city’s history, diversity, and spirit.
