Showcasing intricately embroidered vests, pleated robes, and accessories inspired by traditional Mongolian attire, the country’s opening and closing ceremony outfits have quickly gone viral on social media since their unveiling earlier this month. These striking designs are the creation of Michel & Amazonka, an Ulaanbaatar-based label known for crafting couture and ready-to-wear garments that “express the essence of Mongolian tradition and culture” through a modern lens.
Mongolia’s 2024 Olympic Uniform
The label unveiled its designs through a series of polished photos and a video shoot that evoke the feel of a luxury fashion campaign. Female athletes will don ceremonial earrings and embroidered bags, while male flag-bearers will sport archery hats, belts, and traditional Mongolian boots. The designs incorporate the national colors—blue, red, and white—alongside traditional patterns and motifs, including the “Soyombo” symbol found on the country’s flag.
The designers’ inspiration comes from the Naadam Festival, which is a major event in Mongolia every July where people dress up for the opening ceremony. Similar vibrant designs are common throughout Mongolia, but for the Olympics, Michel & Amazonka opted for a more subdued approach. The design remains traditional but incorporates finer embroidery, making it slightly more elegant.
Mongolia’s 2024 Olympic Uniform
As for the neutral color palette, they aimed to align with Paris, the fashion capital, and considered the city’s warmer climate. They chose lighter colors such as white and gray, which are better suited for Paris’s summer heat. Darker shades would be less appropriate for the season. Additionally, the Paris 2024 Olympics torch, which features neutral tones of gold and silver, also served as inspiration for their color choices.
Mongolia’s 2024 Olympic Uniform
The uniform features a range of accessories, including pouch bags, sash belts, dangling earrings, pointed Buryat hats, and gutal boots. These elements were essential because the Mongolian National Olympic Committee emphasized the importance of a complete look. The accessories, including hats, comfortable shoes, and bags for women to carry their essentials, needed to complement the overall outfit.
Creating each uniform was a meticulous process. The first stage involved sourcing fabrics, gathering accessories, and preparing embroidery. The sewing stage took about 20 hours per uniform. In total, we produced 120 sets—70 for men and 50 for women, covering both the Olympics and Paralympics. Efficient project management was crucial, with the entire process spanning three months.
Mongolia’s 2024 Olympic Uniform
In conclusion, the 2024 Mongolian Olympic uniform epitomizes a refined blend of cultural tradition and contemporary design. With its meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful incorporation of traditional elements, it not only honors Mongolia’s rich heritage but also meets the practical needs of modern athletes. This uniform stands as a testament to both the enduring legacy of Mongolian culture and the innovative spirit of contemporary fashion, ensuring that Mongolia’s presence at the Games is both striking and meaningful.