Culture paired with style: With Paris Olympics yet to kick off, Mongolia makes a mark with their uniforms

Mongolia’s stylish and culturally rich uniforms for the 2024 Paris Olympics has set the internet abuzz.

Designed by Ulaanbaatar-based fashion label Michel & Amazonka, the outfits feature intricate embroidery, traditional Mongolian motifs, including the “Soyombo” symbol from the country’s flag, and and the country’s national colours of blue, red, and gold. Additionally, motifs associated with Paris and the Games, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Olympic flame, are featured.

The uniforms include embroidered vests and pleated robes showing a blend of modern aesthetics and traditional Mongolian elements, which has captivated audiences worldwide. Representations of the sun, moon, and mythical creatures like the “Gua-Maral” (beautiful doe) are embroidered in gold thread, showcasing the country’s rich cultural identity.

The label unveiled its designs through a series of glossy photos and a video shoot reminiscent of a luxury fashion campaign. Female athletes’ outfits are complemented by ceremonial earrings and embroidered bags, while male flag-bearers will don archery hats, belts, and traditional Mongolian boots. Each outfit takes an average of 20 hours to complete, with measurements tailored for each athlete.

 

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One of the female models showcased Team Mongolia’s female flag bearer’s uniform, which includes a robe dress known as a deel, traditionally worn by Mongolians. This ensemble is complemented by an embroidered vest, a handbag resembling India’s potli bags, heels, and earrings. Another female model displayed the female athletes’ uniform, which consists of a similar embroidered vest, a pleated skirt, a blouse, a handbag, and earrings.

 

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For the male flag bearers, the uniform features a thin cotton Mongolian robe adorned with auspicious embroidery, paired with an embroidered vest, traditional Mongolian boots, and an embellished belt. The male athletes’ uniform includes pants, a Mandarin collar shirt, an embroidered vest, and sneakers.

 

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The designs incorporate the national colours of blue, red, and white, as well as various traditional patterns and motifs, including the “Soyombo” symbol from the country’s flag. Additionally, motifs associated with Paris and the Games, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Olympic flame, are featured.

Social media influencers and Olympians alike have hailed the designs as the most beautiful and stylish of the 2024 Games. As per a report by CNN, style writer and TikToker Ryan Yip went as far as saying “They just won the Olympics before it even started,” while former athlete Michael Johnson praised the uniforms on social media.

Netizens have compared Mongolia’s outfits favorably to the offerings of major fashion brands, with one user stating “This is what they need at Versace, LV (Louis Vuitton) or other big brands.” Others have suggested Mongolia should be awarded the gold medal for best uniform “right now.”

While some have criticised the outfits as potentially impractical in the summer heat of Paris, the overwhelming sentiment is one of admiration and excitement.

With the opening ceremony set for July 26, Mongolia’s uniform designs have undoubtedly set a new standard for Olympic fashion, leaving other nations with a high bar to clear.

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