The Nike Cortez is one of Nike’s most iconic silhouettes, deeply embedded in the visual language of West Coast sneaker culture. Originally introduced in 1966, the shoe quickly moved beyond its performance origins to become a cultural marker associated with music, street style, and regional identity.

This editorial book traces the Cortez’s evolution from its debut through its continued relevance in contemporary fashion and streetwear. Structured as a visual timeline, the publication pairs archival research with original illustrations that I created to interpret key moments in the shoe’s history. These illustrations work alongside clean typographic systems and deliberate pacing to create a cohesive editorial narrative.

The project was inspired by the idea of preserving a deeply influential sneaker and its surrounding style culture in a tangible, physical format. Rather than existing only as digital reference, the book positions the Nike Cortez as a lasting cultural artifact. Through thoughtful design and image-making, the publication invites readers to engage more closely with the silhouette’s legacy and its ongoing impact on fashion and streetwear.