Born X Raised isn’t just a streetwear brand—it’s a cultural expression. Founded in 2013 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and 2Tone, Born X Raised emerged as a deeply personal response to the changing landscape of Los Angeles. As the city began to shift due to gentrification and the displacement of long-time communities, the founders created the brand to reflect the authenticity and pride of their roots.
Every design, campaign, and collaboration speaks to the city’s unique identity, especially its underserved neighborhoods. The brand isn’t about riding trends—it’s about standing for something real. Born X Raised represents loyalty to heritage, pride in place, and a refusal to compromise identity for mass appeal.
A Raw and Real Design Philosophy
The aesthetic of Born X Raised is bold, unapologetic, and full of symbolism. Their clothing often features gothic fonts, cultural references, and powerful phrases that speak to identity, resistance, and community. This approach sets them apart in a streetwear landscape that often leans on mainstream styles.
Their early pieces prominently displayed messages like “Gentrification is Genocide,” turning fashion into a political and cultural statement. While many brands play it safe, Born X Raised chooses to make you think, question, and feel.
Rather than designing from a boardroom, they draw inspiration from lived experience. Bornxraised hoodie Whether it’s the murals of Venice, lowrider culture, or neighborhood memorials, their graphics tell stories that resonate with those who understand the city on a visceral level.
From Local Roots to Global Reach
Though Born X Raised started with a hyperlocal identity, it didn’t take long for it to gain attention far beyond Los Angeles. The authenticity behind the brand attracted a loyal following, not just among skaters and locals but also among celebrities, musicians, and athletes.
Collaborations played a big part in the brand’s rise. Working with major names like the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Lakers, and Nike, Born X Raised managed to keep its voice intact while expanding its visibility. Each of these collaborations felt meaningful because they stayed true to the brand’s essence.
What sets them apart is that even as they’ve grown, they haven’t watered down their message. They’ve maintained their sense of self, refusing to become a mass-market brand. Instead, they focus on quality, story, and relevance to their audience.
Honoring Community and History
For Born X Raised, clothing is just one piece of the puzzle. The deeper mission has always been about honoring the past and protecting the future of communities under threat. This means giving back, amplifying local voices, and creating space for people who often get overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Spanto, in particular, brought a deeply emotional connection to the brand. As a cancer survivor and someone who lived through the hard realities of street life, his perspective was rooted in survival and resilience. When he passed away in 2023, the brand and the city mourned not just a designer, but a voice for the voiceless.
His legacy lives on in every piece the brand releases. It’s not just fashion—it’s a tribute to the streets that raised him, the people who inspired him, and the culture that shaped him.
Born X Raised and the Power of Storytelling
What makes Born X Raised special isn’t just the clothes—it’s the story behind them. Each drop is infused with emotion, history, and a purpose beyond profit. Their campaigns often include short films, community events, or limited edition releases that carry deep meaning.
Unlike many streetwear brands that pump out releases for hype, Born X Raised takes its time. They drop when they’re ready, not when the market expects it. This method builds anticipation and keeps the brand authentic. It also ensures that every release has intention behind it.
In an era where so much fashion feels disposable, Born X Raised offers something lasting: connection. Their storytelling resonates because it comes from real experiences, not marketing strategy.
The Role of Culture in Their Success
Culture isn’t just a theme for Born X Raised—it’s the foundation. From Chicano heritage to LA’s skate scene, from West Coast rap to mural art, the brand draws heavily from the diverse cultural mix that defines Los Angeles. But rather than appropriating it, they honor it.
This cultural grounding gives the brand credibility. People can tell when something is real, and Born X Raised passes that test. They’ve become cultural curators, highlighting voices, symbols, and ideas that might otherwise be erased or forgotten.
They don’t just sell to their community—they stand with it. That level of commitment shows in everything they do, from their social media presence to their collaborations and events.
Challenges and Staying Independent
Being an independent brand with a strong message comes with its share of challenges. Born X Raised has faced hurdles, from limited production capacity to personal tragedies. But through it all, they’ve stayed committed to their vision.
Their refusal to sell out or conform has likely cost them easy profits, but it’s also what earned them deep respect. In today’s world, authenticity is rare—and that’s what Born X Raised offers in abundance.
The brand has also navigated the changing landscape of streetwear with skill. While others chase trends, Born X Raised builds movements. Their connection with fans goes beyond fashion—it’s about shared identity and collective pride.
The Future of Born X Raised
With Spanto’s passing, the future of Born X Raised enters a new chapter. But all signs point to a brand that is more committed than ever to its mission. Co-founder 2Tone, the team, and the community around them are carrying the torch, ensuring that the brand stays true to its original vision.
New releases continue to sell out. Their collaborations remain meaningful. And their place in the cultural conversation is as relevant as ever. Born X Raised has never been just about clothing—it’s about preserving culture, representing the underrepresented, and staying rooted in truth.