Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear brand. It’s a movement, a voice, and a cultural representation of the neighborhoods that often get overlooked in the broader landscape of fashion. Rooted deeply in the streets of Los Angeles, Born X Raised tells a story of authenticity, struggle, heritage, and pride—crafted not in boardrooms or fashion houses, but in barbershops, backyards, and street corners.
Origins: A Tribute to the Neighborhood
Born X Raised was founded in 2013 by Spanto and 2Tone, two LA natives who saw their city changing rapidly. Gentrification was sweeping through historic neighborhoods, displacing families, and whitewashing culture. In response, the brand was born as a way to preserve and showcase the true essence of Los Angeles—the one lived by locals, not tourists.
The name itself—Born X Raised—serves as a badge of honor for those who are born into a city and shaped by its complexities. It’s about deep roots, generational pride, and a fierce sense of belonging. From the beginning, Born X Raised stood out by refusing to play by the rules of traditional streetwear. Instead of following trends, it created its own language.
A Visual Style With a Voice
The designs from Born X Raised are unmistakable. Often raw and unapologetic, their graphics carry messages that speak to community issues, cultural identity, and neighborhood pride. Their signature typography, color schemes, and iconography echo classic West Coast aesthetics—lowriders, murals, gang lettering, and cultural symbolism that outsiders may not fully understand, but locals feel deeply.
The brand embraces storytelling through clothing. Each Bornxraised hoodie drop feels like a page in a photo album, a snapshot of a specific time and place in LA’s social history. Whether it’s a tribute to local landmarks or a commentary on social justice, Born X Raised uses fashion as a canvas for truth-telling.
Collaborations That Stay True to Their Roots
While many brands chase celebrity endorsements and viral moments, Born X Raised has always taken a different path. Their collaborations—whether with major sports teams, other fashion labels, or artists—feel intentional, not commercial. Every partnership is an extension of the brand’s values and narrative.
One notable example is their collaborations with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Lakers. These collections didn’t just feature logos slapped onto hoodies; they were carefully crafted homages to the deep emotional connection between the teams and their communities. Born X Raised infused these pieces with storytelling that resonated with fans who don’t just support the team—they live and breathe it.
The Legacy of Spanto
Spanto, one of the brand’s co-founders, was more than just a creative force. He was the heart of Born X Raised. His vision came from personal experience, having grown up in Venice, a neighborhood now almost unrecognizable due to gentrification. Diagnosed with cancer in 2013—the same year the brand launched—Spanto’s fight paralleled the spirit of his company: resilient, raw, and real.
His influence is felt in every detail of the brand. Spanto’s story gave Born X Raised its soul. His health struggles, community activism, and love for his city added layers of meaning to the clothing. Tragically, Spanto passed away in 2023, but his legacy lives on in every design and every message the brand puts out into the world.
Cultural Impact Beyond Fashion
Born X Raised is not just selling T-shirts and jackets; it’s preserving culture. The brand captures the voice of those who have historically been left out of mainstream narratives. For many young people in Los Angeles and beyond, Born X Raised serves as a reminder that their stories matter.
The brand has also supported grassroots initiatives, community events, and social justice campaigns. Whether it’s raising funds for marginalized communities or speaking out against police brutality, Born X Raised uses its platform to uplift and advocate.
Their events often feel more like neighborhood reunions than brand activations. From cookouts to music showcases, they bring people together in real life, creating connections that go beyond social media.
Streetwear With Substance
In an era where streetwear has become increasingly commercial and homogenized, Born X Raised remains fiercely independent. They’ve maintained control over their vision, often releasing limited quantities and avoiding over-saturation. This deliberate approach has helped them build a loyal fanbase that respects the integrity of the brand.
Born X Raised doesn’t chase hype. They create work that means something, even if it doesn’t always fit the mold of what’s popular at the moment. That authenticity is what makes them stand out in a crowded space.
The Global Reach of Local Stories
What started as a hyper-local brand has found resonance worldwide. People from Tokyo to London wear Born X Raised not just because of the designs, but because of what the brand represents. It’s a symbol of loyalty, authenticity, and resilience—values that transcend geography.
For those outside LA, Born X Raised offers a window into a world that is often misrepresented or ignored. For those inside the city, it’s a mirror reflecting their reality with honesty and pride.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Born X Raised
As the brand continues to evolve, Born X Raised is poised to expand its influence even further. With a new generation discovering the brand and longtime supporters still riding for it, the future looks solid. While it will be difficult to fill the void left by Spanto, the team behind the brand has shown they understand the importance of honoring the past while building forward.
The mission remains unchanged: to tell real stories, represent real people, and protect cultural heritage through fashion. It’s not just about clothes—it’s about identity, legacy, and voice.
Conclusion: A Love Letter to Los Angeles
Born X Raised is more than fabric and thread—it’s a love letter to Los Angeles, written by the people who have lived its highs and lows. In a world where so much is mass-produced and soulless, this brand reminds us that there is still power in creating with meaning.
