Born X Raised: The Soul of Streetwear with a Los Angeles Legacy
In the ever-evolving world of streetwear, trends rise and fall like waves, but certain names leave a permanent imprint on the culture. Born X Raised is one of those rare brands. Born out of loyalty to its roots, shaped by authentic street culture, and fiercely protective of its community, Born X Raised is more than a fashion label—it’s a statement. With a deep connection to Los Angeles and a clear voice for those often overlooked, the brand has carved out a legacy that resonates far beyond clothing racks.
The Origins: Venice Roots and a Purpose
Born X Raised was founded in 2013 by Spanto and 2Tone, Bornxraised hoodie lifelong Angelenos with a deep love for their city. The idea wasn’t simply to make clothes; it was about creating something that stood up for a disappearing version of Los Angeles—one that represented real neighborhoods, real people, and raw stories. As gentrification swept through communities like Venice, Born X Raised became a loud and unapologetic voice for the locals.
The name “Born X Raised” wasn’t chosen lightly. It captures the pride of growing up in a city, being shaped by it, and still standing tall despite the changes. The brand’s early collections drew inspiration from the streets, old English fonts, and gang-influenced aesthetics, reflecting the harsh yet beautiful world its founders knew so well.
More Than Fashion: A Cultural Movement
Born X Raised has always been about more than just clothes. From the start, the brand positioned itself as a cultural platform. Through photo essays, videos, and collaborations, it told stories that mainstream fashion often ignored. Every T-shirt, hoodie, or jacket felt like a piece of commentary—on race, gentrification, pride, and survival.
Spanto, the brand’s co-founder, played a pivotal role in shaping its vision. His own life experiences—including incarceration and personal loss—infused the brand with a level of authenticity that simply can’t be faked. Born X Raised didn’t just sell an image—it shared real life.
As the brand grew, it never strayed from its roots. Whether it was a campaign shot at Venice Beach or a video featuring local skaters and artists, the focus remained on the people who made LA what it is. The clothes became uniforms for the proud and the unheard—those who lived the stories behind the slogans.
Collaborations That Matter
In the world of streetwear, collaborations can make or break a brand. But Born X Raised has always approached them differently. Instead of chasing hype for hype’s sake, it chose partners that aligned with its vision. Collaborations with brands like Converse, the LA Dodgers, and even the NFL were all shaped by local pride and storytelling.
One of the most talked-about collaborations was with the Los Angeles Dodgers. For many, it wasn’t just about baseball—it was about reclaiming identity. The pieces combined team pride with the unmistakable edge of Born X Raised’s designs, resulting in something that felt both nostalgic and revolutionary. It showed the power of collaboration when done with heart.
Style with Substance
What sets Born X Raised apart from many other streetwear brands is its deep sense of purpose. The designs are bold, often provocative, but always grounded in real emotion. Whether it’s a message about social justice or a tribute to the founder’s heritage, there’s always something deeper behind the fabric.
The brand’s signature styles include oversized graphics, gothic lettering, and color palettes that reflect LA’s neighborhoods—from the dusty grays of alleyways to the sun-washed pinks of late afternoons. But behind the aesthetics is a sense of resistance. These clothes aren’t just stylish; they stand for something.
Born X Raised also plays with contradictions. The tough, aggressive designs are often paired with messages of unity, love, and community. It’s a brand that challenges both fashion norms and social narratives, reminding its wearers that you can be hard and soft, angry and hopeful, all at once.
Facing Loss and Continuing the Mission
In 2023, tragedy struck the Born X Raised family when co-founder Spanto passed away after a long battle with cancer. His death sent shockwaves through the streetwear community. More than a designer, he was seen as a visionary, a fighter, and a true son of Los Angeles.
His passing marked a pivotal moment for the brand. Many wondered how it would continue without his leadership. But Born X Raised responded in the only way it knew how—by honoring his legacy through continued dedication to its mission. The following collections became even more personal, often referencing Spanto’s journey and celebrating the culture he fought so hard to protect.
Rather than slowing down, the brand seemed to double its efforts. Every release carried the weight of memory, love, and respect. In doing so, Born X Raised proved that it wasn’t just one man’s vision—it was a movement built to last.
A Voice for the Margins
In today’s fashion landscape, authenticity is often marketed but rarely lived. Born X Raised, however, lives it every day. It gives voice to the margins—whether it’s Indigenous communities, formerly incarcerated individuals, or neighborhoods forgotten by city maps. That voice is raw, emotional, and fiercely loyal.
What sets Born X Raised apart is that it doesn’t try to be for everyone. It speaks to a very specific audience: the people who understand struggle, pride, and identity. And by doing so, it has become something far more powerful than a fashion label. It has become a community.
The brand also uses its platform for social activism. From raising awareness about systemic inequality to supporting local charities, Born X Raised understands that style and substance are not mutually exclusive. Its work often blurs the line between fashion and resistance, reminding the world that streetwear started as a form of rebellion—and still is.
Looking Ahead
As Born X Raised moves forward, its role in shaping the future of streetwear remains undeniable. The brand continues to evolve while staying true to its origins. It’s not just about trends or popularity—it’s about making a statement that resonates.
With each new collection, Born X Raised expands its influence, reaching people far beyond Los Angeles. Yet it never forgets where it came from. That connection to place, history, and pain is what gives the brand its edge—and its soul.
While others may chase the next big thing, Born X Raised remains grounded in something timeless: realness. In a world where so much is manufactured, this brand stands out for its honesty.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is not just a streetwear brand—it’s a cultural icon forged from the streets of Los Angeles. It carries the stories of those who are often left out of fashion conversations and turns them into powerful statements. With a foundation built on love, pain, and pride, Born X Raised represents a kind of authenticity that cannot be replicated. Its journey is far from over, and the mark it leaves on street culture will only grow stronger with time.
