Born X Raised: The Streetwear Brand Bridging Fashion and LA Culture
Born X Raised: The Streetwear Brand Bridging Fashion and LA Culture
Blog Article
Born X Raised is not just a clothing brand; it's a reflection of Los Angeles' vibrant, sometimes tumultuous, cultural landscape. Founded by Spanto and 2Tone in 2013, this streetwear brand has gained a global following for its ability to blend raw, authentic designs with social commentary. From the iconic Born X Raised Hoodie to its standout Born X Raised Shirts, the brand's pieces resonate with a message of cultural preservation, resistance, and identity.
The Beginnings: Born X Raised and LA’s Neighborhoods
Born X Raised was born out of a desire to preserve the spirit of Los Angeles, particularly in the face of the city’s ever-growing gentrification. Spanto, the co-founder, grew up in Venice and saw firsthand how the neighborhoods he once knew were changing as new developments pushed out long-established communities. To keep the history and identity of these areas alive, Spanto and 2Tone launched Born X Raised.
The brand's name itself speaks to the importance of roots and belonging. It reflects the authenticity of being "born and raised" in LA, representing the people who have shaped the city’s culture over decades.
The Born X Raised Hoodie: A Symbol of Identity
Few items are as synonymous with the brand as the Born X Raised Hoodie. With bold typography, graphics that often pay homage to LA's rich street culture, and messages that resonate with the local community, the hoodie is more than just a fashion statement—it’s a symbol of identity.
Whether featuring intricate cityscapes, references to LA’s street art, or phrases that tap into the pulse of the city, the Born X Raised Hoodie speaks to those who feel connected to the city’s core. It’s not just about wearing something stylish; it’s about carrying a piece of LA’s history with you. The hoodies are known for their oversized fit and high-quality construction, making them both a fashion statement and a staple in streetwear culture.
Born X Raised Shirts: Simple, But Powerful
While hoodies might grab the most attention, Born X Raised Shirts are equally impactful. The shirts often feature minimalistic designs, usually bearing the brand's bold logo or a single graphic that carries significant meaning. What makes Born X Raised Shirts stand out is their subtle yet powerful ability to spark conversation. Whether it’s a nod to Venice Beach’s skate culture, a symbol of resistance against gentrification, or a simple phrase that represents LA pride, the shirts offer something more than just casual wear.
These shirts are versatile, making them easy to wear on any occasion while still delivering a message. Their understated designs allow for a variety of styles, and they’re often paired with other streetwear staples like jeans, jackets, and sneakers.
Born X Raised: A Voice for the Voiceless
At its core, Born X Raised isn’t just about making clothes—it’s about preserving a culture. The brand uses fashion as a medium to comment on the social and cultural shifts happening in Los Angeles. Gentrification, cultural erasure, and the displacement of communities are themes that run through nearly every design.
The founders, having experienced these changes firsthand, wanted to create something that stood up for the people who didn’t always have a voice in these conversations. Born X Raised uses its platform to represent those who feel left behind by rapid urban development and social change, giving them a sense of pride in their identity and heritage.
This commitment to culture makes Born X Raised unique in the streetwear space. While many brands chase trends, Born X Raised sticks to its roots, offering designs that resonate with a deeper purpose.
The Global Influence of Born X Raised
Although Born X Raised is deeply connected to Los Angeles, its influence has spread far beyond the city. The brand has been embraced by celebrities, athletes, and influencers, including A-listers like LeBron James, Nipsey Hussle, and Travis Scott. This mainstream attention has helped propel the brand into the global streetwear spotlight, yet it has never lost its local identity.
The Born X Raised Hoodie and Born X Raised Shirts have been seen on stages, in music videos, and at sporting events, making the brand a cultural icon in its own right. Yet despite its growing fame, Born X Raised continues to create pieces that reflect the soul of LA, ensuring that its core message remains intact.
Collaborations and Expanding Horizons
One of the reasons Born X Raised has maintained its authenticity while growing globally is its careful selection of collaborations. The brand has worked with other iconic names, such as Nike, on limited-edition collections that merge Born X Raised’s message with more commercial appeal. Even with these high-profile collaborations, the brand remains grounded in its mission of cultural preservation and storytelling.
Each collaboration stays true to Born X Raised’s original vision—whether it's through special edition Born X Raised Hoodies or exclusive Born X Raised Shirts, the designs maintain their cultural and social significance.
What’s Next for Born X Raised?
As the brand continues to evolve, its commitment to Los Angeles remains stronger than ever. While its collections often reflect changes in streetwear trends, they are always anchored in the brand's roots. Born X Raised’s future likely holds more collaborations and global expansion, but its mission to preserve LA’s culture will remain at the forefront of everything it does.
As gentrification continues to reshape the landscape of Los Angeles and other major cities, Born X Raised will undoubtedly continue to be a voice for those who feel displaced. Through fashion, the brand will carry on telling the stories of LA’s people, neighborhoods, and culture, ensuring that their influence lives on for future generations.
Conclusion
Born X Raised has grown into a globally recognized streetwear brand, but at its heart, it remains a tribute to Los Angeles and its rich cultural history. Through pieces like the Born X Raised Hoodie and Born X Raised Shirts, the brand tells the story of a city undergoing constant change while celebrating the communities that make it unique.
Born X Raised’s success lies in its ability to stay true to its roots, offering more than just fashion but a movement that represents the heart and soul of LA. For those who wear it, the brand is a symbol of pride, resistance, and cultural identity—a reminder that fashion can be both stylish and meaningful. Report this page