In a world where streetwear has become a global phenomenon, some brands go beyond fashion trends to tell real stories. One such brand is Born X Raised—an unapologetically authentic label that doesn’t just sell clothes but delivers culture. Born on the streets of Los Angeles, the brand has captured the essence of a city shaped by diversity, struggle, and pride. This is not just another fashion brand; it’s a symbol of identity for those who grew up with a deep connection to their community.
The Birth of a Movement
Born X Raised was founded in 2013 by Chris “Spanto” Printup and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann, two Los Angeles natives with a vision that ran deeper than streetwear. Spanto, raised in Venice, and 2Tone, from the East Side, were not looking to build a trendy clothing line. They wanted to create a platform that told the story of a disappearing Los Angeles—one filled with local heritage, cultural pride, and neighborhood loyalty.
Their shared frustration over the rapid gentrification of their hometown inspired them to take action. Communities were being erased, and with them, the history and voices of the people who built those neighborhoods. Born X Raised became their way to fight back. It was a voice for the underrepresented, a tribute to the old LA, and a bold statement against cultural erasure.
Authenticity Over Hype
One of the most compelling things about Born X Raised is its authenticity. In a world where many brands chase trends, this label stays rooted in storytelling. Each collection, slogan, and design draws from real-life experiences. Phrases like “Gentrification is Genocide” and “On the Turf” speak to the brand’s deep ties to the streets and the issues that impact local communities.
The designs often feature bold typography, old English fonts, Bornxraised hoodie and imagery that feels both rebellious and rooted in tradition. The visuals are not made to cater to a global audience—they are made for the people who know what it feels like to grow up in the heart of the city. That kind of raw truth can’t be faked.
More Than Fashion
Born X Raised has never been just about selling clothing. It’s about creating impact. The brand has made it a point to give back to the communities that shaped its founders. Whether it’s hosting local events, giving food to those in need, or providing platforms for young creatives, Born X Raised operates with purpose.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while many companies were cutting back, the brand doubled down on its community efforts. They organized food drives and partnered with nonprofits to help struggling families. These actions solidified Born X Raised not just as a clothing brand but as a movement grounded in loyalty and love for LA.
Collaborations with Purpose
While Born X Raised has gained popularity and partnered with major names, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Nike, and Converse, their collaborations are always intentional. Each partnership stays true to the brand’s voice. They don’t collaborate just for exposure—they do it to amplify culture.
Their work with the Dodgers, for example, wasn’t just a sports collab. It was a love letter to Los Angeles, blending streetwear with the city’s deep-rooted baseball legacy. Their limited drops always carry the same grit and storytelling, even when working with global giants.
Spanto’s Legacy
The heart and soul of Born X Raised came from Spanto, whose personal story shaped the direction and energy of the brand. From battling cancer to being deeply involved in his community, Spanto lived the reality the brand represents. His passing in 2023 was a huge loss—not only to the streetwear world but to the city of Los Angeles.
Despite this loss, the spirit of what he built continues to thrive. Born X Raised remains a powerful force that honors his vision, his pain, and his love for LA. The message lives on through every drop, every design, and every person who wears the brand with pride.
Cultural Influence and Legacy
Streetwear today often blurs the line between fashion and lifestyle, but Born X Raised is one of the rare brands that shaped that line rather than followed it. Its influence reaches beyond LA, resonating with people around the world who connect with themes of identity, belonging, and resistance.
It also inspired a new generation of designers and creatives to use their platforms with intention. Born X Raised taught the industry that you don’t have to sell out to succeed. You can stay true to your roots and still grow into a respected, global name.
The Future of Born X Raised
As the brand moves forward, its path is clear: stay true, stay grounded, and never forget where it came from. With 2Tone continuing to steer the vision, and the legacy of Spanto etched into its foundation, Born X Raised shows no signs of slowing down.
In a landscape where so many brands lose their way chasing money or mainstream attention, Born X Raised continues to stand tall. It’s for the people who come from something real. It’s for the neighborhoods that shaped them. And most of all, it’s for the culture that refuses to be erased.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is more than a name—it’s a declaration. It represents pride in your roots, loyalty to your city, and a commitment to authenticity in a world full of imitations. From the streets of Los Angeles to the global fashion stage, it has carved out a place not just in the market, but in the hearts of those who recognize its truth.
