Draft:Born x Raised (brand)

= Born x Raised = Born x Raised is an American streetwear brand based in Los Angeles, California. The brand was founded by Chris "Spanto" Printup and Alex "2Tone" Erdmann, the brand integrates the very diverse cultural heritage of Los Angeles with contemporary fashion, emphasizing local identity, social commentary, and street culture. Born x Raised (pronounced "Born and Raised") represents a response to the gentrification of Los Angeles neighborhoods, serving as a platform to express the founders' connection to their city's ever changing landscape.

History
Born x Raised was established in 2013 by Chris "Spanto" Printup, a Venice native, and Alex "2Tone" Erdmann, a fellow Los Angeles creative. The brand's inception was motivated by the founders' desire to capture the essence of Los Angeles street culture and to voice the experiences of those who have been affected by gentrification in their neighborhoods. The name "Born x Raised" itself is a direct reference to the founders' deep-rooted ties to their respective cities, specifically Venice, and a testament to their commitment to preserving the cultural integrity of their community. Unfortunately, one of the founding members, Printup, passed away on June 28 2023 from injuries sustained in a car accident which took place in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Identity and Philosophy
At its core, Born x Raised is much more than just a clothing line; it's a cultural statement. The brand's identity is heavily influenced by Los Angeles' rich tapestry of cultures, including its skate, surf, music, and street art scenes. Using a distinctive aesthetic that includes bold graphics, typographies, and slogans, Born x Raised communicates themes of loyalty, respect, and resistance against gentrification and cultural erasure.

A notable aspect of Born x Raised's philosophy is its focus on authenticity and local production. The brand prides itself on producing its garments in Los Angeles, maintaining close ties to the community's artisans and manufacturing capabilities. This commitment not only ensures quality but also supports the local economy and workforce.

Products and Collaborations
Born x Raised offers a wide range of streetwear products, including t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and accessories. The designs often feature the brand's logo, distinctive graphics, and messages that resonate with their cultural and social commentary.

The brand has also engaged in several high-profile collaborations, working with artists, musicians, sports teams from across the world such as the Los Angeles Rams, the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Football Club and most recently, professional french football club, Paris Saint-Germain. The brand has also collaborated with other fashion brands to create unique, limited-edition collections. These collaborations further cement Born x Raised's influence in both the fashion industry and broader cultural conversations.

Impact and Reception
Born x Raised has received praise for its authentic representation of Los Angeles culture and its commitment to social issues. The brand's approach to fashion as a medium for storytelling and cultural preservation has resonated with a diverse audience, from local community members to international celebrities.

Moreover, Born x Raised's stance on gentrification and cultural identity has sparked discussions beyond the realm of fashion, contributing to broader conversations about urban development, community displacement, and cultural heritage.