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Brazil’s pleated, tropical-patterned dresses, structured blazers, and fedoras took the gold for one of the most fashionable team uniforms.
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The female Olympians from Saudi Arabia were all smiles in emerald green, embroidered kaftans courtesy of Art of Heritage.
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Cameroon’s colorful, embroidered ensembles were one of the most aesthetically appealing uniforms of the night.
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The Italians kept it sleek and minimal in black, form-fitting tracksuits signed Emporio Armani.
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Led by gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps, team USA sailed into the stadium in nautical uniforms complete with tricolored boat shoes by Ralph Lauren.
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Stella McCartney dressed Great Britain’s female competitors in white utilitarian jackets, navy blue miniskirts, and red sneakers for a pop of color.
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The women on the Haitian team looked fashion forward in ruffled, off-the-shoulder dresses.
Cook Islands’ floral crowns and green, tribal print dresses were a style hit.
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Tonga went for a less is more approach to ultimately steal the show.
On Friday, the 2016 Olympic Games kicked off in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with a visually stimulating opening ceremony. The Maracanã Stadium flourished with a high energy celebration that paid tribute to the host country’s vibrant spirit and colonial history—while emphasizing the importance of preserving the environment.
Amid the stunning fireworks and electric samba performances was Gisele Bündchen’s dramatic strut across the arena. The model donned a shimmering gold column gown by Brazilian designer Alexandre Herchcovitch for her anticipated appearance. Elsewhere, vivid colors and bold prints reigned at the parade of athletes. Designers including Giorgio Armani, Stella McCartney, and Ralph Lauren delivered a touch of luxe to the Italian, British, and American teams respectively. Meanwhile, Art of Heritage dressed the Saudi team in beautiful, embroidered kaftans—the brand is a socially responsible label that preserves Saudi heritage through artisanal craftsmanship. Team Tonga achieved social media domination by way of their shirtless flag bearer and taekwondo competitor Pita Nikolas Taufatofua. See the bright blazers, traditional ensembles, and sleek track suits showcased at the 2016 Olympics opening ceremony in the gallery above.
