Born X Raised isn’t just another streetwear brand—it’s a tribute to Los Angeles and the struggles faced by its residents. Founded by Spanto and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann in 2013, the brand reflects the city's culture, resistance, and transformation. Through its distinctive designs and community-focused ethos, Born X Raised has captured the hearts of both streetwear aficionados and those deeply connected to the cultural landscape of L.A.
A Brand with Roots: The Story Behind Born X Raised
Spanto grew up in Venice, Los Angeles, a neighborhood that has undergone massive changes due to gentrification. After surviving personal hardships, including incarceration, Spanto wanted to create a brand that would reflect the pain and beauty of his city. Born X Raised represents a way of holding onto a disappearing culture, celebrating the essence of neighborhoods that are at risk of being lost.
The name itself is a nod to those who are born and raised in communities that have shaped who they are, where tradition and culture remain deeply embedded despite constant change. Born X Raised apparel tells these stories, creating a connection to the city’s heritage that cannot be overlooked.
The Statement Pieces: Born X Raised Hoodies and Shirts
Among its most recognized items, the **Born X Raised Hoodie** stands out for its bold designs and cultural significance. These hoodies often feature simple yet impactful fonts, slogans, and symbols that speak directly to L.A.’s street culture. Each hoodie embodies more than just fashion; it represents a movement that encourages wearers to take pride in their roots.
Equally important are the **Born X Raised Shirts**, which showcase striking graphic designs and phrases that reflect the essence of the brand’s mission. These shirts have a timeless quality, managing to stay relevant regardless of the ever-changing trends in fashion. Many of the shirt designs are minimalistic, yet their powerful messages resonate with anyone familiar with the experience of cultural displacement and gentrification.
Born X Raised and the Fight Against Gentrification
At the heart of Born X Raised’s philosophy is resistance. As Los Angeles continues to face rapid gentrification, displacing long-standing communities, the brand fights back by highlighting the stories of those most affected. Spanto has been vocal about the cultural erasure happening in L.A., and the brand’s designs reflect this struggle, offering a platform for communities that refuse to be forgotten.
Their clothing often draws from symbols and imagery specific to L.A., making it a brand that feels deeply personal to the city. By wearing Born X Raised apparel, customers feel connected to a broader narrative—one of resilience, pride, and the refusal to be erased by economic shifts.
Born X Raised: More Than Just Clothing
What sets Born X Raised apart from other streetwear brands is its commitment to authenticity and community. While many brands focus on aesthetics alone, Born X Raised uses its platform to raise awareness about social issues and build relationships with marginalized communities. Their collaborations are often with local artists and designers, further anchoring the brand in the culture of L.A.
Born X Raised’s reach extends beyond Los Angeles. The brand has become a symbol of resistance to gentrification in other cities worldwide, as streetwear enthusiasts resonate with its deeper message. The iconic Born X Raised Hoodie and Shirts have even been worn by celebrities and influencers, spreading the brand’s cultural message to a broader audience.
The Future of Born X Raised in the Streetwear Landscape
As streetwear continues to evolve, Born X Raised remains steadfast in its vision. The brand has no intention of losing touch with its roots, continuing to create collections that reflect the real stories of the communities it represents. Born X Raised will likely continue to collaborate with like-minded artists, expand its social justice efforts, and keep producing clothing that serves as a medium for cultural storytelling.
The **Born X Raised Hoodies** and **Born X Raised Shirts** will continue to hold their place as must-have items for those who not only appreciate streetwear but also seek to be part of a movement that celebrates resilience in the face of change.
Conclusion: Wearing Culture, Wearing Pride
Born X Raised is more than just a streetwear label—it’s a reminder that fashion can tell a powerful story. The brand continues to honor the underrepresented voices of Los Angeles, allowing wearers to express their cultural pride and resistance through clothing. Whether it's through a Born X Raised Hoodie or a Born X Raised Shirt, you’re not just wearing an item of clothing—you’re wearing the legacy of a community that refuses to be erased.
In an era where fashion often feels disconnected from real life, Born X Raised serves as a reminder that clothing can carry history, identity, and meaning.