In the world of streetwear, authenticity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s everything. Few brands embody this principle more than Born X Raised, a Los Angeles-based label that has carved out a loyal following through its unapologetically local roots, bold aesthetics, and raw storytelling. Born X Raised (often stylized as BornXRaised or BXR) is not just a clothing brand; it’s a cultural movement. It’s a love letter to Los Angeles, especially the parts that mainstream narratives often leave out.
The Origins: Made in Venice, Forged in Loss
Born X Raised was founded in 2013 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and 2Tone (Alex Erdmann), two native Angelenos with deep roots in the city’s diverse and sometimes turbulent cultural landscape. The idea behind the brand was born from a sense of frustration—frustration over the gentrification of their hometown, the erasure of local culture, and the lack of representation of real LA in fashion and media.
The name “Born X Raised” itself is a statement. It reflects pride, identity, and survival. It’s about being born into a city that’s rich in culture but often riddled with struggle, and being raised by that city in a way that shapes your entire worldview.
Spanto’s journey was particularly poignant. Diagnosed with terminal cancer in the early days of the brand, he channeled his energy into the brand with a fierce sense of urgency. Against all odds, he went into remission and continued to build something that resonated far beyond his own community. Tragically, Spanto passed away in 2023, but his legacy lives on through every piece of clothing, every mural, and every story told through Born X Raised.
Aesthetic and Design Philosophy
Born X Raised’s design language is steeped in the visual lexicon of Los Angeles. The typography often borrows from old English fonts used in gang graffiti, signage, and lowrider culture. Their color palettes are unapologetically bold—blacks, whites, blood reds, Dodger blues—each telling its own story.
But Bornxraised hoodie beyond just aesthetics, the designs are messages. Shirts emblazoned with phrases like “Gentrification Is Genocide” or “City of Angels” are not just trendy slogans; they are declarations of identity and resistance. Born X Raised is as much about political and cultural commentary as it is about fashion. That balance between style and substance is a big part of what sets the brand apart.
Not Just Clothes—A Culture
What makes Born X Raised truly unique is how it functions beyond just the apparel space. The brand has deep roots in music, art, sports, and activism. Whether it’s collaborating with the LA Rams or dropping limited runs tied to local events and holidays, Born X Raised keeps one foot firmly planted in its community.
Its pop-up shops are more like cultural gatherings than retail spaces. They often happen in neighborhoods where the founders grew up and are intentionally designed to include the locals. Food, music, and conversation are just as important as the clothes being sold. This approach has helped foster a loyal community that sees Born X Raised not just as a brand, but as a cultural institution.
Collaborations: Always Intentional
Born X Raised has worked with some of the biggest names in fashion, sports, and music. From Nike and Converse to the Dodgers and the Rams, their collaborations are always grounded in storytelling and purpose. These aren’t just cash grabs or hype drops—they’re extensions of the brand’s mission to represent LA’s marginalized communities on a global scale.
One of the most talked-about collaborations was with Nike in 2023, which included a unique SB Dunk Low. The shoe became an instant classic, not just for its design but for what it represented: a merging of grassroots identity with global recognition.
Legacy and Impact
Born X Raised has done more than just sell clothes; it has sparked conversations. In an industry that often profits off of the culture without giving back, BXR stands out as a brand that remains committed to its roots. Its impact is most visible in LA, where murals bearing its slogans dot the city, and where you can see its designs on everyone from skaters and artists to athletes and musicians.
But the brand’s influence stretches far beyond California. Born X Raised has become a symbol of pride for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider in their own city. Its ethos resonates with people from all over the world who understand what it means to come from somewhere that’s being overlooked, erased, or misunderstood.
The Future of Born X Raised
With the passing of Spanto, many wondered what would become of the brand. But if anything, his death only galvanized the community and the team behind BXR. They’ve made it clear that the mission continues. In fact, it’s stronger than ever.
Born X Raised is expanding its reach while staying true to its origins. There are talks of more international drops, deeper community engagement projects, and more storytelling through film and digital media. But the soul of the brand will always remain in Venice, in the alleys and murals of LA, and in the legacy of a man who turned his pain into purpose.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is more than a fashion label—it’s a powerful narrative stitched into every piece of fabric. It’s about place, identity, resistance, and pride. It doesn’t chase trends; it sets them. It doesn’t cater to the mainstream; it speaks to those who see the world differently.
In an era where authenticity can’t be faked, Born X Raised is the real deal. It stands as a testament to the idea that when you stay true to where you come from, the world will eventually take notice.
