6 it-girl sneakers you need for the Dubai summer
Summer in is a-coming, and with it, a dilemma – what must one wear that doesn't want to make them never leave the house again? Comfort is key when it comes to dressing for the toughest season of the year, and limping around in uncomfortable shoes while the sweat soaks through your clothes and the humidity destroys your blow-dry is not the vibe we're going for. We predict these uber floaty footwear options will be all the rage come summer, because comfort doesn't have to be at the cost of style. ASICS x Kiko Kostadinov UB8-S GT-2160 in Brown Storm Sienna
The chunky, Y2K sneaker trend hasn't died yet and for good reason. Often designed for running or other athletic activity, these are perhaps the most comfortable types of shoes out there, coming in eclectic colourways that you can use to dress your outfit up or down. This new ASICS design collaboration is bringing together the London-based designer and the shoe brand for a drop you can't miss. Chocolate brown for the win.
Dhs1,256 on kickscrew.com Nike Cortez in White/Varsity Red
Another retro win, the Nike Cortez is one of the brand's most iconic models, first released in 1972. Designed for long-distance runners to go faster for longer, this shoe will provide you the ultimate runner's comfort this summer, and the classic colourway is versatile enough for you to dress up or down with anything. Wear to work, wear to dinner, wear it to go running. You'll get the most out of your money. It's also the most economical shoe on this list, which is always a win.
starting from Dhs229, nike.com New Balance X Miu Miu 530 SL in Metallic-Mesh
This collaboration was one for the books – a beautiful marriage of high and low dressing that's sure to add life to any boring outfit. New Balance are said to be notoriously comfortable, and with the flare of the Miu Miu design, these metallic-mesh sneakers are a chic-barbecue-dad dream. The dynamics of most of the shoes on this list of foot-hugging, race shoe design that's all the rage right now, and this one is a premium option.
Dhs4,300, miumiu.com Adidas Tokyo in Blue Bird
The Adidas Tokyo is a sweet tribute to the running shoes of the 70s, the originals that have inspired a whole generation to adopt the style of yesteryear. Deliciously retro, these are perfect for your everyday sneaker, something you can throw on as you head out to work or to run errands. Durable, low maintenance and they come in four different colourways, but we're a fan of texture, which is why the suede models are our pick.
Dhs479, adidas.ae Puma Speedcat in For All Time Red
Designed to emulate the look of a race shoe, the Speedcat is a 25-year-old classic that has been revived in recent times. Sleek lines, bold colours and a standout look – that is the Speedcat, and if you're mostly into basics for your wardrobe, a minimal shoe in a bold colour not only keeps that theme going but dresses up a boring outfit. Great for lots of walking, movement and heavy wear. Comes in six different colourways, but the red is the icon.
Dhs519, ae.puma.com
A textural haven, if you ask us – the Adidas Wales Bonner range is perhaps their most trendy and this Samba Millennium in a silver-crocodile print mix is less a shoe, more an accessory, with all the walking comfort of the OG Samba. The colours and textures make for easy styling. Throw these on with a some basics and you have a style statement.
Dhs780 on farfetch.com
Images: Socials
> Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Al Etihad
02-07-2025
- Al Etihad
McLaren boss offers Brad Pitt second chance to hit 322 km/h
2 July 2025 19:55 LONDON (Reuters) Brad Pitt's F1 movie is topping the box office charts worldwide but the Hollywood A-lister is not done with Formula One, or his fictional big screen character Sonny Hayes, Pitt has been offered a second chance to don race overalls and lap at 200 mph (322 kilometres per hour).McLaren F1 Chief Executive Zak Brown told Reuters on Wednesday that Pitt had a standing offer to "come out and play" - and expected the 61-year-old not only to take him up on it but also take his passion for racing drove a Formula One car for the first time with McLaren at Austin's Circuit of the Americas last month, after driving F2 cars disguised as F1 cars for the movie, and has been raving about the experience ever since. He did have one regret, however. "Ask me how fast I went. Three mph short of 200 mph (322 km/h)," Pitt said at the New York premiere. "I want to go back. I want to hit 200."Brown indicated that it could be arranged."He did a great job, he can drive a race car," he said at a McLaren event for the team's army of fans in London's Trafalgar Square, with title-chasing drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris."I've traded notes with him, it was the time of his life. I feel like he's a racer now, so anytime he wants to come out and play he's more than welcome to. And that's a standing offer."When asked if he expected Pitt to take him up on it, Brown replied: "I wouldn't be surprised looking at the level of enthusiasm that he had. I sent him his data, and he wanted to understand and learn. So yeah, I bet he will.""I wouldn't be surprised if one day you saw Brad Pitt racing some sort of sports car," said Brown. "Paul Newman always used to say he was a racing driver, and an actor in his spare time."He (Pitt) is clearly in good physical shape. He had no physical limitations."Pitt would not be the first Hollywood heartthrob to go racing for real. Patrick Dempsey, star of medical drama Grey's Anatomy, has raced Porsches at Le Mans as did the late Paul Newman, who also founded Newman/Haas Racing.
The National
19-06-2025
- The National
Father's Day gift guide: Last‑minute ideas, from New Balance sneakers to a Formula One book
Father's Day in the UAE is just around the corner, but there's still time to pick out a gift that shows genuine appreciation. Whether your dad is a fan of food, fashion, toys or tech, here's a round‑up of options that are practical and fun. Fashion New Balance Made in USA 993, Dh1,000 New Balance has become synonymous with the 'dad shoe' moniker over the years and for good reason. This running-inspired trainer blends comfort, durability and heritage design. The shoe incorporates cushioning technology for shock absorption and comfort, ideal for active dads. The 993 has a classic silhouette with an understated style that is good for both casual wear and light athletic use. Polaris Date, Dh36,700, Jaeger-LeCoultre The most expensive gift on the list, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Date is a 42mm stainless steel timepiece that balances sportiness with elegance. Powered by the in-house Calibre 899, it offers a 70-hour power reserve. The dial uses a mix of textures, including sunray, grained and opaline finishes, brought to life with a lacquered gradient in deep green, blue or grey. Water-resistant up to 200 metres, and with a quick-change rubber strap, it works as both a daily-wear watch and an adventure piece. SunGod x McLaren Core Renegades Plus, Dh603, McLaren store The SunGod x McLaren Core Renegades Plus sunglasses mix performance with clean design. Aimed at the most ardent fans of motorsports, this limited-edition release features ultra-lightweight frames made from recycled TR90, finished in frosted black with McLaren's papaya orange detailing and subtle lens branding. The polarised nylon lenses are designed to block both UVA and UVB rays, while also helping to reduce glare. A triple-layer coating resists scratches over time. The frames use screw-free pop-lock hinges, which offer a secure fit and added durability. Toys and gaming Porsche 911, Dh649, Lego Lego isn't just for children any more, as the brand has started catering to adults with more intricate sets that can double as display pieces. This includes the Porsche 911 Icons set, which features 1,458 blocks. Builders can choose to assemble the Turbo or Targa version of the German car, each featuring elements such as the rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-six engine, working steering, gearshift, emergency brake and tilting seats. Lego is also celebrating Father's Day in its shops across the UAE on Saturday with an event that invites fathers and children to create Lego versions of typical gifts given during the holiday, such as mugs, wallets and drills. Valve Steam Deck, Dh2,899, Virgin Megastores The Valve Steam Deck is a powerful handheld gaming device that plays PC games on the go. It has the look of a chunky game controller with a built-in screen, but it can run full games from the Steam library just as a computer would. While children might opt for the new Nintendo Switch 2, dad may prefer a system that lets him play some favourite classics during his free time. Technology Sonos Arc soundbar, Dh3,899, Amazon For a cinema-like experience at home, a sound system upgrade goes a long way. And the Sonos Arc is a compact but powerful smart sound bar that uses Dolby Atmos to make viewing far more immersive. Families can enjoy watching films and television together, or dad can use it for everything from sport events to action films. For full surround sound and powerful bass, it can be upgraded with the Sub wireless subwoofer and Era 300 speakers. Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 10-in 1-Ice Cream & Frozen Drink Maker, Dh1,199, Ninja It's the kitchen gadget many didn't know they needed but suddenly want. The 10 one-touch programmes include ice cream, sorbet, gelato, milkshake, frappe, frozen drink, slushie, frozen yoghurt and mix-in, so choices can be tailored to suit needs and wants. Decadent dessert aside, the Ninja CREAMi can be used to make healthy foods such as protein milkshakes and fruit sorbets. Coffee-table books James Bond Destinations, Dh480, Tanagra For fathers who love James Bond, a book by Assouline features the famous locations featured throughout the 007 film franchise. Written by Daniel Pembrey, a seasoned journalist and devoted Bond fan, it explores more than 100 real-life places where Bond's adventures have unfolded. From the sunny beaches of Jamaica to the historic streets of Rome, each chapter includes exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes stories from producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli. Grands Prix: 75 Years of Formula One Racing, Dh360, Kinokuniya For Formula One fans, Grands Prix: 75 Years of Formula One Racing is a coffee-table book that traces the rich history of the motorsport from its launch in 1950 up to the present day. Featuring an introduction by three-time World Champion Jackie Stewart, it has more than 200 colour and black-and-white photographs showcasing the sport's most memorable moments, legendary cars, drivers and famous circuits such as Monaco, Monza and Silverstone. The book also explores rivalries, technical advancements and behind-the-scenes stories that have shaped the sport.
Khaleej Times
31-05-2025
- Khaleej Times
Should your sneakers look chunky or sleek? What fashion week says
There was a time when sneakers didn't just walk into a room — they stormed in. Super-sized soles, exaggerated forms, and unapologetically loud designs turned sidewalks into runways and feet into fashion billboards. If your shoes didn't weigh two kilos and demand a triple take, were you even flexing? Balenciaga's Triple S kicked off the seismic shift, Versace's Chain Reaction brought Greco-Roman bravado to streetwear, Louis Vuitton's Pharell-era LV Trainers looked like they came straight out of a sci-fi sequel, and Balmain's Unicorn sneakers might as well have been prototypes from a galactic fashion lab — part-sneaker, part-spaceship, and all statement. But just as the volume peaked, fashion — as it always does — changed course. Quietly, intentionally, and with the sort of elegance that doesn't need to shout. A quick glance at the front row of fashion week or a scroll through Instagram's most style-savvy feeds reveal it all: the sneaker game has shed its bulk. Sleek, minimalist silhouettes are dominating. The once-loud, maximalist aesthetic has been softened into something more refined, elegant, and — dare we say — feminine. Not in a gendered sense, but in terms of design language: delicate lines, softer forms, and lithe profiles are replacing the hulking shapes of seasons past. Miu Miu's collaboration with New Balance is perhaps the most iconic symbol of this shift. Reworking the 530 into something that felt like part-sneaker, part-ballerina slipper, they injected subversive femininity and ballet-flat grace into a world that once equated size with power. Loewe followed closely, with its Flow Runner and Ballet Runner models that marry featherlight construction with high-craft detailing, signaling that the new flex is quiet and considered. Even Balenciaga — the very house that led the charge into sneaker maximalism — has scaled back with its Monday sneakers. Sleek, almost modest, the silhouette stands in stark contrast to the behemoth Triple S. Where once there was aggressive bulk and oversized branding, there's now restraint. The same holds true across the luxury landscape. The likes of Dior, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton are all slimming down, creating silhouettes that aren't about stomping through the streets but gliding through them. This shift is more than just aesthetic. It's philosophical. Post-pandemic, there's growing consumer appetite for mindfulness, versatility, and timelessness. A sleek sneaker doesn't scream trend — it signals taste. It's a staple, not a seasonal impulse. And with the return of Y2K fashion, this makes perfect sense. The early 2000s weren't defined by mega soles; they celebrated minimalism. Slim, low-rise sneakers ruled the playground — and now, they're back and ruling the pavements. One name has re-emerged as the face of this return: adidas Samba. A shoe once confined to the shadows of football fields and forgotten closets, the Samba is now the epitome of effortless cool. Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and a slew of other street-style icons have cemented its place in the current fashion canon. But what really set it off was the Wales Bonner collaboration. British designer Grace Wales Bonner has reimagined the adidas Samba with Afro-Caribbean influences and refined detailing — creating editions that sell out instantly and command high resale value. This broader move towards sleeker sneakers is also a reflection of the 'quiet luxury' moment sweeping through fashion. While loud logos and overt branding still have their place, there's a growing appreciation for the understated. Hermès has long mastered this with its Day Sneakers — crafted in premium leather with minimal embellishments. They whisper wealth. Louis Vuitton's Sneakerinas push this sensibility further. These hybrid ballet-sneakers exude couture-level elegance while maintaining sporty roots. Bottega Veneta, with its Orbit sneakers, has created a design that feels like a study in modern architecture — futuristic, featherlight, and devoid of all excess. They're sneakers for those who don't need to prove anything, because they already know. Even Dior's sneaker playbook is evolving. Once known for bolder silhouettes like the B22, the maison has pivoted to models like the B27, the flatter and sleeker B33, and more recently, the B01 Match Sneaker — a tennis-inspired low-top that oozes minimalism and monochromatic finesse. It's luxe, lean, and utterly wearable. In similar fashion, brands like Loro Piana — long known for their whisper-soft cashmeres and walk-on-cloud sensibility — are now reaping the rewards of never having followed the chunky sneaker trend in the first place. Their 360 Flexy Walk and Week-End Walk models are having a quiet moment with a whole new generation of buyers. The rise of slim silhouettes has made Loro Piana, suddenly, feel ahead of the curve — without ever changing their pace. What unites these designs is a shift in luxury itself — from showy and immediate to thoughtful and enduring. And, just as importantly, they're far more wearable. Chunky sneakers, as bold as they were, demanded attention and very specific styling. Sleek sneakers? They're democratic. What unites these designs is a shift in luxury itself — from showy and immediate to thoughtful and enduring. And, just as importantly, they're far more wearable. Chunky sneakers, as bold as they were, demanded attention and very specific styling. Sleek sneakers? They're democratic. They slide under slim tailoring, elevate dresses, work with jeans, and feel equally at home in an airport lounge or a gallery opening. This evolution also reflects a maturation of sneaker culture itself. New-age sneaker enthusiasts are older, wiser, and more discerning. They still value drops and collaborations, but they're now looking for craftsmanship, sustainability, and wearability. Brands are responding with recycled materials, refined lines, and silhouettes that are not only fashion-forward but also environmentally and socially conscious. It's no surprise then that archival models are being dusted off and redesigned. From Reebok's Club C to Nike's Killshot and Puma's Speedcat, the spotlight is now on sleek classics that can be reintroduced with purpose. Even performance brands like On Running are betting big on minimalism, merging Swiss engineering with city style. It's a sign of the times — the age of visual noise is making space for visual clarity. In fashion, every shift tells a story. The oversized sneaker era was about rebellion, irreverence, and irony. But this new era of slim silhouettes is about evolution, intention, and identity. It's not about taking up space anymore — it's about fitting perfectly into your world. So no, the chunky sneaker isn't dead. It's just been asked to take a breather while its leaner cousin takes centre stage. Sleek is in, and it's here to stay.
