Team USA’s Golden Sense of Style
Team USA is no stranger to style. From their winter hats all the way down to their snow boots, American athletes never miss a chance to make a fashion statement while competing at the Winter Olympic Games.
The 2022 Beijing Games are no exception. Beginning on February 4, Team USA wasted no time displaying their American colors, while competing in sports like figure skating, snowboarding, and skiing. The athletes have been sporting American designers Ralph Lauren and Kim Kardashian this year. Needless to say, Team USA looks especially patriotic and of course, fashionable.
Source: People
At previous Winter Olympics’, Team USA has had its fair share of memorable fashion moments. From the opening ceremonies to the closing remarks, and all of the competitions in between, American athletes have always expressed themselves and their patriotism, through their red, white, and blue uniforms.
Let’s check out some fashion highlights from previous Winter Olympics.
While competing as a figure skater at the 1998 and 2002 Olympic Games, Michelle Kwan was praised for her elegant dress collection designed by Vera Wang. Years later, in 2013, Wang went on to design Kwan’s wedding gown.
Source: E! Online
Michelle Kwan competing in Vera Wang.
In 2010, Burton dressed the U.S. Men's Snowboarding Team in “denim” snow pants, paired with red, white, and blue plaid coats. This was highly recognized, as it was a mix of classic American style and Olympic outerwear.
Source: E! Online
Shaun White and Scott Lago wearing Burton at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
Adam Rippon sparkled throughout the 2018 Winter Games held in South Korea. His loud and outrageous pieces designed by Braden Overett included thousands of sequins, sparkles, and feathers.
Source: Vogue
Adam Rippon competing in Braden Overett.
Since 2008, the very talented and all-American Ralph Lauren has been the official outfitter for Team USA. While designing for the 2022 Winter Games, Lauren partnered with the textile company, Skyscrape, to create high-technology pieces.
Ralph Lauren’s 2022 pieces are made from “Intelligent Insulation.” The extremely innovative fabric automatically adapts to air temperatures by either expanding or compressing. The uniforms, which consist of mid-layer jackets, pants, winter boots, and gloves, were ultimately designed to keep Team USA warm and comfortable while in Beijing.
Source: Ralph Lauren
Shaun White for Ralph Lauren’s 2022 Olympic Collection.
Skims by Kim Kardashian also debuted a Team USA collection to especially honor the female athletes competing in Beijing. Chloe Kim, Oksana Masters, Madison Chock, Aja Evans, and Maame Biney, all American Olympians, modeled for the campaign. The collection of loungewear and sleepwear includes an array of items, some of which include bralettes, joggers, socks, and a knit robe.
Source: Skims
Olympic snowboarder Chloe Kim for Skims.
Looking back on past Winter Olympic Games, the fashion is very representative of the times in which they were debuted by American athletes. Different designers have made athletes look and feel their best while competing on an international stage.
While the styles and faces of the American uniform have changed, the true spirit and patriotism of the American athlete have remained strong. The red, white, and blue that are displayed by our symbolic Olympic fashion truly represent Team USA and our dedication and desire to always look our very best on the world stage.
What is your favorite fashion moment from the Winter Olympics? Leave a comment below.