Sartorial splendour in Paris: top 10 stylish Olympic uniforms to watch out for

Here are 10 of the most stylish looks to keep an eye out for over the next three weeks.

Haiti

Haiti’s kaleidoscopic uniforms play on more than just the rainbow.

Amid immense political turmoil in Haiti, Haitian-Italian designer Stella Jean sought to highlight the country’s historical significance and cultural wealth.

Haitian luminary Philippe Dodard’s paintings grace the women’s skirts, which are paired with a light blue chambray shirt and a sleeveless blazer.

Dodard’s artistry is also showcased on the men’s uniform, appearing on the trousers that are paired with a field jacket worn atop a striped shirt and accessorised scarf.

Canada

Fittingly, Vancouver-born Lululemon will provide Team Canada’s collection in Paris.

In an intersection of innovation, appeal and practicality, Lululemon worked with 19 athletes to design a garment that addresses all potential needs of the country’s Olympians.

The adaptive fit addresses comfort through four-way stretch fabrics, discreet and accessible pockets, as well as SenseKnit technology and sweat-wicking fibres to keep athletes cool in Paris.

The Canadians will trick out in red bomber jackets, red shorts and trousers over red short-sleeved shirts, creating a contemporary ensemble. Subtle yet powerful prints on the tracksuit offer a playful tribute to Canada’s history and biodiversity.

Czech Republic

This one could be the most controversial of them all – tagged either “startling” or “flattering”.

But its unique and eye-catching nature makes it among the most stylish in Paris. The splashes of colour evoke thoughts of celebrated Czech artist Vladimir Boudnik, who was born in 1924, the last time the Games were held in the French capital.

Czech Olympic Committee president Jiri Kejval wanted a look that demands attention and resonates deeply with the country’s younger generation, and he got just that.

The collection’s most prominent feature, a coat that combines the Czech raincoat and the French trench coat, makes for a genderless look that adheres to all body types.

Philippines

Ahead of Team Philippines’ parade through Paris, local designer Francis Libiran desired a look that commanded attention amid a fleet of boats.

Made from pina-jusi fabric, the attire boasts a detachable silk organdie sling adorned with embroidered sun rays and warrior designs across the chest area.

Libiran skilfully blended elements of national pride and bravery in the look, creating what he described as a representation of every facet of Filipino identity.

Mongolia

One stand-out costume set social media ablaze this past week.

In a craft that will undeniably etch itself in Olympic annals, Michel&Amazonka composed Team Mongolia’s exquisite loose-fitted robes, vests and cone-shaped hats.

The designers, who are also sisters, managed a fusion of both Olympic and national trademarks in the gold-embroidered design to cast up an awe-inspiring look.

Michel&Amazonka, Mongolia’s most progressive fashion brand, embraced its reputation. The couture was inspired by the deel, a traditional Mongolian garment acclaimed for its belted, collared kaftan.

It may be just eight days till fashion critics grant Mongolia the Games’ first gold.

South Korea

South Korea may tout the most sophisticated look, with Musinsa Standard revamping a power blue suit to a retro-inspired youthful ensemble.

The cool and fashionable fabric lining the coat could mitigate its unsuitability for summer heat.

Blue and white, traditional Korean colours often seen in porcelain, decorates the outfit, with a belt on the blazer paying homage to 1980s and 1990s aesthetics currently in vogue.

Netherlands

The Dutch will don suits designed by The New Originals, reflecting the essence of the Amsterdam brand.

Breaking, a debut sport in the Games, will showcase three members of the Netherlands dance team, all of whom will be clad in performance attire from the onset of the Games.

Sporting a 1980s-style tracksuit that merges on the hues of the nation’s flag and the vibrant, signature orange of the national football team, the Netherlands dance team will wear what looks to be a futuristic suit.

United States

Ralph Lauren designed its ninth-straight design for Team USA, and once again, it hit the mark.

In an amalgamation of formal and casual, the Americans will sport a navy blazer on top and classic blue jeans on the bottom.

The fusion is a staple of the country’s fashion, where Americans often opt for smart-casual and practical wear.

Ralph Lauren’s navy blue jackets are accented with red and white stripes along the edges and cuffs, while the trousers, tie, shoes and belt proudly showcase the “Team USA” branding throughout.

Spain

In what is billed the “greenest-ever” Games, Spain’s uniforms are made from high-performance fabrics that include recycled polyester and organic cotton.

Joma, chosen to provide Spain’s Olympic apparel in 2015, drew design inspiration from the carnation, the country’s national flower.

Red and yellow dominate the costume, a nod to the nation’s flag. Joma integrated technical fabrics to maximise comfort and freedom of movement all while showing deference to the athletes’ homeland.

France

Expectations ran high for the host nation’s outfits, and Parisians seem to be savouring the product.

Unveiled at Paris Fashion Week, designer and streetwear legend Stephane Ashpool said he had adopted a “chic, elegant and bright” approach.

What emerged was arguably the most adaptable attire of any nation. Ashpool’s 150,000 pieces of fabric are catered to every body type and fashion preference.

Tabbed the “waviest uniforms” of the Games, Team France’s costumes will be embellished by a luminous ecru shade and a gradient line composed of the country’s national colours.