When it comes to cultural expression in the Olympics, the Internet is in agreement: Mongolian team uniforms at the Paris Olympics deserve a gold medal.
Since Mongolian haute couture brand Michel & Amazonka unveiled the uniforms on Instagram earlier this month, Instagram and TikTok users have been praising the perfect blend of culture and style.
According to Mongolia's state-run news agency Monsame, the team will wear the topical uniforms at the Olympic opening ceremony, which are embroidered with symbols related to the nation. In addition to the Olympic flame and the Paris Olympics emblem, the uniforms feature symbols of Mongolian tradition, including the sun, moon and Gua-Maral, a legendary deer from Mongolian folklore.
“Wow people really ate this,” one user wrote in the comments section of the public post.
“A wonderful mix of Mongolian and Hellenistic influences,” added another. “Amazing.”
“All their clothes are so elegant. They have such beautiful detail.”
A post about the uniform shared by user Regularguy_sports sparked an enthusiastic response from users.
“Mongolia is undisputedly the best.”
“Mongolia is on a whole other level of fascinating.”
A Facebook post from Michelle & Amazonca explained how the brand took detailed measurements of each player to create the custom uniforms, which were made in six stages over a three-month period, with each uniform taking an average of 20 hours to make.
According to NBC News, Michelle Choigara and Amazonica Choigara are sisters and designers of Michelle & Amazonica. Together, they designed Mongolia's opening and closing ceremony uniforms for the past two Olympic Games.
2024 Summer Olympics Olympic uniforms popular on social media
Mongolia isn't the only team garnering attention on Instagram and TikTok for its clever uniforms.
Haiti Team
Team Haiti's vibrant designs have also caught the attention of users on Instagram and TikTok. Designed by Italian-Haitian designer Stella Jean, the uniforms incorporate elements of Haiti's cultural heritage.
Jiang shared an image of the uniform on Instagram, highlighting the designer's decision to create the uniform inspired by traditional Haitian dress, with its vibrant blue color and a mix of Haiti's African and indigenous influences.
“Wow. So high fashion,” one TikTok user commented on a post about the uniforms.
“Are they going to a fashion show or something?” replied another. “How beautiful.”
Jamaica Team
In March, German sportswear brand Puma unveiled the uniforms for the Jamaica Olympic Association, showcasing the brand's focus on incorporating the colors of the Jamaican flag and highlighting the size and speed of its athletes.
Across TikTok, users praised the uniform's sleekness and vibrant colors.