Palace’s latest winter drop is about to hit the streets, and it’s already made a scene with some controversy. The UK-based streetwear giant recently revealed a new collection that pays homage to Brazilian football legends, complete with a tracksuit that many fans are already dubbing an instant classic. But not everyone is pleased, as fashion mogul and Corteiz founder Clint419 has taken to social media to criticise the designs, which he claims are too reminiscent of past inspirations.
Back in 2016, Clint praised a brand Place, as well as designer Lev Tang, for what he described as “pioneering tracksuit designs”. Now, with Palace’s release of the R9-inspired tracksuit, Clint is once again making his voice heard but for a very different reason.
Palace’s Brazilian Tribute
Palace’s collection draws heavily on vintage Seleção styles from the 1990s and early 2000s, evoking memories of Brazil’s dominance on the football field. At the centre of the collection is the R9-inspired tracksuit, which comes in black and white, with Ronaldo’s iconic No.9 emblazoned below the Palace logo on both the jacket and the bottoms. To further highlight the Brazilian influence, Palace has reimagined the country’s crest with five stars, topped off with a yellow ‘PALACAO’ stitched beneath it – a cheeky nod to the team’s legacy.
But Palace didn’t stop there. They’re also releasing a bold blue sweatshirt adorned with Ronaldinho’s legendary No.11 on the chest, further cementing the brand’s tribute to Brazilian football royalty.
The collection is a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern streetwear, crafted for fans who appreciate both the beautiful game and standout fashion.
Clint419’s Take on the Collection
Clint’s critique raises questions about originality in streetwear, a debate that’s been ongoing for years as major brands continue to draw from various subcultures and icons. Clint has been vocal in the past about the importance of innovation, making it clear that he holds brands to high standards when it comes to creativity and respect for originality.
He’s known to have deep roots in streetwear culture, particularly with his own brand Corteiz, which has earned a reputation for setting trends. His call-out of Palace underscores a concern that’s often expressed by designers and fans alike: where does homage end and imitation begin?
Palace’s Track Record
Palace and Corteiz are no stranger to taking inspiration from classic sportswear and street culture. Over the years, they’ve built a loyal following by blending skate culture with football and hip-hop aesthetics, often putting their own unique twist on iconic looks. With this new Brazil-inspired collection, Palace seems to be keeping with its tradition of remixing nostalgic elements to create something fresh and relevant.
The Impact of This Debate on Streetwear Culture
This latest exchange highlights an ongoing discussion within our community about the balance between inspiration and replication. As major brands continue to mine subcultures and history for new collections, the need for respect and authenticity in these references becomes increasingly significant.
For fans and collectors, the clash between Clint and Palace is more than just fashion drama. It highlights a power dynamic that subverts the very essence of streetwear. While Corteiz started as a grassroots brand, it has now become part of the larger corporate structure that Clint often critiques. This evolution sparks discussions that ripple across the industry, challenging the balance between authenticity and commercial success in streetwear culture.
Whether you’re siding with Clint’s push for originality or with Palace’s homage to football greatness, one thing is clear: streetwear remains a space where past meets present, and where creative tensions often drive the scene forward.
