A Cultural Collaboration Bridging Past & Present
Essential Journal explores the cultural collaboration between acclaimed grime photographer Simon Wheatley and the London-based streetwear brand Corteiz.
Words by Molly Bluett
In an era where fashion and street culture constantly collide, few collaborations capture the essence of both as seamlessly as the one between acclaimed grime photographer Simon Wheatley and the London-based streetwear brand Corteiz.
This partnership, launched in 2024, not only celebrates the art of fashion but also honours the deep cultural roots of the UK’s grime world, blending past and present in a powerful, style-forward narrative.
Simon Wheatley, best known for his gritty and evocative documentation of London’s grime scene, has long been a cultural icon. His photographic work, particularly his book Don’t Call Me Urban!, captures the raw energy and reality of inner-city life in the early 2000s, shining a light on a pivotal time in British music and youth culture. Corteiz, on the other hand, is a brand that has swiftly risen to prominence by embodying a rebellious, underground ethos that resonates with a new generation of fashion enthusiasts. Their collaboration feels like a natural synergy, one that bridges Wheatley’s legacy with Corteiz’s contemporary streetwear influence.
The capsule collection features Wheatley’s iconic imagery printed across Corteiz’s signature utilitarian pieces, including hoodies, t-shirts, and cargo pants. These items do more than just display striking visuals. They offer a wearable tribute to grime culture’s influence on both the streets and high fashion. Wheatley’s photographs, including notable images of grime legends like Crazy Titch, are reimagined on streetwear staples, giving a new, youthful audience access to a piece of British musical history.
Corteiz founder, Clint419, has consistently pushed the boundaries of streetwear with bold, culturally relevant collections and this collaboration continues that tradition. The brand, already known for its rare drops and sold-out collections, elevates its offerings with Wheatley’s storied imagery, providing a visual link between the brand’s current cultural commentary and the history that paved the way for today’s scene.
This partnership is more than a clothing line. It is a meeting of minds between two cultural icons. By bringing Wheatley’s photographs into the fashion world, Corteiz isn’t just celebrating the grime scene, but also making a statement about the enduring influence of UK street culture on global fashion. In a market where exclusivity and cultural capital reign supreme, the Simon Wheatley x Corteiz collaboration stands out as a must-have for anyone who appreciates the intersection of art, music and style.
