In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of streetwear, few brands manage to capture the true spirit of their city the way Born X Raised does for Los Angeles. From its gritty, authentic roots to its bold graphics and social commentary, the brand has carved out a unique identity that reflects the raw, unfiltered pulse of the streets. This isn’t just a clothing label; it’s a movement, a voice for those often overlooked, and a tribute to a city shaped by diversity, struggle, and pride.
Origins of the Brand
Born X Raised was founded in 2013 by Chris “Spanto” Printup and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann, two individuals who grew up on opposite sides of the Los Angeles experience. Spanto was raised in Venice, a neighborhood undergoing intense gentrification, while 2Tone came from Hollywood and brought a creative visual aesthetic to the table. Together, they combined their perspectives and pain to create something that felt real.
The brand’s name, Born X Raised, is more than a catchy phrase—it’s a statement. It reflects a loyalty to where you come from and a resistance to being erased by modernization, gentrification, and cultural shifts. Spanto, in particular, used the brand as a vehicle to express his experiences and the complexities of being Native American and Chicano in a rapidly changing city.
Identity Rooted in Authenticity
What sets Born X Raised apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. The brand does not follow trends; it sets them by staying true to its roots. Each collection is infused with messages about identity, culture, community, and resistance. You’ll often see references to LA’s distinct neighborhoods, Indigenous heritage, and Chicano art styles.
Rather than chasing the latest fashion aesthetics, Born X Raised has maintained a consistent voice and visual language that connects deeply with those who know the culture. It’s streetwear with a soul, born from lived experiences, not just cool graphics and limited drops.
Design Philosophy and Style
Born X Raised’s design style is a bold fusion of old-school West Coast aesthetics and provocative social commentary. The use of gothic typography, LA street slang, and nods to lowrider culture give the pieces a rugged, unmistakably local flavor. Their slogans, such as “Gentrification is Genocide” and “On the Turf,” carry a deeper weight, making their clothes conversation starters as much as fashion statements.
The apparel itself ranges from classic streetwear staples—hoodies, tees, snapbacks—to more experimental pieces that feature custom cuts and high-quality fabrics. But regardless of the item, the underlying tone remains the same: this is for the people of the city, by the people of the city.
Community and Cultural Impact
More than just a fashion brand, Born X Raised is a cultural institution. It consistently highlights local communities and real people instead of celebrity models or influencers. Photo shoots often feature residents from Spanto’s own neighborhood, showcasing a mix of ages, ethnicities, and walks of life.
One of the most notable aspects of the brand is its involvement in giving back. Born X Raised has hosted events, collaborated with community organizations, and used its platform to raise awareness about important issues—from Indigenous rights to anti-gentrification efforts.
This focus on community became even more powerful when Spanto revealed his battle with cancer. Despite his illness, he continued to work, design, and build the brand while being a symbol of resilience and hope. His personal story added another layer of emotional connection for fans and supporters around the world.
Collaborations and Expansion
Though Born X Raised began as a hyper-local brand, its message resonated far beyond Los Angeles. Over the years, it has collaborated with major brands like Converse, the NFL, and even the LA Dodgers. These collaborations allowed Born X Raised to maintain its core identity while gaining mainstream recognition.
Each partnership has been carefully curated to align with the brand’s values. Rather than cashing in on popularity, Born X Raised has ensured that its collaborations serve to amplify its voice, not dilute it. This balance between growth and integrity is a major reason for the brand’s sustained relevance.
The Legacy of Spanto
In 2023, the fashion and streetwear world was shaken by the passing of Chris Spanto. His death marked the end of an era, but his influence lives on. He wasn’t just a designer—he was a storyteller, a cultural archivist, and a beacon for those whose stories are often ignored.
Spanto’s legacy is baked into every stitch of Born X Raised. The brand continues to honor his vision and dedication to the people of LA. Even in his absence, his voice echoes through the designs, messages, and mission that continue to guide the brand.
Why Born X Raised Matters Today
In a time when streetwear has become a billion-dollar industry filled with cookie-cutter designs and hype-driven drops, Born X Raised remains refreshingly real. It reminds people that fashion can be more than just style—it can be substance. It can be a medium for preserving culture, telling stories, and fighting back against invisibility.
Born X Raised matters because it is one of the few brands that never forgot where it came from. It wears its scars proudly and turns pain into art. For those who grew up watching their neighborhoods change, or feeling unseen by mainstream media, Born X Raised is a powerful reminder that their stories matter too.
Looking Ahead
The future of Born X Raised will no doubt be shaped by the foundation Spanto and 2Tone built—a foundation of truth, pride, and relentless creativity. While Spanto’s absence is deeply felt, the brand continues to evolve, keeping his vision alive and relevant for a new generation.
As the streetwear industry continues to shift, Born X Raised stands as a benchmark for how to stay grounded while still growing. It’s a lesson in not selling out, in knowing who you are, and in using your platform to uplift your community instead of just capitalizing on it.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is more than a name on a hoodie. It’s a battle cry, a love letter, and a mirror reflecting the soul of Los Angeles. From its gritty beginnings to its place on the global stage, the brand has never lost touch with its roots. That’s what makes it special—and that’s why it will continue to resonate for years to come.
In a world full of fast fashion and fleeting trends, Born X Raised is here to stay—firmly planted, fiercely loyal, and forever on the turf.
