Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear label; it is a cultural movement born from the very soul of Los Angeles. Founded in 2013 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and 2Tone (Alex Erdmann), the brand reflects deep-rooted narratives from neighborhoods that often go unheard. Through fashion, Born X Raised tells stories of community, identity, and the gritty beauty of life in LA’s historically underserved districts.
Its rise isn’t just about t-shirts and logos. It is about authenticity, resistance, pride, and paying homage to roots in an era where many brands lean heavily on borrowed culture. Born X Raised offers an unfiltered perspective, standing as a mouthpiece for the city’s raw and real corners.
The Founders and the Message
Chris Printup, better known as Spanto, grew up in Venice, California. His journey was not that of a traditional fashion mogul. He lived the life the brand talks about—one filled with challenges, street culture, and a strong sense of loyalty to where he came from. His partner, 2Tone, brought his creative vision and design expertise to the table, helping translate that lived experience into wearable expression.
The name "Born X Raised" reflects both a claim and a commitment—claiming your city, your upbringing, and all the pain, pride, and lessons that come with it. The 'X' in the middle suggests a resistance to being polished, censored, or reshaped to fit into mainstream molds.
The brand’s earliest pieces carried messages that only insiders could fully understand. That wasn’t accidental. It was exclusive by design—meant for those who knew, those who lived it. And yet, it resonated widely, catching attention beyond the LA borders.
Streetwear with Soul
Streetwear often lives in the tension between rebellion and commercial appeal. Born X Raised manages to walk that line with integrity. Their designs don’t just follow trends—they start conversations. Graphics Bornxraised hoodie feature cultural references, slogans, and iconography that reflect LA’s diverse neighborhoods and histories, especially from communities often ignored by larger fashion houses.
What sets Born X Raised apart is how rooted it is in real stories. Whether it’s a tribute to a local figure, a social issue, or a historical nod, their collections feel like living artifacts. Every release becomes a snapshot of the moment—an honest reflection rather than a manufactured image.
Collaborations That Matter
While many brands chase high-profile collaborations for clout, Born X Raised chooses theirs with care. Their partnerships extend across both fashion and lifestyle, but always with a cultural or emotional purpose.
Their work with sports teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, the NFL, and even Nike isn't just about branding—it’s about identity. They don't simply slap their logo on a jersey; they bring their aesthetic and history into it, transforming those pieces into cultural statements. These collaborations resonate deeply with fans who see themselves represented in the designs.
Even with big-name partnerships, Born X Raised refuses to lose its essence. It still speaks from the streets and for the streets, staying true to its mission: to celebrate and elevate the real LA.
The Loss of Spanto and Legacy in Motion
In 2023, Spanto passed away after a battle with cancer. His death sent shockwaves through the fashion and streetwear community. But his legacy, energy, and influence continue to fuel Born X Raised’s momentum.
Spanto’s vision was always about longevity. He wasn’t interested in quick trends or shallow success. His goal was to make something timeless, something that would outlive him—and that’s exactly what Born X Raised is doing today.
Following his passing, the brand leaned even harder into its purpose, honoring Spanto through releases that reflect his values, personality, and the city he loved. Tributes poured in not only from LA locals but from celebrities, athletes, and fellow designers who had been touched by Spanto’s work and spirit.
The Role of Community
One of the key factors behind the brand’s lasting power is its relationship with the community. Born X Raised doesn’t just design for a demographic; it engages directly with it. Whether it’s hosting events in local parks, pop-up shops in underserved neighborhoods, or giveaways to support struggling families, the brand stays physically and emotionally connected to its base.
This community-first approach sets it apart in a fashion world often criticized for cultural appropriation and elitism. Born X Raised flips that script by ensuring that its success always feeds back into the very people who made it possible.
Representing a Changing Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a city in flux. Gentrification, displacement, and economic shifts are reshaping its neighborhoods at a rapid pace. Amid this transformation, Born X Raised serves as a reminder of the city’s roots. It documents a version of LA that risks being erased—one of family-owned taco spots, backyard parties, murals on every corner, and streets with layered history.
For many, wearing Born X Raised is a political act. It says, "We’re still here." It claims space in a city that sometimes forgets its own heartbeat. And for outsiders, the brand offers a glimpse into the deeper, more complex layers of LA life beyond the palm trees and Hollywood sign.
Staying True While Growing Strong
Despite its underground roots, Born X Raised has seen significant commercial success. But it hasn’t diluted its message for mass appeal. That tightrope walk—growing while staying true—is rare in streetwear. Each collection still feels personal, every campaign still feels intentional.
The team has also expanded its influence into digital media, film, and even social activism. Yet, at its core, the brand remains a tribute to its original mission: honoring the community that raised it.
What’s Next for Born X Raised?
With the loss of one of its founding visionaries, the future of Born X Raised will be guided by a deeper sense of responsibility. The brand is now a torchbearer, continuing to carry forward Spanto’s dream. And if the past decade is any indication, it will do so with courage, creativity, and authenticity.
There’s no doubt that Born X Raised has become a permanent fixture in the streetwear canon. But more than that, it stands as a symbol of what can happen when fashion is used to tell the truth—raw, proud, and unapologetically local.
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