Born X Raised is not just a clothing brand—it is a movement. Emerging from the streets of Los Angeles, the label has grown into a symbol of identity, authenticity, and defiance. With its unique mix of bold aesthetics, cultural commentary, and street credibility, Born X Raised has carved out a distinct space within the fashion world and the communities it represents.
The Origins of Born X Raised
Founded in 2013 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and 2Tone (Alex Erdmann), Born X Raised was born from necessity as much as vision. Spanto, a Venice native, came up with the idea while reflecting on the changes he saw happening in his neighborhood. Gentrification was pushing out the people and culture that had defined the area for decades, and he wanted to create something that preserved the roots of his city. Born X Raised became the answer.
The name itself is a declaration: “Born” speaks to origins and history, while “Raised” represents growth and evolution. It’s not just about where you’re from—it’s about how that place has shaped you. For Spanto and 2Tone, that place was Los Angeles, with all its beauty, complexity, and contradiction.
Los Angeles as a Living Muse
Few brands represent their hometown as thoroughly as Bornxraised hoodie does with Los Angeles. The city’s mosaic of cultures, its legacy of both struggle and celebration, and its fierce local pride all feed into the brand’s identity. Born X Raised doesn’t just reference LA—it embodies it.
From Venice Beach to South Central, the brand draws from real-life experiences, memories, and community bonds. Its designs frequently reference LA’s history, its Chicano culture, local sports teams, gang politics, and even street signage. Rather than filtering the city through a commercial lens, Born X Raised presents it raw and unedited. It’s a brand that tells the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Aesthetic and Message
Born X Raised’s design language is unapologetically bold. From gothic fonts and strong graphic statements to colorways that reflect West Coast heritage, each drop carries a sense of weight and purpose. There’s an emotional and intellectual depth behind the graphics, one that speaks to people who’ve lived the same truths as the founders.
More than just streetwear, the brand operates as a medium for cultural storytelling. The clothes speak for a generation raised in the friction between heritage and progress, especially those who have watched their neighborhoods change beyond recognition. The brand gives voice to those who often feel unheard, while still creating designs that feel modern and fresh.
Community First
A cornerstone of Born X Raised is its unwavering commitment to community. Spanto and 2Tone never positioned themselves above the people they grew up with. Instead, they used their platform to uplift those around them. Pop-up shops weren’t just commercial events; they were community gatherings. Brand campaigns featured friends and locals, not models. The brand was never just selling clothes—it was building a community.
One of the most telling examples of this ethos was their collaboration with the Los Angeles Lakers. Rather than simply slapping logos on hoodies, the project highlighted the connection between the team and the city. It was a celebration of local culture and identity through a lens that was deeply personal.
Tragedy and Legacy
In 2023, the Born X Raised community suffered a devastating loss with the death of co-founder Spanto. After battling cancer and continuing to work tirelessly through his illness, Spanto passed away, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, authenticity, and creativity. His passing hit the LA community hard, not just because of what he created, but because of who he was—a leader, an artist, and a voice for his people.
Spanto’s vision lives on in every design and release. His belief in representing the real Los Angeles—its underdogs, its unseen artists, its displaced families—continues to guide the brand’s direction. His memory has become a source of inspiration for those committed to keeping the brand’s mission alive.
Collaborations That Matter
While many streetwear brands chase hype through collaborations, Born X Raised has always approached partnerships with purpose. Whether it’s working with heritage sports franchises like the Dodgers or contemporary fashion platforms, each collaboration reflects mutual respect and shared values. The brand avoids gimmicks and instead uses each project to tell a meaningful story.
One of their most memorable collaborations was with Nike, which was delayed due to Spanto’s death. When it was finally released, it wasn’t just about sneakers—it was a tribute. The campaign was filled with emotion, remembering Spanto and honoring his contribution to culture. That kind of emotional resonance is rare in fashion and speaks to the depth Born X Raised brings to every project.
Impact on Fashion and Culture
Born X Raised is now recognized as one of the most authentic voices in American streetwear. Its success has shown that cultural specificity can resonate globally. The brand doesn’t water down its message for mass appeal—instead, it proves that the more true you are to your roots, the more powerful your impact can be.
The influence of Born X Raised reaches beyond clothing. It has sparked conversations about displacement, identity, and representation in both fashion and urban life. It has inspired young creators to tell their own stories without compromise. In a world of fast fashion and mass production, Born X Raised stands out as a label that values narrative, emotion, and legacy.
What the Future Holds
Though the loss of Spanto created an emotional void, the spirit of Born X Raised continues to thrive. Under the leadership of 2Tone and the extended team, the brand remains committed to its original mission. New collections are still deeply rooted in LA’s history, and the voice of the community remains at the center.
As the fashion world evolves, Born X Raised stands as a reminder of what makes streetwear powerful in the first place: truth. Not just in words, but in action. With each release, Born X Raised reinforces the idea that the most important thing a brand can offer is not just product—but purpose.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is more than a label—it’s a lifestyle, a protest, a celebration, and a legacy all wrapped into one. What started as a way to speak out against gentrification has become a global movement rooted in cultural pride and authenticity. From its unmistakable designs to its unwavering commitment to the people of Los Angeles, Born X Raised continues to be a powerful voice in both fashion and community.
