Olympic rivalry extends to closing-ceremony outfits
The launch, 100 days before the start of the rescheduled Tokyo 2020 Olympics, of Team USA outfits designed by Ralph Lauren has brought back into the spotlight a very different outfit that near neighbours Team Canada will wear at the closing ceremony.
Last year’s summer Olympics were postponed because of covid-19 and rearranged for this summer. With restrictions still in place in many countries because of the pandemic, even these rescheduled games may not go ahead.
If the action does go ahead on the track, in the field, in the pool and at other Olympic venues, it is the rivalries among competitors there that really matter, but clothes can make headlines too. Ironically, Team Canada’s closing ceremony outfit, designed by official fashion partner, Hudson’s Bay, has created more news now than when it launched in August 2020.
In stark contrast to Team USA’s graphic white drawstring jackets made from recycled polyester, Canada’s athletes will attend the closing ceremony wearing denim jackets from Levi’s. The jackets are decorated with spray-paint style motifs, including the Canadian flag and a range of graffiti.
This is intended as a tribute to host city Tokyo’s reputation as a fashion-forward hub.
