Author: Alina Ali

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Alina Ali is a lifestyle and fashion writer based in Dubai, covering everything from rare sneaker drops and designer collabs to luxury lifestyle and UAE culture. With a background in high-end features and a sharp eye for what's next in the MENA region, she writes for an audience that lives at the intersection of streetwear and couture. Her work is indexed on Muckrack. Find her on Substack and Mastodon.

In the ever-evolving world of sneaker culture, collaborations are a currency of hype. Yet, few saw this one coming: Nike has teamed up with Tekken, the legendary fighting game franchise, to reimagine one of its most iconic silhouettes. The result is the Tekken 8 x Nike Air Foamposite One, a sneaker inspired by one of gaming’s most recognisable anti-heroes—Kazuya Mishima. This isn’t just a marketing gimmick. It’s a collision of two worlds that have influenced culture in very different ways: Nike, the global sportswear giant, and Tekken, a video game franchise that has shaped competitive gaming for almost three decades.…

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In March 2022, the average Rolex sold on the secondary market for $17,206. Today that figure sits at roughly $13,400. These numbers capture significant changes within the Luxury Watch Market. The distance between those two numbers is the story of the most dramatic boom-and-correction cycle in luxury watch history — and understanding it properly is the difference between buying intelligently and buying on mythology. The original excitement was real. Between July 2010 and March 2022, secondary market Rolex prices rose more than 550%, from an average of around $2,050 to a peak of $17,206, according to 15 years of completed…

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The Nike SB PS8, a new addition to the Nike Skateboarding line, has surfaced in a sleek ‘Black/Clear’ colourway. This latest release combines stylish design elements with functional features, making it a standout choice for skateboarders and sneaker enthusiasts alike. Design and Aesthetics The Nike SB PS8 in ‘Black/Clear’ boasts a clean and modern look. The shoe features a predominantly black upper, constructed from a combination of durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of skateboarding. Clear overlays add a unique twist, providing a futuristic aesthetic while maintaining the shoe’s sleek profile. Material and Build The upper is made from…

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The Nike Air Max 90 ‘Olympic’ will make a significant splash in the sneaker world with its upcoming release on July 12th. This commemorative edition is part of Nike’s celebration of the Olympic spirit, blending classic design elements with modern aesthetics. Here’s a detailed look at what makes this release so special. Design and Aesthetics The Nike Air Max 90 “Olympic” showcases a sophisticated yet sporty look. The design leans heavily into elegance and pedigree, avoiding overly flashy elements in favour of a more refined aesthetic. The shoe features off-white “Coconut” milk hits on the ridged TPU sections, providing a…

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Walking into the gleaming atriums of Dubai’s malls or the polished boutiques of Abu Dhabi, it’s easy to feel that luxury fashion in the United Arab Emirates is reserved for the ultra-wealthy. I used to think the same. But after years of living here, shopping here, and frankly, making my wardrobe work on a budget, I’ve learned that finding luxury fashion on a budget is not only possible — it’s an art form. And in the UAE, it’s an art form with more opportunity than almost anywhere else in the world. For a complete overview of fashion, culture, icons and…

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The Air Jordan brand is gearing up for a monumental year in 2025, marking its 40th anniversary with some highly anticipated releases. Among the most exciting rumours is the Air Jordan 4 “White Cement” Returning in 2025, a classic sneaker beloved by fans and collectors alike. According to reputable source @zsneakerheadz, the White Cement Jordan 4s are slated for a Summer 2025 release. They promise a true-to-the-original execution of materials and shape. The Anticipation Builds On June 12th, 2024, @zsneakerheadz confirmed that the Air Jordan 4 “White Cement” is making a comeback, much to the delight of sneaker enthusiasts. This…

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I’ve lived in the UAE long enough to see trends come and go, but the wave of fitness culture here feels different. Over the last few years, Fitness Events UAE has gone from a casual search term to a powerful movement driving change in our communities. In both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, initiatives are popping up that go far beyond gym memberships — they’re redefining how we live, socialise, and even work. This is not just about working out; it’s about reshaping our national identity around health and vitality. The Energy Behind the Movement There’s something special about watching Sheikh…

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to establish itself as a global hub for luxury, style, and innovation. As we look ahead to 2024, the fashion calendar is packed with must-attend events that promise to showcase the latest trends, breakthrough designers, and exclusive collections. From the glitz of Dubai Fashion Week to the cultural flair of Abu Dhabi Fashion Festival, here’s a detailed preview of the most anticipated fashion events in the UAE for 2024. This guide will help fashion enthusiasts navigate the bustling scene, providing insider tips and behind-the-scenes insights. Dubai Fashion Week 2024 Dubai Fashion Week is undoubtedly…

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There is a glass display case inside Presentedby at The Dubai Mall that tells you everything you need to know about sneaker culture in the UAE. Behind it sits a pair of Nike Air Yeezy 2s, a collaboration that no longer exists in any official capacity, sitting in near-mint condition at a price that rivals a business-class flight to New York. Nobody in the store treats this as unusual. In Dubai, it is simply how things are. The UAE’s sneaker scene is no longer a subculture finding its feet. It is a mature, economically significant, globally connected market valued at…

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In a stunning turn of events, Virginie Viard, the esteemed creative director of Chanel, announced her sudden resignation on June 5, 2024. This unexpected departure has sent shockwaves through the fashion industry, prompting a flurry of speculation about who will step into her shoes. The rumour mill has been abuzz with names, but one name has risen to the top as a potential successor. Jeremy Scott: Creative Director of Chanel? Virginie Viard’s Legacy at Chanel Virginie Viard took the reins at Chanel in 2019 following the death of the legendary Karl Lagerfeld. Viard, who had been Lagerfeld’s right-hand for over…

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