Born x Raised: A Cultural Icon of Los Angeles Streetwear
Born x Raised, a streetwear brand founded in 2013, has firmly established itself as a prominent cultural force within the world of fashion. Hailing from the vibrant and diverse city of Los Angeles, the brand has become a staple in the city's street culture, seamlessly blending local influences with high-quality craftsmanship. Born x Raised is more than just a clothing label—it's a representation of LA's unique blend of youth culture, working-class ethos, and rebellious spirit.
The Origins of Born x Raised
Born x Raised was co-founded by designers and childhood friends Spanto (Antonio “Spanto” Garcia) and 2tone (Chris “2tone” Julian), both of whom share a deep connection to the city of Los Angeles. Their upbringing in the city influenced their design philosophy, which combines elements of LA’s diverse neighborhoods, the gritty atmosphere of urban streets, and the undeniable pride the city’s residents have in their roots. This sense of identity and place is deeply embedded in the DNA of the brand, from the designs to the collaborations it participates in.
One of the key concepts behind Born x Raised is the idea of loyalty to one's roots and community. In a city as sprawling and multifaceted as Los Angeles, Born x Raised represents a collective identity of the city's youth, their experiences, and their heritage. The brand’s logo, which often incorporates imagery inspired by classic West Coast iconography like palm trees, lowrider cars, and skate culture, speaks to these deep cultural connections.
Cultural Influences
Los Angeles is a city with a complex and diverse cultural landscape. The city has long been a hub for youth culture, and Born x Raised embraces this with designs that reflect the working-class spirit and neighborhood pride that characterize many of LA’s local communities. The brand has been shaped by influences ranging from Chicano street art and graffiti to the surf and skate culture of Venice Beach, as well as the city’s celebrated hip-hop scene.
Born x Raised's ability to capture the essence of Los Angeles street life is what sets it apart from many other streetwear brands. The clothing is often laden with references to the city’s socio-political history, as well as its cultural symbols. The logo, often featuring a distinctive “LA” script, embodies this connection to the West Coast and speaks to the city’s identity.
Streetwear with a Message
What truly makes Born x Raised resonate with its audience is not just the clothes themselves, but the message they convey. Unlike many streetwear brands that focus solely on aesthetics or trends, Born x Raised is rooted in the idea of "representing" one’s origins and community. Whether through the graphic-heavy T-shirts, hoodies, or the subtle details in its cut-and-sew garments, the brand’s pieces speak to local pride and cultural unity.
Each collection often carries a theme, with messages that reflect the realities of growing up in the city. These themes range from cultural pride to social commentary, making the brand much more than just a clothing line. For example, Born x Raised’s use of vintage, worn-in looks often highlights a feeling of nostalgia and speaks to the history of Los Angeles.
Collaborations and Impact on Streetwear
Born x Raised quickly attracted attention from other major streetwear and luxury brands, leading to collaborations that cemented its place in the fashion industry. The brand’s collaborations with names like Nike, Converse, and Vans brought it into the mainstream spotlight, showcasing how a local brand can successfully blend street culture with global fashion.
The collaboration with Nike, in particular, was a defining moment for Born x Raised. Their collaboration on a sneaker, the Air Force 1 “LA,” featured a design that incorporated the city’s distinctive street style with subtle references to LA’s gang culture, a nod to the city’s complex history. This partnership with Nike helped Born x Raised reach a broader audience and solidified its place in the streetwear hierarchy.
Born x Raised also leans into the ethos of exclusivity that drives much of the streetwear market. Their limited releases and seasonal drops have created an aura of scarcity, which only adds to the desirability of their pieces. Fans and collectors alike seek out Born x Raised items not just for their designs, but for the cultural cachet they carry.
The Aesthetic and the Message
The aesthetic of Born x Raised is rooted in a mix of nostalgia and rebellious youth culture. Their designs often feature bold, graphic-heavy prints, local symbols, and statements that tie back to Los Angeles' working-class and immigrant communities. Many of the brand’s designs reference the Chicano culture that has been a dominant force in shaping LA’s identity, especially in the neighborhood of East LA. From tattoo-inspired artwork to throwback references to old-school California street style, Born x Raised’s designs are meant to make a statement, telling stories of resilience, culture, and pride.
Furthermore, Born x Raised’s aesthetic frequently integrates political and social commentary. One example is its use of vintage patches and imagery to evoke a sense of resistance. The brand has never shied away from pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms, creating designs that resonate with a generation that is more politically aware and socially conscious than ever before.
The Community Focus
Born x Raised stands out not just because of its design or cultural influences, but because of its commitment to community. The brand has made it a priority to give back to its roots, regularly engaging with the neighborhoods and people who inspired it. Born x Raised has hosted events, launched initiatives, and been involved in local causes that support the very community it represents.
By highlighting these efforts, Born x Raised showcases its genuine commitment to the people who helped shape it. For example, the brand has partnered with various local organizations to support causes ranging from homelessness to social justice. These efforts reflect the brand's desire to not only represent LA but also contribute to improving it.
A Symbol of LA's Identity
At its core, Born x Raised is more than a streetwear brand—it's a cultural movement. It stands as a symbol of LA's multifaceted identity, embracing its diverse communities and stories. In doing so, the brand transcends fashion and becomes a reflection of the culture it represents. By continuing to honor its roots and make meaningful contributions to its community, Born x Raised ensures its place as not just a successful streetwear label, but as an important part of the larger narrative of Los Angeles' cultural evolution.
Looking to the Future
Born x raised dunk continues to grow, its future remains bright. The brand's authenticity, its connection to the city of Los Angeles, and its ability to resonate with both local and global audiences ensure that it will continue to evolve and influence streetwear for years to come. Whether it’s expanding into new collaborations, exploring new themes, or further cementing its cultural presence, Born x Raised shows no signs of slowing down.
Through its evolution, the brand will undoubtedly continue to embrace its roots while innovating for the future. Born x Raised is not just about clothing; it’s a lifestyle, a cultural marker, and a powerful reflection of what it means to be born and raised in one of the most iconic cities in the world.
