Mongolia’s Olympics uniforms praised, China’s panned

There’s been much buzz and excitement in fashion circles in the leadup to the Paris Summer 2024 Olympics, especially as team uniforms for the opening ceremony on July 26 have been revealed. The unveiling of different countries’ national uniforms saw an array of responses from netizens across Chinese social media. Notably, the Mongolian uniform was widely praised; while China’s own outfits were less well-received. Other countries’ including the US’ Ralph Lauren-designed saw a channeling of old money and prep, both big trends in China this year. As we have reported: In recent years, athletes are no longer just athletes, they are celebrities and influencers, as well as fashionistas and trendsetters. And this year’s Games demonstrates the strengthening collaborations between the worlds of sports and fashion more than ever. We take a look at China’s reactions to uniforms designed for the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. China China's male athletes will don a red suit jacket with white pants, while women will wear a red skirt, high heels, and a jacket for the opening ceremony on July 26, as well as the closing ceremony two weeks later. “I think Chinese dresses are pretty good-looking, dignified and elegant, a fusion of Chinese and Western styles,” posted @smallsweetpotato on Xiaohongshu. “Really?” another user retorted. While the red and white uniforms have received some praise, many have spoken out against the gendered approach Chinese officials have taken to this year’s uniforms. “Not only is it ugly, but the women are wearing a skirt and high heels,” wrote @fragranttaromud. “Seriously? Is this what you wear for a sports meeting?” “I don't have much to comment on the design, and it's not like other countries are necessarily not tacky, but are high heels really necessary?” wrote netizen @shiyaodnya “I think the solution is either male athletes have to wear skirts and high heels, or give female athletes the right to choose skirt or pants, and their own shoes. It's really too much to assume that women have to wear skirts and high heels.” “Sir, what would you like to order?” wrote another netizen @AAmoon, referencing the “waitress”-style looks of the Chinese uniforms for women. “I really am speechless,” replied a netizen called @momo. “Other countries showcase the beauty of their own culture, but we only have ugly and backwards looks.” Mongolia Going viral on social media are the 2024 Mongolian Olympian outfits, created by the three sisters behind the label Michel & Amazonka, combine aspects of the traditional Mongolian history with contemporary sportswear. The elaborate patterns and vivid colors used in the artwork are an expression of Mongolia's vast landscapes and nomadic past. “The ceremonial opening of the National Naadam Festival in Mongolia, marked by the raising of the Nine White Banners, draws parallels with the grand inauguration of the Olympic Games,” posted the designers, Michel, Amazonka and Munkhjargal Choigaalaa, on their Instagram. “The presence of a falcon on the flag of the formidable Mongolian army symbolizes notions of strength, agility, and triumph in conquest. These symbols and rituals encapsulate profound cultural heritage and aspirations, resonating with themes of resilience, conquest, and cultural identity across diverse ceremonial traditions.” “The embroidery featured on the uniforms really bring a sense of luxury,” wrote @Kid on Xiaohongshu. However, other Chinese netizens have claimed that the Mongolian uniforms are in Manchurian, and therefore Chinese in origin. “The clothing of the Manchu people in the Qing Dynasty of China! How did it become Mongolian clothing?” wrote @smallsweetpotato. “Because the Manchus are from Mongolia!” replied another netizen. Others remarked upon Mongolia’s elegant twist on history and tradition, citing: “Why can't we design this properly when there are so many ethnic groups and cultures in China? I really don't understand,” wrote user @uc. “How come Mongolian clothes are so beautiful? Isn't it shameful? Our clothes have no cultural background and no fashion taste. I am so angry.” posted another user @fenglinkeicy. Canada Lululemon's designs for Team Canada were influenced by the nation's emphasis on sustainability and its pristine natural surroundings. The uniform’s unique print honors Canada's diverse natural scenery, and offers interpretations of the landscape, art, and architecture from around the nation, including local flora. With special features like pull-on loops, sensory touch cues, and magnetic zippers, Canadian athleisure giant Lululemon stated the uniforms are “designed to support more bodies and more abilities,.” Some joked about team Canada’s leafy floral red designs, calling it “chaotic.” “The main theme of falling maple leaves? More like ‘weed style’,” joked @balconybalcony, referencing the country’s liberal stance on marijuana. Others stated: “Not bad, better than looking like a waiter,” touching upon team China’s “waiter”-style design once again. USA This year’s Team USA opening ceremony collection was created by American fashion icon Ralph Lauren. Incorporating a patriotic tribute to the iconic red, white, and blue of the United States while also citing "inspiration from the dynamic and vibrant host city" of Paris. The opening event will feature athletes clad in preppy blue wool blazers; while at closing, participants will don racecar-style white jackets. “I thought they were astronauts,” joked @girlscutepet, in reference to the white NASCAR-style closing ceremony uniforms. Others remarked upon the respect and gender equality of the collection. “They won by not forcing women athletes to wear tiny skirts and high heels,” wrote @sweetpotato64cdc4f. “It’s not aesthetically pleasing, but it looks comfortable and will make the wearer feel confident,” posted another netizen @Hiroki. Ultimately, unveiling of the Paris Summer 2024 Olympics team uniforms has highlighted the intersection of fashion, culture, and sports on a global stage. While Mongolia's uniforms received widespread acclaim for their cultural richness and contemporary flair, China's designs faced backlash from netizens for their "gendered approach." The contrasting reactions across social media bely evolving social norms, as well as the demand for greater inclusivity and cultural representation in China. As the Olympics draw near, national uniforms not only symbolize each country's pride but also reflect Chinese consumers shifting values towards diversity and gender equality in sports.

Mongolia’s Olympics uniforms praised, China’s panned

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Published July 24, 2024

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Mongolia’s Olympics uniforms praised, China’s panned