The summer Olympics isn’t just about sports; it’s a fashion show too! Most countries bring out their best designers to face off in what many would say is the first competition — presentation.
Let’s dive into the most talked-about uniforms at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, trimming it down to the top 10, but first, we go through the worst fashion mishaps.
READ: Kenyans React to New Arsenal Kit Resembling Flag
Worst Designs 2024
France
The French team’s uniforms look like they were printed in Rive Road by someone using basic copy-and-paste skills on MS Paint. These professional athletes could be mistaken for ice cream sellers at the Olympics or flight attendants from a 70s TV show. This is not a good look for the hosts. The Hijab should be the least of France’s wardrobe issues. Bon Voyage.
Grade: E (see me)
Fashion Police: Suspect Designs Barely Making the Cut
South (not North) Korea
This outfit might look cool at first since Kimono-style designs have that natural oriental attraction. But if you think about it, this Korean uniform looks more like something you’d wear before undergoing surgery. The belt is way too high and could easily lean on a hotel robe look as opposed to a stylish traditional-urban outfit.
You might think they are hiding Mitumba watches under those jackets.
Grade: C
Canada
Not sure about you but why do I see Drake in this design? So team Canada had one heck of a tough colour to work with. It was bold of them to go for it and they almost pulled it off. Sadly, most aren’t feeling the vibe and think it is bold but uninspiring.
Grade: B-
Best Designs 2024
10. Japan
Team Japan went for a classic look with white blazers, polo shirts, and dark trousers. Designed by Asics, the uniforms used “Sunrise Red” to symbolize strength and warmth, inspired by the Paris sunrise.
Grade: B+
9. Brazil
Brazil’s uniforms, crafted by fast-fashion brand Riachuelo, were vibrant with shades of green, blue, and yellow, reflecting their flag. The designs included fauna and flora elements, finished off with Havaianas flip-flops. Fun and colourful.
Grade: B+
8. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s ceremonial wear blends traditional aesthetics with modern elements. The outfits had colours inspired by the flag with athletes wearing pre-pleated sarees, along with sneakers with gold details. It looked stylish and patriotic, and everyone loved it.
Team Sri Lanka pic.twitter.com/wPRRd0aWqV
— Lutaa (@LutochirT) July 26, 2024
Grade: A-
7. USA
The Team USA uniforms for the opening ceremony exuded a timeless American style, blending an understated yet refined design with a hint of laid-back charm in their denim, and a sense of authority in their blazers. They perfectly captured the essence of a nation known for its blend of formality and ease.
Designers Ralph Lauren, J. Lindeberg and Nike helped design this US outfit. The only thing missing is the lack of creative flare on this one — especially considering the kind of names and resources behind the design.
Grade: B+
6. Australia
Australia’s uniforms rocked green blazers with the names of all 301 Australian Olympic champions on the inside. The outfits were made by Sportscraft and featured Indigenous artwork for a touch of culture.
Athletes could choose between sporty tees, skirts, or shorts, mixing tradition with modern comfort.
Grade: A-
5. Jamaica
Puma designed these uniforms for Team Jamaica. Jamaica, Brazil, Australia, and South Africa all have similar colours, so they have to make sure their uniforms look different. Puma did a great job with these, no issues at all. Puma designed these, and they are perfect. No notes. If only Usain Bolt could rock these…
Grade: A-
4. Haiti
Haiti’s uniforms, ranked third by Forbes, were a work of art. Designed by Stella Jean and Philippe Dodard, the outfits featured indigo-dyed cotton and captivating paintings, telling the story of Haiti’s rich history.
The male athletes wore striped shirts and printed scarves, exuding pride and resilience.
Grade: B+
3. South Sudan
The uniforms from South Sudan, designed by the Rwandan fashion house Moshions, impressed everyone. The basketball team’s awesome custom-made outfits even got a thumbs-up from LeBron James. Their clean and sharp design made them stand out in style.
Bronze
2. Kenya
Team Kenya’s opening ceremony attire, designed by Kovu Couture, was vibrant and culturally rich. Reflecting Kenyan traditions and colours, the uniforms symbolized unity and pride, making a striking and memorable statement.
Silver
1. Mongolia
Mongolia stole the show with their traditional attire by Michel&Amazonka.
The uniforms had really detailed embroidery of national and Olympic symbols, like the Nine White Banners, sun, moon, and Gua-Maral. It took approximately 20 hours to make each outfit, and the final result was a stunning representation of culture and craftsmanship.
Gold
READ: Team Kenya: Paris 2024 Olympics Schedule for the Week
Sources (X, Bored Panda, Digg)
