Paris 2024 Olympics: Fashion and Sport unite in the athletes' outfits for the Opening Ceremony

The delegations gradually revealed the outfits their athletes wore during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, which took place on the Seine on Friday, July 26, 2024. This landmark event was the stage for numerous style revelations, where fashion and sports seamlessly converged.

As the Games approached, the countdown had officially begun, and various delegations successively unveiled their athletes' outfits for the event. Often signed by renowned houses closely associated with each nation, these outfits captured everyone's attention.

For France, it was Berluti, the prestigious LVMH brand, that was chosen. The house designed a uniform set featuring a tuxedo, shirt, belt, scarf, pocket square, and shoes, all in the colors of the French flag. The suits, created in collaboration with Carine Roitfeld, showcased midnight blue wool with a blue, white, and red patinated collar, specially created for the occasion.

The Italians once again placed their trust in the great Giorgio Armani. The athletes’ wardrobe, unveiled during the Spring-Summer 2024 show at Milan Men's Fashion Week in June 2023, focused on the simplicity of a dark blue wardrobe adorned with the Italian flag.

The United States teamed up with Ralph Lauren for this exceptional ceremony. The brand designed a collection made from innovative materials that reflected its commitment to sustainability and performance. This collection also symbolized American values of elegance, quality, and optimism.

Meanwhile, Great Britain chose Ben Sherman, an iconic ready-to-wear brand. Their athletes wore white and black polos featuring the "GB" logo surrounded by the colorful symbols of the four British nations. Lightweight Teddy jackets in the colors of the British flag completed the look.

Nigeria, represented by the brand Actively Black, made a statement with outfits made from Funtua cotton, a fabric produced in the Nigerian state of the same name. The male athletes wore long jackets over slim sweatpants, while the female athletes sported Buba dresses, all accessorized with traditional headwear.

Ireland entrusted designer Laura Weber and her label LW Pearl, while Portugal renewed its collaboration with Decenio. Canada, dressed in a red uniform by Lululemon, and Switzerland, outfitted by the Zurich-based brand On in partnership with Ochsner Sport and Zendaya, also stood out during the ceremony. Jamaica, with Puma, and the Netherlands, with The New Originals for the breaking team uniforms, added unique touches to the event. Finally, Mongolia, in collaboration with Michel & Amazonka, presented uniforms embroidered with national and Olympic symbols.

Some countries from other continents turned to French expertise. Namibia, for instance, entrusted Yves Salomon with creating its official outfits, using the famous Swakara Astrakhan lamb for capes inspired by the dunes of the Namibian desert.