Team USA: sporting more than medals

Every two years, when the Olympics ignite in a city from across the globe, traditions celebrate the achievements of human athleticism. Whether it is the lighting of the Olympic Flame, medal ceremonies, or the opening and closing ceremonies, these traditions provide comfort to many and evoke pride in their nation. However, one tradition that stands out to many is the Parade of Nations, especially the athletes’ outfits.

The Parade of Nations, which occurs immediately after the opening ceremony, brings together all participating athletes organized by the nation they represent. A portion of the representation derives from the garments the athletes are sporting. Nations select renowned designers, often from their own countries, to outfit their athletes, such as Lululemon for Team Canada, Goyol for Team Mongolia, and Ben Sherman for Team Britain. Additionally, one team’s uniform, which always seems to find the spotlight and the podium, is Team USA’s, designed by Ralph Lauren.

Since the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, the designer, established in 1967, has created timeless and iconic uniforms. Junior Daliah Shin explained that she believes, “Ralph Lauren is a great designer to represent America due to their ability to create an effortless sophistication, while also being versatile enough for anyone to wear.” During the Summer Olympics, the team often wears a Blue blazer, touches of white and red, and gold embellishments (most notably seen at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics).

However, during the Winter Olympics, audiences see knitted pieces with undertones of a classic American winter. This year, athletes open the ceremony in a white-and-blue knitted sweater adorned with the Olympic rings, the American Flag, and an intarsia knit pattern (these designs are also reflected in the mittens and beanie). This is paired with a cream wool coat with wooden toggles and matching wool pants. Additionally, during the closing ceremony, athletes wear a color-blocked puffer, a blue-and-cream turtleneck, and white pants.

The designs are characterized by a twist on modern and classic American styles, especially reflecting vintage ski aesthetics with organic materials and soft tones, in harmony with the surrounding Milan-Cortina landscape. The pieces are designed 2 ½ years before the Olympics, reflecting the care for detail and the significance the uniforms bear. They must uphold traditional and contemporary American identity, connect with the host city, and be comfortable for athletes.  Junior Brooks Lawrence complemented them on their ability “to perfectly combine the cozy vibe of clothes that winter produces and the classic vision of American style.” Likewise, athletes are excited about the outfits for their timeless appeal, so much so that many said they will wear the pieces outside the games. Olympians Alex Shibutani (Ice Dancer), Maia Shibutani (Ice Dancer), and Redmond Gerard (Snowboarder) describe the uniforms in 3 words: “Heritage, Iconic, and Fresh.”

Not only do athletes get pieces from Ralph Lauren, but they also get a variety of other items for other segments of their time at the games. This includes a backpack, shoes, and a wide variety of casual and athletic Nike clothing. Additionally, Skims provided athletes with a Sherpa bag containing pajamas, undergarments, and clothing designed for comfort during their limited time on the ground. Not to mention they also received several other smaller gifts from numerous American businesses. Athletes have amassed numerous hauls of goods over the years, making it a biennial event that draws many fans eager to see the rewards for their dedication to representing the nation.

As we wait for the 2028 Summer Olympics in our own backyard, we are left wondering what the future holds for Olympians, especially when they must represent the host country. Lawrence, who is planning to attend an event, said he “can’t wait to see the summer uniforms in LA, hopefully in person!” Will Ralph Lauren continue their summer-blue blazer trend, or switch it up and embrace something new? Shin explained that she “hopes that we see something out of the norm for the next games, something that still continues Ralph Lauren’s trend of classic America, but also represents our changing culture!”