Milan, Italy – The 2026 Winter Olympics officially commenced today, , with the opening ceremony in Milan, showcasing not only athletic prowess but also a display of national pride through meticulously designed uniforms. Teams from around the globe paraded into San Siro Stadium, each outfit reflecting a unique cultural identity and design aesthetic. Among the most anticipated looks were those of Team USA and Team Canada, both outfitted by globally recognized fashion houses.
Team USA: A Legacy of Ralph Lauren Design
For the tenth consecutive Olympic Games, and nearly two decades Ralph Lauren’s Polo has been entrusted with dressing Team USA. The opening ceremony uniform, as unveiled ahead of the games, features a winter-white wool coat with wooden toggles, paired with wool trousers and an iconic American flag intarsia wool sweater. Completing the ensemble are a red, white, and blue knit hat and mittens, a leather belt, and suede alpine boots with red laces. David Lauren, chief branding and innovation officer of the Ralph Lauren Corporation, described the honor of outfitting the American athletes as one that “never fades.”
The design philosophy, according to Lauren, centers on creating dreams and telling stories through style. He emphasized the desire to honor Milan’s creative spirit while maintaining the enduring style synonymous with the Ralph Lauren brand. Notably, each item in the uniform is manufactured within the United States.
Canada’s Innovative Approach with Lululemon
Team Canada entered the stadium clad in designs from Lululemon, marking the third consecutive Games the Vancouver-based athletic apparel company has served as the official outfitter. This year’s uniforms represent a deeper focus on innovation and inclusion, according to Lululemon CEO Calvin McDonald, who described the kit as “technically superior.”
The Canadian uniforms incorporate maple leaf designs and a topographic map print, with a color palette ranging from deep red to “iceberg-inspired” greens and blues. McDonald stated that the designs were created “with athletes, and for athletes,” underscoring the company’s commitment to performance and functionality.
Mexico’s Symbolism and Cultural Representation
Team Mexico’s uniforms, designed by Charly, were presented as a symbol of hard work, passion, and Olympic commitment. The Mexican Olympic Committee also highlighted the significance of President Claudia Sheinbaum leading the flag ceremony for the country’s delegation, a first for a Mexican president at the Winter Games.
Great Britain’s Heritage and Collaboration
Ben Sherman designed Team Great Britain’s uniforms for the fourth consecutive Olympic Games. This year’s collection features a collaboration with five-time Olympic medallist Tom Daley, who contributed hand-knit scarves and hats for the flagbearers during both the opening and closing ceremonies. The designs draw inspiration from the Dolomite Mountains and incorporate heritage checks and Fair Isle knitwear.
The opening ceremony outfit includes a wool dogtooth topcoat, a mock-neck sweater with repeating Union Flag motifs, and sweat joggers, alongside the Daley-designed accessories and Vibram-soled winter boots.
Italy’s Homage to Fashion and Legacy
As the host nation, Italy’s team uniforms, designed by EA7 Emporio Armani, carry particular significance. The partnership between Armani and the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) and Italian Paralympic Committee (CIP) began at the London Games in 2012. The late Giorgio Armani, who died in September, revealed the uniforms in May, expressing his pleasure in working alongside Italian athletes and honoring the city of Milan.
The ensembles feature a down jacket, thermal ski jacket and trousers in milky white, and an oversized bomber jacket with an “Italia” print, among other items and accessories.
Mongolia’s Cultural Heritage on Display
Team Mongolia’s ceremonial outfits, designed by Goyol Cashmere, aim to showcase the nation’s resilience, wisdom, and warrior spirit. The designs are inspired by attire from the Great Mongol Empire of the 13th-15th centuries and are crafted from the finest Mongolian cashmere, finished with silk trim and embroidered with traditional horn motifs.
Goyol and the Mongolian National Olympic Committee described the uniforms as a blend of traditional history and culture with Western alpine ski sweater influences, enriched with motifs of the Mongolian ger and nomadic life.
The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, running through , will feature 116 medal events, including the debut of ski mountaineering. The Paralympic Games will follow from to . Beyond the athletic competitions, the opening ceremony served as a powerful demonstration of national identity and the intersection of sport and fashion on the global stage.
