Designer Fashion from the 2024 Olympics Opening Weekend
One thing is for sure…Paris has been the most stylist Olympics to date. Here are some of the designer looks I spotted (and fun facts I’ve gathered) from the Opening Ceremony.
RALPH LAUREN
In fashion, there is not a bigger American designer than Ralph Lauren. From clothes to bedding and fine china, if his designs are not in your closet, there’s a big chance they’re somewhere else in your home. Since 2008, Ralph Lauren has also been responsible for designing the Olympics Opening Ceremony looks for Team U.S.A. And this Games’ uniforms were classic Ralph Lauren - well-tailored, a nice contrast of solids and prints, and included high-quality denim.
Shirts tucked in, out or tied in front, crossbody or shoulder bag, sleeves rolled up or down, stylists used every opportunity to showcase athlete’s individual style. LeBron James and Coco Gauff as the U.S. flag bearers stood out in white sports coats. A’ja Wilson, Sha'carri Richardson and Miles Robinson opted for fun eyewear. Though the stripes on Emma Chamberlain’s jacket feel like a nod to Thom Browne. Yet, she and Nina Dobrev looked chic.
THOM BROWNE
Ralph Lauren’s contract to design for Team USA ends after the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. And I’d love to see Thom Browne get the contract for the next 20 years. After all, he’s a beloved American fashion designer who has gained a lot of momentum lately pushing his brand beyond its “if you know, you know” persona. Keeping its exclusivity, you can buy certain pieces at high-end retailers. And then there are pieces only available through press to A listers like Queen Latifah, Ben Simmons, Russell Westbrook and Janet Jackson. Thom’s latest show was even a mood board of sports and haute couture.
When I think of Paris as the fashion capitol of the world, and the place where the United States of America won the famous runway Battle of Versailles, making it a staple in couture fashion, it’s easy to see why so many celebrities chose to wear Thom Browne for the Opening Ceremony. Beyonce introducing the home team in the epic red, white and blue cape, Gold medalist Lindsey Voon white the iconic Hector dog bag, Ariana Grande in Glinda the Good Witch pink and Cynthia Erivo in Wicked green.…these moments made history.
To learn more about this brand, listen to my chat with Tianni Janae, Lead Fashion Archivist at Thom Browne on the Costumes & Coffee podcast.
DIOR
Speaking of the Battle of Versailles, French fashion design house Christian Dior was in the competition in 1973 and still remains one of the top houses today. Many celebrity stylists chose to pay homage to him including Law Roach for Celine Dion who dazzled as she sang from the second floor of the Eiffel Tower in a hand-beaded fringe gown that took seamstress more than 1,000 to make. Maria Grazia Chiuri created a stunning performance costume for Lady Gaga including looks inspired by Audrey Hepburn in the 1954 hit film Sabrina for Gaga’s 10 dancers. Axelle Saint-Cirel shined in a Dior Couture gown (also by Maria Grazia Chiuri) unfurling the colors of France and French pop star La Nakamurance danced in shimmering gold Dior digs.
Fun fact, Costume Designer Emma Potter’s work in A New Look, the drama series about Dior’s life, is nominated for an Emmy this year.
LOUIS VUITTON
Aside from all of the Louis Vuitton looks at the bran'd’s Foundation “Prelude to the Olympics” art party, Anna Wintour arrived at the Opening ceremony wearing a full length blue and white striped dress by the high-end designer. And in true Head Designer fashion Pharrell Williams was well dressed (and branded) the entire weekend. There were even Louis Vuitton trunks on the course as the torch was being passed. Major nod to Stylist Jason Bolden for yet another impeccable green moment for Cynthia Erivo.
