Tokyo 2020 May Be The Year’s Biggest Global Runway, & Designers Are Taking Note
Image via Czech Olympic Committee
Happening only once every four years (pre-COVID, at least) with millions tuning in from all over the world, it’s no wonder that fashion designers view the Olympics as an opportunity to showcase. Even though the Tokyo 2020 games have been dampened by pandemic-related happenings, this year isn’t so different in the realm of uniforms and fashion.
Sportwear meets fashion in a myriad of forms, creating a colorful explosion of vibrant uniforms. Notable mentions include New York’s Telfar Clemens, whose parents are Liberian, who has designed the Liberian team’s uniforms. Ralph Lauren championed the American uniforms’ preppy look, and Labrum’s cool blue sweatsuits are donned by Sierra Leone at the Opening Ceremony.
The Czech team boasts touches of couture in their textiles, tailored for each athlete with intricate Modrotisk detailing designed by Zuzana Osako. Translated literally as “blueprint,” the technique involves printing a dye-resistant paste onto cloth before swathing it with a brilliant indigo dye. To apply the paste, hand-crafted blocks with regional designs or inspirations are pressed onto the fabric. The blocks can be up to 300 years old, and this practice is recognized by UNESCO in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Image via Czech Olympic Committee
Image via Czech Olympic Committee
Modrotisk originated as a concept in Japan, Forbes reports. However, adapted and honed by Danube artisans, it has become an integral part of the art and textile culture in places like Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, and Slovakia. Given its cultural background, it’s the perfect choice for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Image via Czech Olympic Committee
Image via Czech Olympic Committee
A tady jsme MY! ❤️ 🇨🇿 Český olympijský tým s vlajkonoši @Petra_Kvitova a @satoransky. Zdravíme celý svět 👋 #OpeningCeremony #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/VyAxyr4S8y
— Český olympijský tým (@olympijskytym) July 23, 2021
[via Vogue Australia, image via Czech Olympic Team]
Also check out these recent news
