Born x Raised is more than just a clothing brand—it’s a cultural movement born from the heart of Los Angeles. Established in 2013 by Chris “Spanto” Printup and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann, the brand has carved out a powerful identity by championing authenticity, community, and the preservation of LA's disappearing neighborhoods. Through its unapologetic designs and deeply personal narrative, Born x Raised has evolved into a symbol of resilience and cultural pride, capturing the attention of streetwear enthusiasts and creatives around the world.

Origins and Founding Philosophy

The inception of Born x Raised came at a time when gentrification was rapidly transforming the urban landscape of Los Angeles. Communities that had long been home to generations of working-class families—especially Latino, Black, and Indigenous populations—were being displaced. Born from this backdrop, Spanto and 2Tone envisioned a brand that would serve as a voice for those being pushed to the margins, a tribute to the neighborhoods they grew up in and the cultures that shaped them.

Spanto, a Native American and Mexican American, was born and raised in Venice, California, a community historically rich in diversity but heavily impacted by gentrification. His lived experiences, including surviving a cancer diagnosis, instilled in him a deep commitment to storytelling through fashion. 2Tone, who grew up in Hollywood and Compton, shared a similar passion for preserving LA’s cultural history. Together, they combined their unique perspectives to craft a brand that celebrates heritage, loyalty, and resistance.

Design Aesthetic and Cultural Expression

Born x Raised is known for its bold graphics, raw messaging, and commitment to authenticity. The designs often incorporate old English fonts, vintage aesthetics, and motifs pulled directly from Los Angeles street culture, such as lowriders, neighborhood landmarks, and graffiti-inspired artwork. The clothes are not just fashion statements—they are cultural artifacts that reflect the lived realities of the people they represent.

Each collection is a visual narrative, blending Spanto and 2Tone’s street-level sensibility with high-quality production. The designs frequently reference historical and political themes, from land displacement to police brutality, all while embracing the codes of West Coast style. The result is apparel that feels deeply rooted in place, time, and community.

A signature aspect of Born x Raised’s work is its refusal to cater to mainstream tastes. Rather than chase trends, the brand leans into its origins, creating collections that resonate with those who understand and share the brand’s perspective. This integrity has earned Born x Raised a loyal following that spans skaters, artists, musicians, and cultural commentators.

Community First

At the core of Born x Raised is an unwavering commitment to community. The brand regularly engages in initiatives that uplift marginalized groups in Los Angeles. Whether it’s organizing charity drives, hosting community barbecues, or collaborating with local artists, Born x Raised stays grounded in its mission to serve the people who inspired its creation.

A powerful example of this ethos was the “No Us Without You” initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic, where Born x Raised helped support undocumented restaurant workers across Los Angeles who were ineligible for government aid. This initiative exemplified how the brand leverages its platform to enact real-world change, reinforcing its deep connection to the community.

Moreover, Born x Raised has formed meaningful collaborations with local schools, youth programs, and indigenous organizations, providing resources and mentorship to young creatives who might otherwise lack access to the fashion world. These efforts go beyond performative allyship—Spanto and 2Tone have always walked the walk, embedding social responsibility into the DNA of the brand.

Collaborations and Influence

Despite its hyper-local roots, Born x Raised has reached a global audience, in part due to its highly selective and impactful collaborations. The brand has worked with major players like Nike, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Lakers, and Converse—partnerships that have extended its message while staying true to its values.

These collaborations often merge local iconography with the brand’s signature style, resulting in capsule collections that honor the culture of LA while making statements that resonate on a global scale. For instance, the Nike SB Dunk Low collab in 2023 honored Spanto’s legacy and was designed with intricate details that told the story of his life and the community he fought for.

Through these high-profile partnerships, Born x Raised has not only elevated its visibility but has also introduced the nuances of LA street culture to audiences unfamiliar with its roots. What sets the brand apart is its ability to maintain creative control and cultural integrity even when collaborating with corporate giants.

Legacy of Spanto

In January 2023, co-founder Spanto passed away following a battle with cancer. His death marked a tremendous loss for the community, but his legacy lives on through every garment, collaboration, and initiative under the Born x Raised name. Spanto’s vision of using fashion as a platform for truth-telling, remembrance, and activism remains central to the brand’s mission.

Following his passing, the brand received an outpouring of support from fans, collaborators, and fellow designers around the world. Murals were painted in his honor, and tribute pieces were created to celebrate his life and contributions. For many, Spanto wasn't just a designer—he was a community leader, a cultural custodian, and a symbol of what it means to stay rooted in your truth.

2Tone continues to run the brand, carrying forward the mission he and Spanto built together. With each new drop, Born x Raised remains a tribute to Spanto’s life and an ongoing commitment to the people and places that raised him.

Cultural Impact and the Future

Born x Raised stands as a testament to what streetwear can be when it’s grounded in purpose. In an industry often driven by hype and profit, the brand offers something far more enduring: a genuine connection to place, a commitment to social justice, and an unfiltered voice for the voiceless. Its story is one of survival, remembrance, and resistance—a story that continues to evolve with each passing season.

Looking ahead, Born x Raised shows no signs of compromising its vision. As the brand expands its reach, it remains fiercely protective of its identity, ensuring that the values of authenticity, loyalty, and cultural preservation remain central. In a world where fashion often detaches itself from its origins, Born x Raised reminds us of the power of staying true to where you come from.