Corteiz is redefining streetwear culture
London’s streetwear scene has long been a hub of rebellious energy, but few brands capture that spirit quite like Corteiz. Founded in 2017 by British-Nigerian entrepreneur Clint Ogbenna, known as Clint 419, Corteiz (CRTZ) has quickly risen to prominence with its defiant ethos, unique guerilla marketing tactics, and an emblematic logo that features the infamous Alcatraz prison. From Drake to Central C, Corteiz is revered amongst artists and influencers around the world. Notably Skepta has mentioned C (Clint, the founder of Corteiz) many times in his songs.
This isn’t just a clothing brand—it’s a movement that challenges convention and “Rules The World.”
The Origins of Rebellion
Corteiz burst onto the scene with a limited collection of screen-printed t-shirts and crewnecks emblazoned with the Alcatraz logo—a fitting symbol for a brand that thrives on rebellion and freedom.
Corteiz on X
The logo is more than a design; it represents Corteiz’s message of breaking free from societal norms and standing against the mainstream. From those early days, Corteiz has expanded its product line to include tracksuits, shoes, and bags, all while maintaining an air of exclusivity through a private Instagram account and a password-protected website.
The Power of Guerilla Marketing
Corteiz has become synonymous with unconventional, hype-generating marketing strategies that keep the brand at the forefront of streetwear culture.
One of their most iconic stunts took place in Soho in 2021, where customers could exchange their metro tickets for a limited edition Corteiz t-shirt. It was a bold move that perfectly encapsulated the brand’s ethos—disruptive, inclusive, and unmistakably cool.
In 2022, Corteiz upped the ante with ‘Da Great Bolo Exchange,’ inviting customers to swap their high-end jackets from brands like The North Face, Moncler, and Supreme for the brand’s new Bolo jacket.
This clever exchange not only stirred up buzz but also served a philanthropic purpose, as the collected jackets were donated to the homeless. Corteiz continued to flex its marketing prowess with the ‘99p Market Stall’ pop-up, where over 2,000 fans flocked to purchase the brand’s latest cargos for just 99 pence, provided they brought the exact change.
A Brand That Gives Back
Corteiz’s disruptive tactics aren’t just about making a statement—they’re also about giving back. In 2024, the brand took its exchange concept to New York with ‘DA GREAT DENIM EXCHANGE.’ This time, Clint 419 invited customers to swap their jeans from iconic brands like Levi’s, True Religion, and Tommy Hilfiger for a limited edition pair of Corteiz denim.
With only 250 pieces available, the event not only stirred up excitement but also underscored Corteiz’s dedication to offering something truly unique and community-focused.
From Courtroom to Collaboration
Not all press was smooth sailing for Corteiz. In 2021, Nike sued the brand over the similarity between Corteiz’s name and Nike’s iconic Cortez sneaker.
The dispute ended with a £1,850 GBP settlement. But the story didn’t end there. In a surprising twist, the two brands joined forces in 2023 to release the Nike Air Max 95 in three exclusive colorways: Gutta Green, Pink Beam, and Aegean Storm, available in London, New York, and Paris. This collaboration was followed by another high-profile partnership with Supreme, cementing Corteiz’s position as a key player in the streetwear world.
The Future of Corteiz
Corteiz’s rise from a scrappy, rebellious startup to a globally recognized brand is nothing short of meteoric. Nominated for the 2023 Fashion Awards in the New Establishment – Menswear category, Corteiz shows no signs of slowing down.
Whether through bold marketing, unique product launches, or unexpected collaborations, Corteiz continues to defy expectations and rewrite the rules of streetwear.
With a tagline that boldly states “Rules The World,” Corteiz is not just a brand—it’s a testament to the power of authenticity, community, and the relentless pursuit of breaking free from the ordinary. As it continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Corteiz is here to rule.
