Born x Raised is more than just a streetwear brand; it is a cultural movement that embodies the spirit and soul of Los Angeles. Since its inception, Born x Raised has been a powerful voice for the city’s diverse communities, reflecting the complexities, struggles, and triumphs of life in Los Angeles. Through its unique designs and authentic storytelling, the brand has become a symbol of identity, resilience, and pride for those who call the city home. This article explores the origins, design philosophy, cultural impact, and future of https://bornxraisedsite.com/ , highlighting what makes this brand a standout in the world of streetwear.
The Origins of Born x Raised
Born x Raised was founded in 2011 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and 2Tone (Alex Erdmann), two natives of Los Angeles who wanted to create a brand that represented their city’s true essence. Both founders had deep roots in the city’s neighborhoods and were acutely aware of the cultural shifts and gentrification that were transforming Los Angeles. They wanted to capture the authenticity of the communities they grew up in and push back against the commercialization and homogenization of their city.
The brand’s name, “Born x Raised,” reflects this mission. It is a nod to the people who were born and raised in Los Angeles, those who have lived through the city’s changes and have maintained their cultural identity despite the pressures of gentrification. The brand was initially a grassroots effort, with Spanto and 2Tone using their personal experiences and connections to create a line of clothing that resonated with the people they grew up with. The first collection, released in 2013, was an instant hit, quickly gaining a loyal following among the city’s youth.
Design Philosophy and Aesthetic
Born x Raised’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in the culture and history of Los Angeles. The brand’s aesthetic is a blend of old-school cholo culture, skateboarding, and the city’s rich art scene. This unique mix is reflected in the brand’s use of bold typography, vintage-inspired graphics, and a color palette that often includes shades of black, white, and navy blue.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Born x Raised’s designs is its use of traditional tattoo-style fonts, often combined with images of roses, skulls, and other symbols associated with Los Angeles’ street culture. These elements create a sense of nostalgia, evoking memories of a time when the city was less commercialized and more connected to its roots.
The brand’s clothing often features slogans and phrases that speak directly to the experiences of those who have grown up in Los Angeles. Phrases like “City of God” and “Death and Taxes” are common, reflecting the harsh realities of life in a city where beauty and brutality coexist. Through its designs, Born x Raised tells the story of Los Angeles from the perspective of those who have lived it, offering a counter-narrative to the glamorous, Hollywood-centric image often associated with the city.
Cultural Impact and Community Connection
Born x Raised’s impact goes beyond fashion; it is a brand that is deeply connected to the communities it represents. Spanto and 2Tone have always been committed to giving back to the neighborhoods they grew up in, using the brand as a platform to raise awareness about issues like gentrification, displacement, and cultural erasure. This commitment to social justice has made Born x Raised a respected voice in Los Angeles, not just in fashion, but in the broader cultural landscape.
The brand’s community involvement is evident in its collaborations and partnerships. Born x Raised has worked with local artists, musicians, and organizations to create products and events that benefit the city’s marginalized communities. For example, the brand has partnered with the Los Angeles Public Library to create a line of clothing that celebrates the city’s rich literary history, with proceeds going towards literacy programs for underserved youth.
In addition to its charitable efforts, Born x Raised has also used its platform to celebrate the cultural diversity of Los Angeles. The brand often features people from different backgrounds in its campaigns, highlighting the city’s multiculturalism and the unique contributions of each community. This emphasis on inclusivity and representation has resonated with a wide audience, making Born x Raised a brand that speaks to people from all walks of life.
The Influence of Born x Raised in Streetwear
Born x Raised has had a significant influence on the streetwear scene, both in Los Angeles and beyond. The brand’s authentic approach to storytelling and design has set it apart from other streetwear labels, many of which are more focused on trends and commercial appeal. Born x Raised’s commitment to staying true to its roots has earned it a loyal following, with fans who appreciate the brand’s integrity and cultural significance.
The brand’s influence can be seen in the way other streetwear labels have begun to incorporate more storytelling and cultural references into their designs. Born x Raised has shown that there is a market for clothing that goes beyond aesthetics, offering products that have meaning and resonate with people on a deeper level. This shift towards more thoughtful, culturally-driven design is one of the brand’s lasting contributions to the streetwear industry.
Born x Raised’s impact is also evident in its collaborations with major brands and artists. The brand has worked with names like Nike, Converse, and Union Los Angeles, bringing its unique perspective to larger audiences. These collaborations have helped to elevate Born x Raised’s profile, while also allowing the brand to maintain its authenticity and connection to its roots.
The Future of Born x Raised
As Born x Raised continues to grow, its founders remain committed to their original mission of representing the true spirit of Los Angeles. The brand has plans to expand its product offerings, exploring new categories such as home goods and accessories, while continuing to release limited-edition clothing that tells the story of the city.
One of the key challenges for Born x Raised moving forward will be maintaining its authenticity in the face of increasing commercialization. However, Spanto and 2Tone have shown that they are dedicated to preserving the brand’s identity, even as it gains more recognition and success. By staying true to their values and continuing to give back to their community, Born x Raised is poised to remain a powerful voice in both the streetwear industry and the cultural landscape of Los Angeles.
Conclusion
Born x Raised is more than just a clothing brand; it is a symbol of resilience, identity, and pride for the people of Los Angeles. Through its unique designs and authentic storytelling, the brand has captured the essence of the city, offering a counter-narrative to the Hollywood glamour that often defines Los Angeles. With its deep connection to the community and commitment to social justice, Born x Raised has become a respected voice in the streetwear world, influencing not just fashion, but the broader culture as well. As the brand continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the city it was born from, and on the world of fashion as a whole.