Born x Raised is a streetwear brand that has bornxraisedclothing.com firmly rooted itself in the vibrant streets of Los Angeles. This unique label has come to symbolize the lifestyle, culture, and attitude of the city, blending elements of classic Californian cool with cutting-edge fashion. From its inception, Born x Raised has become a cultural touchstone for those who value authenticity, community, and creativity. In this article, we will explore the history, influence, and signature style of Born x Raised, highlighting why it stands out in the crowded streetwear landscape.
The Origins of Born x Raised
Born x Raised was founded in 2013 by designer and entrepreneur Spanto, alongside his childhood friends, including co-founder and graphic designer Chris. The idea behind the brand was born out of a shared love for their hometown of Los Angeles, specifically the gritty, artistic, and diverse elements of the city's culture. For Spanto and his team, the idea was simple: create a clothing line that represents Los Angeles in a way that is true to their roots, without the typical commercialization of the city often seen in mainstream fashion.
The name "Born x Raised" itself reflects this sentiment—emphasizing a connection to the city of LA, both as a birthplace and as a formative influence. The brand’s ethos is rooted in honoring the West Coast lifestyle, the working-class hustle, and the DIY spirit that defines the streets of LA. This authenticity, paired with a rebellious attitude, helped Born x Raised carve out a niche within the broader streetwear scene.
The Aesthetic: A Blend of Nostalgia and Modernity
One of the defining features of Born x Raised is its distinct aesthetic. The brand combines nostalgic elements of '90s street culture with contemporary design, creating a style that resonates with both older generations and younger streetwear enthusiasts. This blend of retro influences and modern sensibilities gives Born x Raised its unique edge. From graphic T-shirts to oversized hoodies and caps, the brand's offerings are heavily inspired by LA’s surf, skate, and hip-hop cultures, with a focus on high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
The use of bold graphics, text, and symbols is a key design element for Born x Raised. Many of the brand’s pieces feature intricate, hand-drawn illustrations that pay homage to the city’s graffiti culture and the rebellious spirit of street art. The designs often incorporate iconic Los Angeles landmarks, such as palm trees, beaches, and the unmistakable "LA" lettering, which evoke a sense of pride in the city's heritage.
Color palettes used by Born x Raised are typically warm and earthy, drawing inspiration from the natural landscapes of California. Shades of sand, olive green, and burnt orange reflect the aesthetic of the West Coast, while pops of brighter colors like neon greens and pinks add a modern touch. The brand’s attention to detail in every design element has helped solidify its reputation as a brand that values craftsmanship and style.
Collaborations and Cultural Impact
Born x Raised’s influence in the streetwear world extends far beyond its own collections. The brand has been involved in numerous high-profile collaborations with some of the biggest names in fashion and pop culture, further cementing its place in the industry. One of the most notable collaborations was with Nike, which saw Born x Raised put its signature touch on a range of sneakers. These collaborations combine the brand's laid-back LA style with Nike’s sportswear heritage, creating a unique fusion of street and performance wear.
Other high-profile collaborations include partnerships with Vans, New Era, and even tattoo artist Mister Cartoon. Each of these collaborations has contributed to Born x Raised’s growing presence in the global fashion scene. By aligning itself with these respected brands and figures, Born x Raised has elevated its status beyond a local streetwear brand to a global cultural phenomenon.
The Community and Lifestyle
At the core of Born x Raised is its commitment to community. The brand’s founders have always emphasized that Born x Raised is more than just a clothing line; it’s a lifestyle that reflects the attitudes, experiences, and values of Los Angeles. Born x Raised often uses its platform to give back to the community, supporting local charities and initiatives that align with its values.
The brand’s success is also attributed to its focus on fostering a sense of belonging among its fans. Born x Raised actively engages with its audience, sharing stories of real people, local events, and cultural moments that define Los Angeles. This community-driven approach has helped Born x Raised create a loyal and passionate following, both within the city and beyond.
The brand's connection to the LA street scene is further reflected in its storefronts and pop-up shops, which are designed to feel like a local hangout spot rather than a traditional retail store. These spaces not only showcase the latest collections but also act as gathering points for like-minded individuals who share a love for the LA lifestyle. By creating these spaces, Born x Raised fosters a sense of connection and unity among its fans.
Ethical Practices and Sustainability
In addition to its cultural impact, Born x Raised has also made strides in addressing the sustainability and ethical practices within the fashion industry. The brand is increasingly mindful of the environmental footprint of its products and is working towards more sustainable production methods. This includes using eco-friendly fabrics and adopting more responsible manufacturing processes.
Born x Raised’s commitment to sustainability also extends to the ethical treatment of its workers. The brand is dedicated to supporting fair labor practices and ensuring that the people behind its designs are treated with respect and compensated fairly for their work. As the fashion industry becomes more aware of its environmental and social impacts, brands like Born x Raised are paving the way for a more conscious approach to fashion.
The Future of Born x Raised
Looking ahead, Born x Raised shows no signs of slowing down. The brand has consistently stayed true to its roots, while also evolving to meet the demands of a changing fashion landscape. As streetwear continues to grow in popularity and influence, Born x Raised remains at the forefront of this movement, staying connected to its community and continuing to innovate in terms of design and collaborations.
The brand’s ability to stay relevant while maintaining an authentic connection to Los Angeles is what has allowed it to endure in the competitive world of streetwear. Whether it’s through its bold graphics, its focus on community, or its collaborations with other iconic brands, Born x Raised is a testament to the power of street culture and the impact it has on global fashion.
Conclusion
Born x Raised is more than just a clothing brand; it is a cultural phenomenon that has captured the essence of Los Angeles and the spirit of streetwear. With its distinctive aesthetic, strong community focus, and commitment to quality and authenticity, Born x Raised has established itself as a leader in the streetwear industry. As the brand continues to evolve and grow, it will undoubtedly remain a major influence in the fashion world for years to come, continuing to represent the heart and soul of LA street culture.