Born X Raised is much more than a streetwear brand; it’s a cultural movement rooted deeply in the city of Los Angeles. Established in 2013 by Chris "Spanto" Printup and Alex "2Tone" Erdmann, Born X Raised emerged as a direct response to the gentrification and cultural shifts taking place in L.A. neighborhoods. It has since grown into a respected name in the world of fashion and streetwear, celebrated not just for its designs but for the message it carries — one of pride, resistance, and authenticity.

The name “Born X Raised” itself is a declaration. It speaks to the founders’ love for their hometown and their desire to preserve its history and identity amidst rapid change. Both Spanto and 2Tone grew up in Venice, a part of Los Angeles that, like many others, has experienced intense transformation due to development and rising property values. This loss of cultural ground inspired them to start a brand that would not only celebrate the people and stories of their communities but also push back against the erasure of native Angelenos.

From its earliest collections, Born X Raised distinguished itself by embracing symbols, language, and themes specific to L.A.'s working-class and street communities. The brand’s aesthetic is bold and unapologetic, featuring gothic fonts, religious imagery, and slogans that feel like they were pulled straight from the city’s walls. There’s an authenticity to Born X Raised that resonates deeply with those who understand the subcultures it represents — from Chicano heritage to skateboarding, gang culture, and lowrider scenes.

One of Born X Raised’s most powerful attributes is its ability to balance nostalgia with contemporary relevance. While its designs often pay homage to past eras and traditions, they do so in a way that feels modern and fresh. This connection to both the past and present is part of what has helped the brand garner a loyal following. Whether through T-shirts emblazoned with phrases like "On the Turf" or collaborations that shine a light on local legends, every piece carries a story.

Collaborations have played a significant role in Born X Raised’s rise. The brand has partnered with major names like Nike, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the NHL, bringing its street-level sensibility to mainstream platforms. However, even as it steps into larger arenas, Born X Raised never loses sight of its roots. Each partnership is carefully chosen and executed in a way that stays true to the brand’s core mission: to represent L.A.'s real culture, not the sanitized version sold to tourists.

Perhaps what sets Born X Raised apart the most is its founders' personal investment in the brand's message. Spanto, in particular, brought a raw and deeply personal energy to the brand. Having experienced the hardships of street life, including prison time and a battle with cancer, Spanto infused Born X Raised with a survivalist spirit. His journey from the margins of society to the helm of a successful fashion label serves as an inspiration to many. Tragically, Spanto passed away in 2023, but his legacy continues to shape the brand and the community he championed.

The brand’s influence extends beyond clothing. Born X Raised has become a symbol for those who resist cultural displacement and fight to protect their heritage. This makes it particularly significant in cities like Los Angeles, where the tension between old neighborhoods and new developments is a daily reality. Through its products, campaigns, and community events, Born X Raised speaks directly to those who have lived through these changes and still hold pride in where they come from.

Events have also become a key part of the Born X Raised experience. The brand has hosted community gatherings, pop-up shops, and parties that bring together people from different walks of life but with shared roots in L.A.'s culture. These events aren’t just marketing ploys; they are celebrations of the people and stories that Born X Raised is built upon. They reinforce the brand’s position not just as a label, but as a community pillar.

In terms of design, Born X Raised operates with a sharp sense of identity. Their use of old English typography, references to local sports teams, and nods to religious iconography give their clothes a signature look that is instantly recognizable. This visual language connects directly to L.A.'s street culture — a place where aesthetics carry deep meaning and history. By channeling these elements, Born X Raised creates garments that feel like badges of honor for those who wear them.

Born X Raised’s success has also highlighted the growing power of streetwear as a global force. What began as local expression is now part of an international conversation about identity, culture, and fashion. However, unlike many brands that dilute their message as they scale up, Born X Raised has remained fiercely local in its spirit, even as its reach extends worldwide. Its global fans are drawn not just to the clothes, but to the story and authenticity that radiates from every piece.

The brand's resilience and continued relevance are also testaments to its careful stewardship. Following Spanto’s passing, 2Tone and the team have remained committed to preserving the brand's original vision. Rather than expanding recklessly, they have stayed selective and deliberate in their growth, ensuring that Born X Raised remains a mouthpiece for L.A.'s original inhabitants rather than becoming another corporate streetwear machine.

In sum, Born X Raised represents more than fashion — it represents a fight for cultural survival, a celebration of community, and a statement of pride in one's roots. Its designs act as visual narratives of Los Angeles’ true streets, and its collaborations serve as bridges between marginalized voices and larger platforms. Whether through a limited-edition sneaker, a community barbecue, or a hoodie that reads like a love letter to L.A., Born X Raised continues to embody the spirit of a city that refuses to forget where it came from.