2026 Winter Olympics: Fashion Highlights From the Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony of the Olympic Games is traditionally as much a display of national identity through fashion as it is a celebration of athletic competition, and the 2026 Winter Olympics were no exception. With athletes representing 92 countries participating, the parade of nations showcased a wide range of designs, from striking successes to less impactful choices.

A Nation’s Homage: Slovakia’s “Nepel Sweater”

Slovakia’s Olympic collection centered around honoring Ondrej Nepela, a celebrated athlete of the 20th century. A key element of the collection is the “Nepelov sveter,” a wool sports sweater with a V-shaped neckline and tricolor detailing, reminiscent of the sweaters frequently worn by the legendary figure skater during his career. Slovakian Olympians wore this sweater during the oath-taking ceremony with the president.

Further incorporating Nepela’s legacy, blue jackets, neck warmers, and hoodies feature diagrams and illustrations of the compulsory figure skating maneuvers in which he excelled. The design also includes a four-leaf clover, a symbol of good luck for the athletes. Hokejista Libor Hudáček commented in December, “We look like beautiful Slovak Smurfs.”

Retro Inspirations and Bold Choices: Czechia’s Collection

The Czech team also drew inspiration from the past, referencing the 1956 Winter Olympics, which were broadcast on television for the first time. Their collection includes a knitted sweater, though public reaction has been mixed. While the sweater features the Czech tricolor and prominent gold accents, some have criticized the dark shade of blue, which appears almost black, and suggest the design resembles that of Germany.

A particularly striking element of the Czech team’s attire is the pairing of shorts worn *over* leggings. This unconventional choice has divided opinion, with some welcoming the look while others deem it in poor taste. One commentator noted, “We are becoming a nation of socks with sandals.”

Did You Know? Haiti, with only two athletes participating in the games, presented a collection featuring hand-painted designs, including a depiction of a horse—a mythological symbol in the country.

Global Style: From Luxury Brands to Traditional Crafts

The United States team, as is tradition, is outfitted by Ralph Lauren, while Italy’s athletes wear Armani. These globally recognised brands are known for delivering stylish, elegant, and practical apparel. Great Britain’s collection prominently features the British flag.

Several nations embraced their cultural heritage in their designs. Mongolia’s collection showcased the traditional deel, a cashmere coat with a distinctive asymmetrical closure, and the malgai hat. Brazil’s team, outfitted by Moncler, featured jackets that transform into the Brazilian flag when unzipped, as demonstrated by skier Lucas Braathen during the opening ceremony.

Expert Insight: The emphasis on national identity through athletic apparel highlights the symbolic power of the Olympic Games, extending beyond athletic achievement to encompass cultural representation and national pride. The choices made by each nation reflect a desire to project a specific image on the world stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the central theme of Slovakia’s Olympic collection?

The central theme of Slovakia’s Olympic collection was a tribute to the figure skater Ondrej Nepela.

What was a controversial element of the Czech team’s uniform?

The pairing of shorts worn over leggings was a controversial element of the Czech team’s uniform, receiving both praise, and criticism.

Which brands are providing apparel for the American and Italian teams?

Ralph Lauren is providing apparel for the American team, and Armani is providing apparel for the Italian team.

As the games progress, it will be interesting to see if these design choices influence athlete performance or become lasting symbols of the 2026 Winter Olympics.