• by Tanya Gazdik , June 18, 2024

Ralph Lauren “tells a story about America” in a "quintessential take on Americana and preppy athleisure” for its Team USA uniforms for the Olympics and Paralympics Games.

For a sixteenth year in a row, the designer has created uniforms for athletes to wear at opening and closing ceremonies in Paris as well as a broader capsule wardrobe for their use during and after the Games. 

“The new collection 'draws inspiration from the dynamic and vibrant host city,’ a statement from the brand reads, ‘and embraces a patriotic spirit reflected in a signature palette of red, white and blue,’” according to CNN Busness. 

The brand worked very closely with the athletes and the Olympics, says David Lauren, Ralph Lauren’s chief branding and innovation officer.

“Ralph Lauren emphasized sustainability for the parade uniforms, which are made from recycled polyester and U.S.A.-grown Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) certified wool,” according to People. “The athletes are also supplied with Olympic and Paralympic Village looks — including Ralph Lauren's first-ever 100% recycled cotton polo shirt and the brand's classic American flag sweater.”

At the opening ceremony, Team USA athletes will wear a classic navy Ralph Lauren blazer with red and white detailing, paired with a striped Oxford shirt, navy knit tie and tapered light denim jeans. At the closing ceremony, athletes will wear sporty racecar-driver-style jackets. 

“To account for the heat, the company constantly looks at different fabrics and layering systems to keep the athlete’s body temperature in check,” according to USA Today. “All items in both the opening and closing ceremony outfits are manufactured in the United States.”

The gear is available at Ralph Lauren stores, RalphLauren.com, TeamUSA.com and other select stores in the U.S. and France.

“Some proceeds of retail sales go to help support U.S. athletes training for their Olympic moments,” according to The Associated Press. “Lauren wouldn’t be more specific on how much money the company sends their way.”