The Brands and Outfits Olympians Are Sporting This Winter
Image Courtesy: Fast Company
Let the games begin for best dressed! The Olympic games have finally returned, and they are more stylish than ever. Fashion and sports collide as the athletes arrive, showcasing famous fashion designers from across the world. The opening ceremonies of this year's winter Olympics transformed into a runway event with uniforms unique to the style and culture of each country. This year’s participating teams are dressed in some of the most stylish and technologically advanced outfits, designed to enhance performance during the games and elicit national pride at the ceremonies. Beijing’s 2022 Winter Olympics is already one of the most talked-about opening ceremonies in terms of fashion.
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American designer Ralph Lauren made his fifteenth consecutive appearance as the official U.S. Olympian outfitter. As the epitome of chic and classic fashion, Ralph Lauren designed looks for the team that give the athletes an all-American preppy appearance. Between stylish parkas, matching pants, and trendy boots, the team fits the classic American winter image. However, these designer anoraks are different from the rest. They feature intelligent insulation technology, allowing the clothing to adapt to changes in temperature and climate. Ultimately, the outfits are emblazoned with the US national flag and Ralph Lauren logo.
Image Courtesy: WWD
During the opening ceremonies, team Italy adorned cape coats featuring the colors of their flag. Of course, it was only fitting that these were styled by the famous Italian designer, Giorgio Armani. His brand, Emporio Armani, has been a staple for the country, designing uniforms that give that sense of empowerment and unity since 2012. The Olympians wore Armani with pride and honor as they entered the stadium. The capes are very clearly meant to resemble their national flag, expressing their patriotism and love for their country.
Image Courtesy: Footwear News
Great Britain’s Olympic uniforms took the internet by storm, deemed one of the most stylish in the opening ceremonies. As an icon of London style, British designer Ben Sherman was made the official outfitter for team Great Britain for the second time. The outfits feature Union Jack shirts and matching beanies paired with navy blue peacoats insulated with recycled marine plastic. To accessorize, the athletes were geared with lug sole Chelsea boots, completing the “classic and chic” look.
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Sportscraft, known as "one of Australia's most trusted fashion and lifestyle brands" for outstanding and consistent fit, is the official uniform provider for the Australian team for the ninth time, and I won't hesitate to say that I'm obsessed. The Australian Olympic crest can be found on the buttons of the green and gold formal uniforms, which feature a dark-green wool-blend coat. Also, the Australian footwear brand, Volley, is the official shoe designer for athletes. Sportscraft dressed the Australian delegation in green camouflage and yellow beanies as part of this year's opening ceremonies.
Image Courtesy: NBC Chicago
Taking a unique approach to dressing this year's Olympians, Le Coq Sportif, created by Émile Camuset in 1882, has designed a vintage-inspired look for the French athletes. Considering this was the first time the French sportswear brand had designed uniforms for the French team in fifty years, they wanted to make an impression. The French Olympians wore winter coats that resembled the French flag, making this a prideful and empowering experience for them and everyone watching.
Throughout the Olympic games, countries have the unique opportunity to share their national identity through fashion. In many ways, fashion reflects identity, and the Olympics are an incredible showcase of national pride. During the Parade of Nations, everyone looks forward to seeing the teams emerge in distinctive uniforms designed for their country. This year's brands and outfits will surely not be forgotten.
Strike Out,
Writer: Samantha Petters
Editor: Noelle Knowlton & Lexi Fernandez
Graphic Designer: Abbey Fleming
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