Fashion at the 2012 London Olympics
I rarely blog about fashion, but I’m finding it hard to ignore the shiny shiny at the 2012 London Olympics.
Let’s start at the beginning with the uniforms we first saw at the opening ceremony.
Ralph Lauren / Associated Press
Nothing says America more than preppy elitism by Ralph Lauren and “Made in China”. Some criticize the opening ceremony uniforms as too preppy, militaristic, not Americana at all, and, of course, made in China, but most American clothing manufacturing is outsourced and this is not an unfamiliar look. Just a visit a Macy’s near you. Or Nantucket. Or a cruise ship. I think the look is rather smart though I could do without the berets. I’m digging the scarf though.
Cameron Spencer / Getty Images
The Australian kit is similar to the American, but more relaxed. Theo thought the Australian team looks like they are wearing a school uniform. I can see that. I like the hunter green blazer and the white trousers look smart on the men, but the skirts on the women are too plain. The white canvas sneakers with green and gold details are very nice. Sportscraft supplies these Australian team uniforms.
On to the competition uniforms. Red, white, and blue is standard for Team USA. There isn’t anything special about the male gymnastics uniforms, but the women’s team has been looking pretty snazzy as has Team Oz in green and gold.
Gregory Bull / AP Photo
Image from Big Lead Sports.
Cameron Spencer / Getty Images Europe
Image by Pat Scala.
The rest of the uniforms are not as spectacular, but few Olympic events are as showy as the opening ceremony and the gymnastics.
Nike and TYR
Adidas
Most of Team USA’s kit is sleek and I especially like the women’s red track and field uniform from Nike. The kit varies widely whereas Team Australia’s kit is more consistent. It’s simpler in its look, but its design is meant to provide the lightest and fastest uniform ever worn by the Australian team.
If you’re wondering why Australia sports green and gold instead of its flag colors, it’s because green and gold are the national colors of Australia.
What do you think of this year’s Olympics kit? Any other countries that stand out?
