Author: Alina Ali

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Alina Ali is a lifestyle writer based in the UAE, with a sharp eye for couture, rare sneakers, and all things fashion-forward. With a background in high-end features and a passion for subculture trends, she covers everything from underground streetwear to luxury lifestyle stories that define what’s next in the UAE. When she’s not chasing the latest collab drop or front-row show, you’ll find her café-hopping in Dubai — always on the lookout for the next cool thing.

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a new wave of female sneaker enthusiasts, or sneakerheads, is shaking up a traditionally male-dominated industry. These women are redefining sneaker culture. They are proving that style and passion for kicks know no gender boundaries. By challenging stereotypes and carving out their space in the sneaker community, they are inspiring a shift in attitudes across the region. Trailblazing Female Sneakerheads in the UAE The UAE has become home to a growing number of female sneakerheads. These women are making a name for themselves through creativity, innovation, and unapologetic love for sneakers: The Evolution of…

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Luxury consignment stores are carving out a unique space in the UAE’s thriving fashion market. Once considered a niche, the pre-loved luxury market is now booming. This is driven by the demand for sustainable fashion, affordable access to high-end brands, and the allure of finding rare, discontinued items. This trend reflects global shifts in consumer behaviour but is particularly prominent in the UAE’s cosmopolitan and fashion-forward environment. Here we explore the rise of these luxury consignment stores in the UAE. The Growth of Pre-Loved Luxury in the UAE Globally, the market for pre-owned luxury goods is on a remarkable upward…

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The sneaker market has never been more dynamic—or more treacherous. As the demand for exclusive, limited-edition sneakers reaches unprecedented levels, counterfeiters have stepped up their game, creating fakes that can be difficult to spot even for seasoned collectors. For sneakerheads, owning a pair of authentic kicks isn’t just about style—it’s about investing in a piece of culture, craftsmanship, and history. Whether you’re chasing the latest drops or searching for a grail to complete your collection, ensuring authenticity is crucial to avoid wasting money and tarnishing your collection. In this guide, we’ll share 15 tips for buying legit sneakers and help…

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The UAE has emerged as a hub for creativity and innovation in the global fashion scene, with homegrown and expatriate designers crafting collections that blend tradition, luxury, and modernity. From couture masterpieces to sustainable ready-to-wear collections, these designers are putting the UAE on the fashion map, proving that this region is a powerhouse of style. We take a look below at 10 UAE-based fashion designers who have been wowing catwalks around the world. 1. Huda Al Nuaimi Huda Al Nuaimi is celebrated for her vibrant, handcrafted designs that merge Middle Eastern traditions with contemporary luxury. Known for her embroidered abayas…

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As 2024 comes to a close, sneaker enthusiasts are already looking ahead to the exciting lineup of releases in 2025. Among the most anticipated drops is the Air Jordan 5 “Year of the Snake”. This edition is a key addition to Jordan Brand’s annual Zodiac-inspired collection. This first in-hand look offers a tantalising preview. It is sure to be one of the standout sneakers of the new year. Design Details That Make an Impact on the Air Jordan 5 “Year of the Snake” The design of the Air Jordan 5 “Year of the Snake” is a masterful blend of understated…

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Rolex is, without question, the most influential and recognisable watchmaker in the world. The Crown produces the market’s most iconic timepieces, setting trends that the entire industry inevitably follows. Ranking the top ten Rolex watches might seem a daunting task. After all, how can you choose a definitive winner when the brand has consistently delivered groundbreaking and highly sought-after designs throughout its illustrious 119-year history? However, when delving deeper into Rolex’s catalogue, it becomes evident that the brand’s dominance stems from its focused approach. Unlike other watchmakers that regularly introduce a flood of new designs, Rolex has remained highly selective,…

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Victor Wembanyama might now be basketball’s “Alien,” but Steph Curry’s otherworldly skills redefined the sport long before. Known for his jaw-dropping 40-foot three-pointers and gravity-defying shots, Curry’s unparalleled talent reshaped the game entirely. As the Golden State Warriors ignite their 2024-25 season with a blazing start, the Baby-Faced Assassin seems ready to spearhead their journey toward a potential fifth championship. Under Armour supports this mission with its latest launch: the UA Curry 12 “Extraterrestrial.” A Cosmic Tribute to a Basketball Legend The UA Curry 12 “Extraterrestrial” is more than just a sneaker—it’s a bold statement. Drawing inspiration from the classic…

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Alexander McQueen, a name synonymous with provocative and boundary-pushing design, left an indelible mark on the fashion world. Born Lee Alexander McQueen on 17 March 1969 in London, the British designer rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most celebrated fashion icons of his time. He was known for his theatrical runway shows and avant-garde collections. McQueen transformed fashion into an art form. His work challenged societal norms and celebrated raw creativity. Alexander McQueen: The Rebel of British Fashion. Early Life and Beginnings Raised in a working-class family in London’s East End, McQueen showed an early interest in…

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The year 2024 has been monumental for Kobe Bryant’s sneaker legacy, with a series of high-profile Nike releases paying tribute to the Mamba’s enduring influence. From the return of fan-favourite silhouettes like the Kobe 4 and Kobe 8 in iconic colourways to this new crossover into lifestyle footwear, Nike continues to honour the legend. They do this with designs that resonate across generations. As the year draws to a close, the release of the black Nike Air Force 1 Low “Kobe Bryant” promises to be one of the most coveted drops of the season. A Tribute in Limited Numbers This…

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In a collaboration that has sent shockwaves through the worlds of art and luxury horology, Audemars Piguet has joined forces with iconic artist Brian Donnelly—better known as KAWS—to launch what is undoubtedly the hypiest watch of 2024. With its bold design and fusion of pop art aesthetics, this watch is redefining the boundaries of creativity in timepiece design. For two years, KAWS managed to keep the collaboration under wraps. He went to great lengths to avoid public detection. The artist, renowned for his signature X-motif and reimagining of beloved cartoon characters, even adopted the habit of twisting his wrist inward…

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