Born x Raised: The Intersection of Culture and Streetwear
Born x Raised is a Los Angeles-based streetwear brand founded in 2011 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and Alex “2Tone” Erdmann. Known for its authentic storytelling and deep connection to L.A. culture, Born x Raised quickly gained a loyal following among those passionate about the unique blend of street, skate, and urban lifestyle. Through its designs, the brand reflects a gritty, unapologetic side of Los Angeles often overlooked by mainstream media.
A Deep Connection to L.A. Culture
The brand’s roots run deep in the neighborhoods of Los Angeles. Spanto, a Native American and Italian L.A. native, grew up surrounded by gang culture, street art, and the multi-ethnic mix of people that make up the city’s character. Born x Raised is heavily influenced by these personal experiences and the evolving identity of L.A. itself. The brand often showcases unique graphics and phrases that celebrate pride in local culture, featuring historic L.A. icons and symbols that resonate with locals and those who share an affinity for street culture.
Aesthetic and Design
Born x Raised incorporates bold typography, dark color schemes, and graphics that evoke nostalgia for a rawer era of L.A. street life. The brand’s aesthetic captures the essence of struggle, identity, and pride in the city. Its frequent use of serif fonts, vintage graphics, and subversive messages give Born x Raised an edge, setting it apart from other streetwear brands. The designs often pay homage to L.A.’s past, such as old school tattoos, graffiti, and sports-inspired graphics.
Collaborations and Cultural Influence
Born x Raised has collaborated with influential brands like Nike and Converse, and it also has connections with sports teams, including the Los Angeles Rams and Dodgers. These collaborations bring together diverse audiences, from sports fans to fashion enthusiasts, uniting people who share a love for L.A. culture. In addition, the brand frequently collaborates with prominent artists, photographers, and community figures to produce limited edition pieces that feel both authentic and unique.
The brand is more than just clothing; it’s a cultural movement. It reflects the pride, resilience, and challenges of growing up in neighborhoods that often go unseen. By bringing this culture to the forefront, Born x Raised hoodie has earned a place in the hearts of those who want their clothing to stand for something bigger.
October’s Very Own (OVO): From Hip-Hop Roots to Global Streetwear
October’s Very Own (OVO) was co-founded by Canadian rapper Drake, his manager Oliver El-Khatib, and producer Noah “40” Shebib. The brand started as a small extension of Drake’s music career, but it quickly evolved into an internationally recognized streetwear label. With its distinct owl logo, OVO clothing has created a unique style that resonates with both hip-hop fans and fashion enthusiasts.
Brand Origin and Vision
The OVO brand is rooted in Drake’s connection to Toronto, Canada, and it reflects his deep loyalty to his hometown. Much like how Born x Raised represents Los Angeles, OVO represents Toronto’s multicultural landscape. OVO initially launched as a way for Drake to connect with fans through exclusive tour merchandise, but its success soon led to the development of a full-fledged lifestyle brand that includes everything from casual streetwear to luxury outerwear.
The Iconic OVO Aesthetic
OVO’s designs feature a sleek, minimalist look, often incorporating neutral color palettes such as black, gold, and white, giving the clothing a luxurious feel. The brand’s iconic owl logo, which symbolizes wisdom and mystery, has become synonymous with OVO and is featured prominently across its collections. The designs often have a premium feel, blending streetwear with high fashion elements, which has helped the brand attract a diverse customer base.
Collaborations and Influence in Streetwear
OVO has collaborated with some of the biggest names in fashion, including Nike, Jordan Brand, and Canada Goose. These collaborations helped elevate OVO from a niche label to an internationally recognized brand, solidifying its place in the streetwear industry. Each collaboration combines OVO’s understated luxury with the collaborator’s design sensibilities, creating exclusive pieces that are highly sought after.
In addition to fashion, OVO hoodie has expanded into other areas, such as music festivals (like OVO Fest), record labels, and pop-up shops. The brand has become a representation of Toronto’s cultural influence and Drake’s impact on global hip-hop culture. For fans of the brand, wearing OVO is a way to feel connected to the artistry, ambition, and exclusivity that Drake embodies.
Born x Raised vs. OVO: A Cultural Comparison
Both Born x Raised and OVO have transcended clothing to become symbols of their respective cities and cultures. Born x Raised brings the raw, unfiltered spirit of Los Angeles, while OVO represents Toronto’s chic and sophisticated side. While each brand has its own style and focus, both are powerful examples of how streetwear can tell a story and build a community.
Whether it’s the gritty graphics of Born x Raised or the luxurious minimalism of OVO, both brands offer more than just apparel; they provide a sense of belonging, pride, and a connection to cultural roots that appeal to fashion-forward individuals around the world.