Born X Raised is a unique streetwear brand that has made a significant impact on both the fashion industry and urban culture. Founded in 2013, Born X Raised draws its inspiration from the city of Los Angeles, blending elements of its vibrant street culture with high-quality materials and thought-provoking designs. The brand's ethos revolves around pride in one’s origins, community, and identity, all of which are conveyed through its clothing and marketing. Born X Raised has quickly grown from a small, local operation into an internationally recognized label, known for its bold graphics, distinctive aesthetic, and deep ties to the city of Los Angeles.
Origins and Philosophy
Born X Raised was created by a group of friends who were passionate about fashion and the streets they grew up in. The brand was founded by the duo of Spanto and 2tone, who sought to express their shared experience of growing up in Los Angeles. The name "Born X Raised" itself is a reflection of the founders' belief that their upbringing, shaped by the influences of the city, played a crucial role in their identity and their approach to life. The brand has always embraced a strong sense of community, emphasizing loyalty, heritage, and a genuine connection to their roots. For the founders, Born X Raised is more than just a clothing line; it’s a movement that celebrates their journey and the diverse culture of Los Angeles.
The brand’s philosophy is deeply embedded in the idea that identity is shaped by the environment one is raised in. The founders' own experience growing up in the rough neighborhoods of LA provided them with a unique perspective on the intersection of fashion, identity, and culture. Their designs often feature graphic elements that evoke a sense of nostalgia for Los Angeles’ past while also speaking to its contemporary urban landscape. From the iconic "Born Raised" logo to images of local landmarks, the visual language of Born X Raised reflects the fusion of past and present, offering a cultural commentary on the city's evolution.
The Aesthetic and Design
One of the standout features of Born X Raised is its distinctive visual aesthetic, which blends elements of street art, vintage Americana, and skate culture. The brand’s designs often feature bold graphics, heavy use of typography, and imagery that resonates with the urban experience. This fusion of visual styles can be seen in collections that incorporate a mix of hand-drawn illustrations, old-school tattoo motifs, and graffiti-inspired artwork.
The color palette of Born X Raised garments often evokes a sense of nostalgia, with earthy tones and muted hues that recall the natural landscapes of California, along with the grittiness of city life. The brand’s designs are rarely subtle. Instead, they tend to make a statement, whether it’s through a large logo, an emblem, or an iconic image. The clothing is not only meant to be worn but also to convey a message about the wearer’s connection to the brand and its roots in LA culture.
Cultural Influence and Impact
Born X Raised has carved a niche for itself by staying true to its roots while also appealing to a global audience. Its streetwear collections draw heavily from the cultural history of Los Angeles, and its designs often feature themes of rebellion, unity, and the gritty beauty of the streets. The brand has managed to capture the essence of LA's rich, diverse culture while creating clothing that resonates with young people worldwide.
The influence of street culture, hip-hop, skateboarding, and even lowrider culture is woven throughout the brand’s identity. Born X Raised has tapped into a subculture that values authenticity, self-expression, and community, and the brand has become a symbol of those values. It speaks to people who feel connected to the streets, who understand the highs and lows of urban life, and who wear their identities on their sleeves—sometimes literally.
The brand’s cultural influence extends beyond just its designs; it has also worked with a number of high-profile collaborators, further cementing its place in the fashion world. Born X Raised has partnered with major brands such as Converse, Nike, and Vans, creating limited-edition pieces that merge its street-inspired aesthetic with the distinct style of these iconic brands. These collaborations have helped the brand expand its reach while maintaining its authenticity and staying true to its core principles.
The Clothing and Collaborations
At its core, Born X Raised is a streetwear brand that produces a wide range of clothing, including graphic tees, hoodies, jackets, pants, and accessories. The brand's garments are known for their high-quality construction and attention to detail. While Born X Raised is best known for its graphic-heavy tees and sweatshirts, the brand has expanded into other categories, including outerwear and footwear.
The brand’s apparel often features bold prints, patches, and slogans that speak to the values of the brand, such as loyalty, family, and the power of community. Many pieces in the collection also pay homage to LA’s rich cultural history, featuring images and references that evoke the city’s iconic landmarks and symbols.
Born X Raised has also gained attention for its successful collaborations with other popular brands and artists. These collaborations have allowed the brand to showcase its creative versatility while also reaching new audiences. For example, their partnership with Nike saw the creation of a limited-edition sneaker that combined Born X Raised’s signature bold graphics with Nike’s renowned athletic style. Similarly, the collaboration with Vans brought together the brand’s street sensibility with the skate culture legacy of Vans, resulting in a collection that was both authentic and highly sought after.
Community and Authenticity
One of the central tenets of Born X Raised is its commitment to authenticity. The founders have consistently emphasized that the brand is not just about fashion—it’s about community and staying true to one’s origins. Born X Raised has built a loyal following among people who identify with the brand’s ethos, and the brand’s success can be attributed to its ability to connect with people on a deeper level.
In addition to its clothing, Born X Raised has also been involved in various community projects and initiatives that support underprivileged neighborhoods in Los Angeles. By staying connected to the city that inspired its creation, the brand has continued to foster a sense of belonging among its fans. This commitment to community is also reflected in the brand’s marketing and social media presence, where the focus is not just on selling clothing but on fostering conversations about identity, culture, and urban life.
Conclusion
Born X Raised is much more than just a streetwear brand—it is a cultural movement that celebrates the power of community, identity, and the streets. With its distinctive aesthetic, bold designs, and deep connection to the city of Los Angeles, Born X Raised has become a symbol of authenticity and self-expression. The brand has proven that streetwear can be both a fashion statement and a way of telling a story, offering a unique perspective on the urban experience. As it continues to evolve, Born X Raised will undoubtedly remain a key player in the streetwear scene, shaping the way we think about fashion and its intersection with culture.