Lifestyle

Why Gen-Z are Turning Away from Sneakers

In the dynamic world of fashion, trends are in constant flux, and the latest shift is significant. Gen Z creatives are increasingly turning away from sneakers, marking the dawn of a post-sneaker era. This change is not just about a preference for different footwear but signifies a broader cultural movement away from the ubiquity of sneakers, especially bootleg versions of iconic designs. This article explores the reasons behind this shift, the impact on the fashion industry, and what the future holds for footwear.

Why Gen-Z Creatives Are Turning Away from Sneakers

The Saturation of the Sneaker Market

For years, sneakers have been a staple in the wardrobes of fashion enthusiasts, especially among the youth. Iconic brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma have dominated the market, with their sneakers becoming symbols of style and status. However, the market has become oversaturated with countless iterations and bootlegs of classic designs, leading to a sense of fatigue among consumers.

“Sneakers used to be a rarity, a statement piece. Now, they’re everywhere, and their exclusivity has waned.” Virgil Abloh

The Rise of the Post-Sneaker Era

The post-sneaker era is characterized by a shift towards more unique and individualistic forms of expression. Young designers are moving away from the traditional sneaker designs and experimenting with new forms of footwear that offer a fresh perspective. This movement is driven by a desire for originality and a rejection of the mass-produced culture that sneakers have come to represent.

Example

One notable example is the rise of handmade and bespoke footwear. Brands like Rombaut and CamperLab are gaining popularity for their innovative designs that prioritize sustainability and individuality over mass production.

READ MORE: Yeezy Day Restocks

The Impact of Sneaker Culture on the Environment

Another significant factor driving the move away from sneakers is the growing awareness of environmental issues. The production of sneakers is resource-intensive and often involves unsustainable practices. As Gen Z becomes more environmentally conscious, there is a shift towards footwear that is eco-friendly and ethically produced.

Social media has played a crucial role in this transition. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become breeding grounds for new trends and have given a voice to young designers who are challenging the status quo. The emphasis is now on creativity and authenticity, rather than following the herd.

“Social media has democratized fashion. Young creatives are no longer bound by traditional norms. They’re setting new trends that resonate with their values and aesthetics.” Heron preston

Case Study: The Success of Non-Sneaker Brands

Several non-sneaker brands have successfully tapped into this shift, offering alternatives that cater to the desire for uniqueness and sustainability.

Rombaut: Known for its vegan and biodegradable footwear, Rombaut has become a favorite among eco-conscious consumers.

CamperLab: This brand experiments with unconventional designs, attracting those who seek distinctiveness in their footwear.

Historical Context

The sneaker revolution began in the 1980s with the rise of hip-hop culture and the endorsement of sneakers by high-profile athletes. Brands like Nike and Adidas capitalized on this trend, turning sneakers into cultural icons. However, the very elements that once made sneakers a symbol of rebellion and individuality have now become mainstream, leading to a natural evolution in fashion preferences.

The Future of Footwear

The post-sneaker era is just beginning, and its full impact on the fashion industry remains to be seen. However, the shift towards more sustainable, unique, and culturally significant footwear is likely to continue. Young designers are not just creating shoes; they are making statements that reflect their values and vision for the future.

For more insights into the latest trends and lifestyle updates in the UAE, visit What’s Hot in UAE.

Related Topics:2024 Fashion Gen Z sneakers uae

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The Journey of Air Jordan: A Legacy

Lifestyle

The Incredibly Rare Air Jordan 11 “Purple Rain” Made for Prince Is Up for Sale for $100,000

In the world of sneakers, there are rare pairs—and then there are one-of-one grails that redefine exclusivity. The Air Jordan 11 “Purple Rain”, a sneaker crafted exclusively for the legendary musician Prince, falls into the latter category. But in an unexpected twist, the shoes never made it into his hands before his passing in 2016. Now, they’ve surfaced for sale at a staggering $100,000.

Here’s what makes this Air Jordan 11 one of the most unique sneaker releases ever.

air jordan 11 prince purple 8 — Air Jordan 11 prince purple

1. A Sneaker Fit for Royalty: The Design & Tribute to Prince

Jordan Brand designed this one-of-a-kind sneaker as a tribute to Prince’s iconic style, music, and legacy. The details make it a truly special creation:

✅ Regal Purple Colorway – A deep purple hue dominates the shoe, honoring Prince’s signature look and his legendary album Purple Rain.

✅ Luxury Materials – The sneaker features plush velvet mudguards and a soft suede upper and tongue, adding to its premium feel.

✅ Metallic Silver Accents – The Jumpman logo at the ankle shines in metallic silver, adding a touch of elegance.

✅ Custom Insoles – Inside, the insoles feature:

“Jumpman” written in Prince’s iconic typeface

Imagery of falling rain, symbolizing his most famous song, Purple Rain

These details make this sneaker more than just footwear—it’s a piece of music and fashion history.

2. The Rarity: Why This Air Jordan 11 Is Truly One of One

Unlike other limited-edition collaborations, this isn’t a general release or a sample pair. It’s a sneaker that was:

🔹 Exclusively designed for Prince – Jordan Brand intended this pair specifically for him, but sadly, he passed before receiving them.

🔹 Only one pair exists in the world – Unlike other special releases that might have 10 or even 100 pairs, this Air Jordan 11 is a true one-of-one.

🔹 Priced at $100,000 – This makes it one of the most expensive Air Jordans ever listed for sale.

For sneaker collectors and Prince fans, owning this shoe is like owning a museum artifact.

3. The Market Impact: Will We See More Music x Sneaker Grails?

The release of the Purple Rain Air Jordan 11 brings up a bigger conversation—how music and sneakers continue to collide in exclusive ways.

🎤 Artists Have Defined Sneaker Culture – From Travis Scott’s collaborations with Jordan Brand to Drake’s OVO releases, hip-hop and music icons have shaped sneaker trends.

👟 One-of-One Sneakers Are the Future of Collecting – With NFTs, physical exclusivity, and auction-style releases, ultra-rare sneakers like this one will likely increase in demand.

💰 Will It Sell for $100,000? – The sneaker market has seen record-breaking sales before, including:

Kanye West’s Nike Air Yeezy 1 “Grammy” pair, which sold for $1.8 million

The 1985 Air Jordan 1 worn by Michael Jordan, which sold for $560,000

A six-figure sneaker isn’t unheard of, but whoever buys this pair isn’t just buying a sneaker—they’re buying a piece of Prince’s legacy.

BAPE and Crocs Drop Their First-Ever Collaboration

Final Thoughts: A Grail Unlike Any Other

The Air Jordan 11 “Purple Rain” is not just a sneaker—it’s a tribute to one of the greatest musicians of all time, blending basketball, fashion, and music history into one pair of shoes. With only one pair in existence, it’s a collector’s dream—but only for those with deep pockets.

Would you drop $100,000 for this piece of sneaker history?

Read more in our online magazine:
https://whatshotinuae.com

Lifestyle

BAPE and Crocs Drop Their First-Ever Collaboration

BAPE and Crocs new collab looks pretty dope

Streetwear meets comfort as A Bathing Ape (BAPE) and Crocs come together for an unexpected but highly anticipated collaboration. For the first time, the Japanese streetwear giant has teamed up with the undisputed king of foam footwear, delivering a three-pack of BAPE x Crocs Classic Clog designs that fuse bold camo aesthetics with Crocs’ signature comfort.

Set to launch globally on March 8, 2025, this collaboration is shaping up to be one of the most hyped sneaker-adjacent drops of the year.

A Classic Clog, Reimagined with BAPE DNA

The BAPE x Crocs collection is exactly what fans of both brands would expect—a vibrant collision of streetwear and laid-back utility.

👟 Signature ABC Camo Print: The collaboration showcases BAPE’s legendary camouflage pattern, splashed across three colorways:
✔ Classic Olive Camo – A timeless BAPE staple.
✔ Bright Blue Camo – A fresh, energetic option.
✔ Hot Pink Camo – A standout choice for those who want to make a statement.

🎨 Exclusive BAPE-Themed Jibbitz:
No Crocs collaboration is complete without custom Jibbitz charms, and this collection delivers:
✔ BAPE Ape Head
✔ Baby Milo
✔ Shark Face Design
✔ “Ape Shall Never Kill Ape” Slogan

🔗 Co-Branding Details:
The BAPE “R” logo appears on the strap fasteners, alongside dual branding on the footbeds, ensuring these clogs remain a collector’s item for streetwear fans.

Release Date and Where to Buy

📅 March 8, 2025 – Exclusive BAPE.com & BAPE Store Release
🌍 March 12, 2025 – Crocs.com & Global Retailers

The collection will be available in-store and online, with select BAPE locations and global retailers carrying the drop.

🛒 Price: Retail pricing has not yet been confirmed, but expect it to land in the premium tier due to its limited-edition status.

The Growing Influence of Crocs in Streetwear

Crocs has gone from a comfort-focused brand to a streetwear powerhouse, thanks to collaborations with names like Salehe Bembury, SZA, Post Malone, and Balenciaga. This BAPE crossover further solidifies the brand’s ability to tap into sneaker culture while maintaining its functional, laid-back identity.

With BAPE’s devoted following in Japan and worldwide, plus Crocs’ recent dominance in hype-driven footwear, this release is poised to be one of the biggest drops of the season.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Hypebeasts & Comfort Seekers

The BAPE x Crocs Classic Clog is a fusion of nostalgia, streetwear history, and everyday comfort. Whether you’re a die-hard BAPE fan, a Crocs convert, or just someone who appreciates bold design, this collaboration is not one to miss.

🔥 Mark your calendars for March 8 & March 12, and be ready to cop!

The Incredibly Rare Air Jordan 11 “Purple Rain” Made for Prince Is Up for Sale for $100,000

Lifestyle

Tom Ford Debuts Its First-Ever Ramadan Collection, Exclusively in the GCC

Luxury fashion house Tom Ford has entered a new era by unveiling its first-ever Ramadan Collection, available exclusively in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This milestone marks the brand’s deepening connection with its Middle Eastern clientele, offering a refined and elegant capsule collection tailored for the holy month.

While fashion lovers eagerly anticipate Haider Ackermann’s debut collection as Tom Ford’s new creative director at Paris Fashion Week, this Ramadan-exclusive drop proves that the brand continues to evolve, blending sophistication, cultural appreciation, and modern luxury.

A Collection Inspired by Dawn and Dusk

Taking inspiration from the serene transitions of early morning and sunset, Tom Ford’s Ramadan Collection is all about tranquility, warmth, and effortless style. The colour palette embodies sky blue and light sand, reflecting the calmness of pre-dawn suhoor gatherings and the golden glow of sunset iftar moments.

The collection is designed with both men and women in mind, offering elegant, versatile, and lightweight ensembles perfect for Ramadan’s spiritual and social settings.

Tom Ford's Ramadan Collection touches new areas of social fashion — Tom Ford’s Ramadan Collection touches new areas of social fashion

For Women: Timeless Elegance Meets Modern Luxury

The women’s collection is a perfect fusion of grace and minimalism, featuring:

👗 Sky Blue Kaftan & Matching Set – A flowing kaftan and a coordinated shirt and trousers set, ideal for suhoor and iftar gatherings.
🌾 Light Sand Maxi Shirt Dress – A modest yet statement-making piece, offering both refinement and comfort.
👚 Sand-Toned Coordinated Set – A relaxed yet sophisticated shirt and trousers combination.

To complement these outfits, Tom Ford’s Ramadan Collection includes a selection of luxurious accessories:
✨ Handbags in shimmering gold glitter leather, featuring the signature T-clasp closure.
👡 Gold lizard-textured shoes, available in both high heels and flats.

These versatile, statement pieces elevate any Ramadan wardrobe, embodying modest luxury with an effortless edge.

Tom Ford's Ramadan Collection is something fresh for the GCC — Tom Ford’s Ramadan Collection is something fresh for the GCC

For Men: Relaxed, Polished, and Ramadan-Ready

The men’s collection strikes a balance between casual sophistication and modern tailoring, featuring:

👕 Sky Blue Shirt & Shorts Set – A lightweight, breathable combination, perfect for warm Ramadan nights.
🧥 Bomber Jacket & Joggers in Chocolate & Camel – A relaxed yet polished set designed for both comfort and style.

To complete the look, men’s accessories include:
💳 Emerald green croc-stamped leather wallets & cardholders, adding a touch of bold elegance.
🥿 Dark wood sandals & deep aqua croc-stamped leather mules, bringing an understated yet fashion-forward finish to any Ramadan outfit.

With these refined essentials, Tom Ford ensures that every suhoor and iftar gathering is met with unparalleled style.

Where to Buy the Tom Ford Ramadan Collection

📍 Available Exclusively at: Tom Ford, The Dubai Mall
📅 Launch Date: February 7, 2025

As Tom Ford’s first official Ramadan collection, this limited-edition release cements the brand’s commitment to embracing cultural traditions with modern sophistication.

With timeless silhouettes, rich textures, and an emphasis on refined luxury, the Ramadan Collection is designed for those who appreciate elegance in every moment.