Born X Raised: A Culture-First Brand Rooted in Los Angeles

Born X Raised is not just another streetwear brand. It is a cultural movement born out of deep loyalty to its roots in Los Angeles. Founded in 2013 by Chris "Spanto" Printup and Alex "2Tone" Erdmann, Born X Raised emerged as a voice for the underrepresented and often overlooked communities of LA. Unlike many fashion labels that borrow from street culture, Born X Raised lives it, breathes it, and represents it with authenticity and pride.

The Origins and Mission

The story behind Born X Raised is deeply personal. Spanto, a native of Venice, California, started the brand with a vision to honor his city and preserve the local culture that was rapidly being erased by gentrification. The name "Born X Raised" itself speaks to being shaped by a place and a community—a badge of honor worn by those who have lived through the city's transformations.

Spanto’s upbringing was filled with both hardship and love, deeply tied to the streets of LA. When he launched the brand, he wasn’t trying to make a quick buck—he was trying to make a statement. That raw and unapologetic perspective is what has driven Born X Raised from a grassroots passion project to a respected and recognized force in fashion and street culture.

A Brand With a Message

What sets Born X Raised apart from other streetwear labels is its commitment to messaging. Every drop, every design, and every campaign carries weight. Whether it’s a reflection on the displacement of native Angelenos, a nod to local heritage, or a tribute to fallen friends, the brand never strays from its core message of cultural preservation and pride.

The brand has been especially vocal about issues like gentrification, police brutality, and racial injustice. Instead of following trends, Born X Raised uses fashion as a canvas for storytelling. It gives voice to communities that are often silenced or misrepresented. It’s not just about selling clothes—it’s about telling the truth, no matter how uncomfortable.

Unique Aesthetic and Style

Born X Raised has a signature look that blends Chicano culture, 90s West Coast flavor, and punk rock energy. The designs often incorporate Old English fonts, gothic artwork, and raw photography. It's gritty, real, and unmistakably LA. From oversized graphic tees to limited-run collaborations, every piece feels like it belongs in the streets it represents.

The brand's color palette often mirrors the urban environment—concrete grays, deep blacks, rich blues, and bold reds. But more than just colors and cuts, there’s a mood to Born X Raised clothing: defiant, loyal, and grounded. It doesn’t scream for attention with flash—it commands it with meaning.

Collaborations and Influence

Over the years,  Bornxraised hoodie has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the fashion and entertainment world, from Nike and Converse to the Los Angeles Dodgers. But even when working with large corporations, the brand remains fiercely independent in its identity. It never dilutes its core message for mass appeal.

These collaborations have brought Born X Raised to a global stage, but the brand continues to stay true to its local roots. Each partnership is carefully chosen and deeply tied to the culture the brand represents. It’s not about chasing clout—it’s about creating a platform where stories and symbols of LA can shine.

The influence of Born X Raised extends far beyond clothing. It’s a brand that has become part of LA’s social fabric, often participating in community outreach, charity work, and activism. It gives back because it came from the community, and it hasn’t forgotten that.

The Legacy of Spanto

Tragically, co-founder Spanto passed away in 2023 after a long battle with cancer. His death was a significant loss not only to the brand but to the cultural fabric of Los Angeles. Spanto was more than a designer—he was a symbol of resilience, love for one’s city, and the power of speaking truth.

Even after his passing, his spirit lives on through Born X Raised. The brand continues to honor his vision, pushing forward with projects that reflect his love for LA and his commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless. Spanto’s legacy is stitched into every garment, every campaign, and every decision the brand makes.

Born X Raised and the Modern Streetwear Scene

In an era where streetwear has become a multi-billion-dollar industry, authenticity is rare. Many brands chase hype, driven by algorithms and influencer culture. Born X Raised stands in contrast. It doesn’t play by the same rules. It doesn’t water down its identity to cater to the masses.

Instead, it has become a touchstone for what streetwear can be when it’s rooted in purpose. Younger generations look to Born X Raised not just for style, but for a sense of belonging. It’s a brand that speaks to people who understand that clothes can be political, personal, and powerful all at once.

Community Before Commerce

A defining trait of Born X Raised is its commitment to community. The brand has hosted countless events across Los Angeles—from art shows to back-to-school giveaways. These aren't just PR moves; they are genuine efforts to uplift the neighborhoods that raised the brand’s founders.

This ethos of giving back is rare in an industry dominated by sales figures and viral moments. For Born X Raised, community isn’t a marketing angle. It’s the foundation. The brand treats its customers like family and its city like a sacred home.

Looking Ahead

As Born X Raised continues to evolve, it carries with it the weight of its origins and the memory of its visionary founder. But it also looks forward, ready to expand its impact without compromising its message. The future of the brand isn’t just about more drops or bigger collaborations—it’s about deeper roots and wider influence.

With a new generation discovering the brand and longtime supporters still standing strong, Born X Raised is poised to remain a vital force in both fashion and culture. It proves that staying true to where you come from isn’t just admirable—it’s powerful.

Conclusion

Born X Raised is more than a brand. It’s a movement, a tribute, and a reminder of what it means to stay rooted in your identity. From the streets of Venice to the global fashion stage, it has carved out a space that honors its past while boldly shaping the future.