The Los Angeles fashion scene is in mourning following the untimely death of Chris Printup, the influential founder of the streetwear brand Born x Raised. Printup, aged 42, tragically passed away from injuries sustained in a car accident last Sunday. Known for his deep ties to the city and its culture, Printup’s legacy is marked by his commitment to reflecting and protecting the heritage of his beloved hometown, Venice, California.
Founded a decade ago with partner Alex “2Tone” Erdmann, Born x Raised quickly became a fixture in Los Angeles’s fashion landscape. The brand is celebrated for its authentic urban apparel and has garnered a following that includes local residents and international celebrities alike. Over the years, Born x Raised distinguished itself not only through its unique designs but also through significant collaborations with Los Angeles’s top sports franchises—the Lakers, Dodgers, and Rams.
The news of Printup’s passing was met with an outpouring of tributes from across the globe. Among those mourning his loss is Myles O’Neal, son of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal and a model and fashion enthusiast himself. O’Neal took to social media to express his sorrow, posting on Instagram, “A Real WestCoast Legend RIP brother.” This sentiment resonated with many who knew Printup or admired his work, highlighting his impact on both the fashion industry and the broader cultural community.
Printup’s journey was one of both creativity and courage. Diagnosed with terminal cancer just a month after launching Born x Raised, he faced his illness with remarkable resilience. By 2018, he had triumphantly announced that he was cancer-free, sharing his story of recovery and gratitude. His reflections on life and healing continued to inspire many, as evidenced by the flood of comments on his social media from fans and friends alike, celebrating his spirit and contributions.
The legacy of Chris Printup and Born x Raised is notably marked by the City of Champs Collection, launched in 2020 and 2021. This special line celebrated major achievements of LA’s sports teams, commemorating the Lakers’ 17th NBA championship and the Dodgers’ first World Series win in 32 years. The collection featured co-branded merchandise such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, and caps, and was a testament to Printup’s love for Los Angeles and its sports heroes. In his words, captured in an interview with the LA Times, “The championships are something we will celebrate for a long time, and Born X Raised is the first official partner to bring both teams together. We are excited to be doing something that has never been done, again.”
As the community continues to grapple with this loss, the future of Born x Raised remains a poignant question. The hope is that the brand will continue to thrive as a tribute to Printup’s vision and dedication. The streets of Venice and beyond will undoubtedly feel the absence of a man who was not just a fashion icon but a true champion of the city’s soul.
Printup’s passing has left a void in the heart of the Los Angeles fashion and sports community. As the world reflects on his life and legacy, his story remains a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on their community and industry.
