Born X Raised: The Authentic Voice of LA Streetwear Culture
Born X Raised: The Authentic Voice of LA Streetwear Culture
Blog Article
Born X Raised has emerged as a streetwear brand that doesn't just dress people; it tells the story of Los Angeles, its neighborhoods, and its people. Founded by Spanto and 2Tone in 2013, this brand reflects a deep-rooted connection to LA's history, its communities, and the ongoing challenges of gentrification. From its iconic Born X Raised Hoodie to the staple Born X Raised Shirts, the brand has carved out a niche where fashion meets cultural preservation.
The Origins: Born Out of Cultural Resistance
Born X Raised wasn’t born out of a desire to follow trends—it came from a need to protect a way of life. Spanto, co-founder of the brand, grew up in Venice, a part of LA hit hard by gentrification. Watching the cultural fabric of his neighborhood slowly fade away due to rising housing prices and new developments, Spanto, alongside 2Tone, decided to create Born X Raised as a way to preserve the essence of his hometown.
The brand name, “Born X Raised,” signifies the importance of roots and belonging. It’s a statement that says, “I’m from here,” and celebrates the communities and traditions that make LA what it is. Born X Raised is more than a fashion label—it’s a cultural platform that represents those who’ve been marginalized by change.
Born X Raised Hoodie: A Streetwear Essential with Purpose
Among Born X Raised’s standout items is the Born X Raised Hoodie. This hoodie isn't just an article of clothing; it’s a symbol of identity, rebellion, and local pride. The hoodies feature bold typography, graphic illustrations, and strong statements that pay tribute to LA’s communities and history.
The designs, often a mix of street art, graffiti influences, and cultural references, create a distinct style that sets the brand apart from mainstream streetwear. Each Born X Raised Hoodie represents more than just comfort and warmth—it tells the story of a city that refuses to let its history be erased.
These hoodies have a relaxed fit, making them a go-to for streetwear enthusiasts, but their message and design set them apart as a cultural statement. Whether it’s a tribute to a specific neighborhood or a broader message about the social issues in LA, wearing a Born X Raised Hoodie signals solidarity with LA’s deep and diverse roots.
Born X Raised Shirts: Subtle Yet Powerful Statements
The Born X Raised Shirts are another core component of the brand’s lineup. While hoodies may capture attention with their bold designs, the shirts offer a subtler way to represent the brand’s ethos. Simple yet profound, these shirts often feature minimal graphics or slogans, but their impact is far from small.
These shirts are ideal for those who appreciate clean, wearable designs that still pack meaning. Whether featuring a simple logo or a symbolic image, Born X Raised Shirts are perfect for daily wear, offering a way to stay connected to LA’s street culture without needing a loud statement piece. The simplicity in design doesn’t overshadow the deep roots that Born X Raised taps into. Each shirt carries the weight of the brand’s mission: to represent those who built LA’s identity, even as it changes.
The Brand’s Message: Fashion as Cultural Preservation
What makes Born X Raised stand out from other streetwear brands is its commitment to cultural preservation. Spanto and 2Tone didn’t just create a brand for aesthetic purposes—they built it as a response to the cultural shifts taking place in Los Angeles. Gentrification, the displacement of communities, and the loss of local history are themes that run through the brand’s collections.
Born X Raised creates more than clothing; it provides a voice for those affected by these changes. Every Born X Raised Hoodie and Born X Raised Shirt serves as a reminder of the people and neighborhoods that have shaped LA’s identity. This focus on storytelling and activism makes the brand resonate with a wide audience, from locals who’ve seen their communities change to streetwear lovers across the globe.
Expanding Beyond LA: Global Influence, Local Roots
Though Born X Raised’s message is deeply tied to Los Angeles, the brand’s influence has spread far beyond the city. Thanks to collaborations with major brands like Nike and the support of high-profile celebrities such as LeBron James and Nipsey Hussle, Born X Raised has gained international recognition. Its Born X Raised Hoodies and Born X Raised Shirts are now spotted not only on the streets of LA but in cities around the world.
Despite its global reach, Born X Raised remains dedicated to its local roots. The brand continues to celebrate LA’s culture, whether it’s through limited-edition releases that pay homage to specific neighborhoods or collaborations with local artists. Born X Raised remains a brand with a mission, refusing to lose sight of the community-focused message that started it all.
Born X Raised Collaborations: Authenticity in Every Partnership
One of the key reasons for Born X Raised’s success is its thoughtful approach to collaborations. The brand doesn’t partner with just anyone—it selects projects that align with its vision. This includes working with brands that share a commitment to storytelling and cultural representation, such as Nike. Their collaborations have resulted in exclusive collections of Born X Raised Hoodies and Born X Raised Shirts, keeping the brand’s message of authenticity and local pride front and center.
Even with these high-profile collaborations, Born X Raised stays true to its core. Each collection reflects a blend of mainstream appeal with the cultural weight that has made the brand an LA staple.
What’s Next for Born X Raised?
As Born X Raised continues to evolve, its mission remains the same: to celebrate and protect LA’s cultural heritage. Future collections will likely continue to reflect the ongoing changes in the city, offering both new designs and deeper messages about the importance of community and identity.
Born X Raised will remain a voice for those who feel disconnected or left behind by LA’s rapid growth, ensuring that the city’s rich history is never forgotten.
Conclusion: Born X Raised as a Movement
Born X Raised is more than just a brand—it’s a cultural movement that speaks to the heart of Los Angeles. Whether through the Born X Raised Hoodie or the Born X Raised Shirts, the brand tells the story of a city facing constant change while honoring the communities that have shaped it. With each collection, Born X Raised offers more than fashion—it provides a platform for cultural preservation and community pride, making it one of the most authentic and impactful streetwear brands today. Report this page