The looks of the 2026 Olympics
By Eloryn Fall
Photographed I Courtney Cumming I Marist University Student
It’s Feb. 6, 2026, and the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony has begun. Each nation patiently awaits their turn to boast unique uniforms, representing the colors and spirit of their homelands. Not only by the way of presentation, but in the dress that they wear. These teams come to win, and it’s the designers’ jobs to dress them for such an occasion. This moment isn’t only for the athletes, but for the world, and the uniforms are expertly crafted to reflect that.
As with every Olympics opening ceremony, this is an exciting display for the fashion industry. Talented designers and well-known brands showcase their skills in the outfitting of their Olympic teams—sewing in appreciation for the countries they represent. Each design carefully considers the teams' history, so as to perfectly execute an image that will stick with viewers well into the week.
Among the designs seen at this year’s Winter Olympics ceremony, there was a handful of uniforms that simply stole the show. The creative silhouettes and unique design choices sparked much commentary online; both praise and criticism. Marist fashion student Courtney Cummings was there to capture the magic in Milan – here are the most memorable moments.
Brazil
Starting off strong, Brazil proudly marched out donning uniforms crafted by the one and only Moncler. Done in collaboration with Brazilian artist and activist, Oskar Metsavaht, the uniforms showcase truly unique visuals. Among them is the eye-catching decision to opt for snow shorts instead of pants—complete with a long skirt on the flag-bearer. Standing proud in white among a sea of navy blue, the flag bearer opened her jacket to reveal the Brazilian flag adorning the inside. This creates a fascinating visual representation of the difference between the white slopes of the Winter Olympics and Brazil's colorful tropical culture.
Team Brazil’s Olympic opening ceremony uniforms by Moncler. Image Credit I Moncler Press Office
Mongolia
The Mongolian uniforms truly outdid themselves this year. Following the widely successful ensembles at the Paris Olympics in 2024—the bar was set high. Donning designs crafted by Goyol Cashmere, these uniforms captured the styles of historic Mongol empires. The uniforms sport a navy, white and pink color scheme with some light gold accenting. Every aspect of the designs, from the slits to raised collars, serve a specific functional purpose that have their roots in traditional Mongolian garb. This follows all the way up to the pointed hat with a thick fur trim, bringing the whole historically inspired design together. As the 2026 winter athletes walked, it was no question that these too would go down in history.
Team Mongolia Olympic designs by Goyol Cashmere. Image credit I GOYOL CASHMERE LLC
The next memorable moment came when Canada walked out in uniforms by Lululemon. Despite having dressed team Canada in the past, the 2026 uniforms sparked some significant debate online. The design features a deep shade of maroon juxtaposed against a bright red maple leaf. The color isn’t what’s causing the outrage though; it’s the fit. The main piece of the garment, adorned with the large maple leaf, is actually multi-purpose. Worn as a vest in the opening ceremony, Lululemon showcases on their website that these pieces can be clipped and buckled in many ways. Love it or hate it, the maple leaf on the front screams Canadian pride.
Haiti
The world cheered as two Haiti athletes walked out in Stella Jean at this year's opening ceremony. Since sending their first winter athlete in 2022, it felt important to make a statement with this year’s designs. Adorned in bright colors and a hand-painted illustration, these uniforms tell the story of a resilient nation and ensure the athletes stand out amongst the white slopes. Stella Jean’s visuals quickly became one of the most talked about moments from the ceremony. If anyone succeeded in dressing their athletes for success, it was her.
Team Hatiti Athletes designs by Stella Jean. Image Credit I Stella Jean
Closing off the ceremony at third to last, the United States walked out sporting Ralph Lauren. This comes as yet another installment in a long history of Ralph Lauren working with Team USA. The base of the uniform is a red, white and blue sweater made from Shaniko wool—a company proudly based in Oregon. These are tucked into white twill trousers which match the statement long twill coats. Little touches of brown in both the belt and boots further showcase the attention to detail Ralph Lauren is known for. These effortlessly classy uniforms made their mark on the world as Team USA proudly marched out in this year's Winter Olympics.
