The opening ceremony of the Olympics sees the host country—France, this year—introduce themselves, and the participating international athletes, to the world.
First impressions are key, especially on a global stage, and what better way to showcase your country or region than with a cultural yet stylish uniform?
In recent years, participating regions have taken the opportunity to partner with their local designers and share an element of their visual culture with spectators. Tatler shares seven regions which are doing just that at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, which will take place on July 26.
Read more: Swimmer Ian Ho, who represents Hong Kong at the Paris Olympics, wants to make the city proud
Mongolia
For the ultimate show of strength and style, Mongolia’s opening ceremony uniform blends tradition with modernity resulting in one of the most impressive looks in Olympic history.
Mongolian designer brand Michel & Amazonka turned to the national deel—a style of tunic that can be elaborate or practical—and incorporated decorative gold embroidery across the bodice, cuffs and collar.
South Korea
South Korean label Musinsa Standard has transformed a powder blue suit into a retro-inspired youthful ensemble.
The lining features a blue and white watercolour scene, akin to traditional Korean depictions of nature, while the added belt on the blazer gives a nod to the ’80s and ’90s silhouettes that are popular in current fashion trends.
Haiti
Haitian designer Stella Jean partnered with Haitian artist Philippe Dodard to create uniforms featuring classic prints and silhouettes that convey the spirit of their home country.
The women’s skirt bears Dodard’s artworks, paired with a chambray shirt woven locally as part of the country’s tradition in spinning this fabric. Layered over top is a sleeveless blazer made from recycled fabric. The men’s uniform has trousers with a bold pattern, teamed with a field jacket inspired by the Haitian shirt guayabera—a nod to Jean’s grandfather—as well as a printed scarf.
Philippines
The Philippines’ Olympics opening ceremony uniform (Photo: Instagram / @francislibiran)
In a celebration of Filipino artistry and craftsmanship, local designer Francis Libiran has transformed his country’s flag into a standout piece for athletes to wear at the opening ceremony.
He took the sinag barong—a formal, lightweight shirt—and incorporated a triangular element across the body in blue and reg, mirroring the flag of the Philippines, as well as Pintados-inspired warrior patterns and sun rays embroidered on the collar.
USA
American designer Ralph Lauren fashioned a classic look for the athletes attending the opening ceremony, consisting of a navy blazer, striped shirt and denim jeans.
This uniform reflects both Ralph Lauren’s codes of sporty sophistication in signature silhouettes and the use of denim is synonymous with American style.
Chinese Taipei
Chinese Taipei’s Olympics opening ceremony uniform (Photo: Instagram / @justinxx_official)
Taiwanese designer Justin Chou of Just In XX, who created the team uniforms for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, is back with another culturally inspired look for this year’s opening ceremony.
The grey suit incorporates sustainably designed fabrics and the works of multiple artists including Paul Chiang, indigenous artisan Aing Banday and flower craftsman Peggy Lin.
France
Host country France is putting its best foot forward with a uniform designed by luxury house Berluti, which was established in 1895.
The athletes will sport sleek, tailored teal suits, with trousers or skirts and sleeves or sleeveless varieties. The silk lapels feature a blue and red ombre design, with white shirts peeking through to represent all the colours of the French flag.
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