The Winter Olympics are underway in one of the fashion capitals of the world– Milan, Italy, bringing to life the contrast between luxury fashion and winter sportswear. The opening ceremony acted as a runway, showcasing uniforms and color palettes for each country. Teams are using fashion to depict their heritage, politics, and pride for their country. For the first time ever, the Olympics held a fashion showcase featuring Olympians modeling opening ceremony outfits and sportswear, while also highlighting young, student designers local to Milan.

With Italy’s reputation for design and producing elite luxury fashion, the stakes are higher for this year’s Winter Olympics looks. Italy honored the Italian designer Giorgio Armani, who passed away in September, at the Opening Ceremonies. Armani designed for Team Italia for the last four Olympics, and was inspired by the way athletes committed to a sport wholeheartedly. Team Italia wears his designs once again as they take on their competition in the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Another luxury brand intertwined in the Olympic realm is Ralph Lauren, representing Team USA with ceremonial outfits and other 2026 Winter Olympics gear. It combines the traditional brand identity of Ralph Lauren with the functionality of winter gear, while incorporating the red, white, and blue color scheme of Team USA. Through its classic knit sweaters, wool pieces, and American pride, Ralph Lauren created the perfect winter wardrobe for Team USA.

So what impact does the Winter Olympics fashion have on trend cycles? Cold-weather fashion is now combining expressiveness with functionality. We are seeing more of this fashion off the ice and on the streets, being stated as “Olympic-core”. With puffer jackets, big goggles, layering, and Après-ski culture, winter sports aesthetics are shaping winter fashion trends. Accessories like balaclavas, gloves, and hats have turned from necessities to statements. Winter fabrics such as thermals and waterproofs have been weaved into everyday pieces. 

The Winter Olympics enforces the idea that luxury should be functional. Similar to what we saw in Paris Fashion Week, luxury is changing from extravagant to something the everyday person can wear. Fashion stemming from the Winter Olympics redefines the idea of luxury, proving that it should be durable and built to last, long after the games end and the medals are won.