The Olympic Games have always been a showcase of athletic excellence, but in recent years, they have also become a stage for global fashion. At this Winter Olympics’ opening ceremony, the myriad uniform designs showed how fashion can shape a nation’s first impression, helping it stand out or fade into the background.
Best:
Team Haiti in Stella Jean:
Designed by Stella Jean and inspired by Haitian artist Edouard Duval Carrie, Team Haiti’s uniforms paid tribute to Toussaint Louverture and Haiti’s fight for independence. Jean’s hand-painted brushstrokes depicted intricate botanical details, a bold red horse, and a vibrant expanse of blue. The warmth and vibrancy of these outfits stood in striking contrast to the winter terrain. Though Haiti has only a brief history at the Winter Olympics and sent just two athletes this year, the team made a strong statement with their bold, symbolic designs.
Team Mongolia in GOYOL:
Team Mongolia’s uniforms were designed by GOYOL and inspired by traditional attire from the era of the Great Mongol Empire. The designs incorporated a high-collared deel, silk trim, horn motifs in the embroidery, cashmere, and a skirt slit, reinterpreting traditional dress and longstanding cultural symbols in a contemporary context. These details effectively highlighted aspects of Mongolia’s history and cultural heritage.
Team USA in Ralph Lauren:
Designed by Ralph Lauren, Team USA’s uniforms showcased a long white wool coat layered over a knit sweater displaying the American flag. This was paired with white tailored pants and complete with knit beanies and sturdy winter boots. The red, white, and blue color scheme mirrored the national flag, resulting in a clean, coordinated look that echoed tradition and national symbolism.
Worst:
Team Australia in Karbon:
Designed by Karbon, Team Australia’s uniforms leaned heavily into functionality. The green and gold color scheme referenced national colors, and the outerwear created a practical, sport-driven silhouette suited for winter conditions. However, the overall design resembled high-end ski gear more than ceremonial dress, falling flat when compared with teams that incorporated more overt cultural references.
Team Sweden in Uniqlo
Designed by Uniqlo, Team Sweden’s uniforms featured silhouettes in solid blue and yellow, which reflected the colors of its national flag. This sleek, cohesive look aligns with Uniqlo’s well-known minimalist aesthetic. However, without impactful cultural references or decorative elements, its understated approach made the uniforms less distinctive.
Team New Zealand in Kathmandu:
Designed by Kathmandu, Team New Zealand’s uniforms drew on the country’s outdoor identity. The collection included insulated jackets, performance layers, and athletic tailoring, centered around the motif of a silver fern. Several pieces also incorporated recycled materials, reflecting Kathmandu’s focus on technical outerwear and sustainability. Nonetheless, with a restrained color palette and emphasis on functionality, New Zealand’s uniforms failed to command attention on the global stage.
