Founded in 2013 by Spanto (Chris Printup) and 2Tone, Born x bornxraisedclothing.com Raised was created as a love letter to Los Angeles. The brand’s ethos stems from the personal experiences of its founders, reflecting the city’s struggles, triumphs, and deeply rooted identity. The brand often uses bold typography and nostalgic imagery to convey its themes, drawing inspiration from the graffiti, tattoo culture, and community pride that define LA’s streets.
What sets Born x Raised apart is its commitment to authenticity. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, the brand champions the idea of staying true to one’s roots. Its name, “Born x Raised,” is a nod to growing up in Los Angeles and the values and hardships associated with that experience. The label quickly resonated with those who identified with the stories it told, making it a staple in the wardrobes of streetwear enthusiasts, celebrities, and locals alike.
The Partnership with the Los Angeles Kings
In 2019, Born x Raised teamed up with the Los Angeles Kings, the city’s beloved NHL team, to create a capsule collection that celebrated their shared connection to LA. This collaboration was more than just a crossover of fashion and sports—it was a tribute to the city’s culture and its people.
The Los Angeles Kings, founded in 1967, have a legacy as one of the NHL’s most recognized franchises. The team’s iconic black, silver, and white colors have become synonymous with a tough, gritty aesthetic, mirroring the ethos of Los Angeles itself. By collaborating with the Kings, Born x Raised bridged the gap between streetwear and professional sports, creating a collection that felt both nostalgic and cutting-edge.
The Born x Raised Kings Hat became a standout piece from this collaboration. Featuring the Kings’ logo combined with Born x Raised’s signature lettering, the hat is a visual representation of the brand’s ability to blend heritage with modern streetwear aesthetics.
Design and Aesthetic of the Kings Hat
The Born x Raised Kings Hat is a masterclass in minimalist design with bold impact. Crafted with precision, the hat stays true to the Kings’ iconic black-and-silver color palette while incorporating Born x Raised’s rebellious flair. The hat often features:
- Los Angeles Kings Logo: The classic Kings logo is prominently displayed, symbolizing the team’s legacy and connection to the city.
- Born x Raised Typography: The brand’s distinctive Old English-style font is either embroidered or subtly embossed, adding a streetwear edge to the hat.
- High-Quality Materials: Made with premium fabrics, the Kings Hat ensures durability and comfort, whether worn on the streets or at a hockey game.
- Attention to Detail: From its perfectly structured brim to its adjustable snapback closure, every element of the hat reflects thoughtful craftsmanship.
This fusion of sports and streetwear elements makes the hat versatile—it can be styled with everything from casual outfits to more fashion-forward ensembles.
The Cultural Impact of the Born x Raised Kings Hat
The Born x Raised Kings Hat is more than just a piece of merchandise; it’s a symbol of identity and pride. For fans of the Kings, it represents loyalty to their team, while for streetwear enthusiasts, it’s a coveted item that reflects LA’s rich cultural landscape.
A New Avenue for Collaboration
The partnership between Born x Raised and the Los Angeles Kings exemplifies how sports teams can successfully collaborate with streetwear brands. By tapping into the streetwear community, the Kings gained a fresh, youthful audience, while Born x Raised expanded its reach to sports fans. This mutually beneficial relationship has since inspired other brands and teams to explore similar collaborations.
Celebrity Endorsement and Mainstream Appeal
The hat’s popularity skyrocketed when it was spotted on celebrities and influencers, from musicians like Kendrick Lamar to athletes and social media personalities. Its prominence in pop culture further cemented its status as a must-have item in the streetwear world.
Resale Market Boom
As with most limited-edition collaborations, the Born x Raised Kings Hat became a hot commodity in the resale market. Fans and collectors alike scrambled to get their hands on the hat, with prices often exceeding the original retail value. This phenomenon highlights the growing demand for exclusive, collaborative pieces in today’s fashion landscape.
Styling the Kings Hat
The Born x Raised Kings Hat is versatile enough to complement various styles. Here are some ideas for incorporating it into your wardrobe:
- Casual Streetwear: Pair the hat with an oversized hoodie, distressed jeans, and classic sneakers for a laid-back, everyday look.
- Athletic Vibes: Wear it with a Los Angeles Kings jersey and joggers to show support for the team while staying fashion-forward.
- Monochrome Outfit: Stick to a black-and-white color palette to emphasize the hat’s sleek design. A black bomber jacket and white sneakers are great additions.
- High-Fashion Edge: Combine the hat with tailored trousers, a graphic tee, and a leather jacket for a bold, elevated ensemble.
What Makes the Born x Raised Kings Hat Special?
The enduring appeal of the Born x Raised Kings Hat lies in its ability to connect with a wide audience. Its design captures the essence of LA’s street culture while celebrating the city’s sports heritage. For Angelenos, it’s a way to showcase pride in their city; for others, it’s an entry point into the dynamic world of streetwear.
Moreover, the hat reflects Born x Raised’s commitment to storytelling through fashion. By collaborating with the Los Angeles Kings, the brand demonstrates how two seemingly different worlds—sports and streetwear—can come together to create something timeless.
Conclusion
The Born x Raised Kings Hat is more than a fashion accessory—it’s a symbol of LA’s vibrant culture, a bridge between sports and streetwear, and a testament to the power of collaboration. Born x Raised has proven that authenticity and a deep respect for one’s roots can resonate with audiences worldwide.
For those lucky enough to own a Kings Hat, it’s not just a piece of clothing; it’s a piece of history. Whether you’re a fan of the Los Angeles Kings, a streetwear enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates well-crafted designs, the Born x Raised Kings Hat is a worthy addition to your collection. It’s a reminder of what can be achieved when fashion tells a story—one that’s rooted in identity, culture, and community.
