The 100-day countdown to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 has ignited excitement! Renowned French fashion house Berluti, sponsored by luxury giant LVMH, has unveiled the meticulously crafted outfits for Team France. This collaboration marks a remarkable milestone, fusing athletic excellence with the pinnacle of French fashion, ensuring a stunning entrance for the athletes at the Opening Ceremonies on July 26th and August 28th.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Elegance (LVMH and Berluti)
Established in Paris in 1895, it has long been synonymous with refinement and exceptional artistry. For Paris 2024, Berluti’s artisans have channeled their expertise into designing stylish tuxedo-inspired outfits that seamlessly blend tradition with modern flair. This ambitious project spotlights Berluti’s dedication to quality and its innovative approach to design, catering to the diverse physiques of athletes.
Designing for Excellence
Months of collaboration were involved with athletes, the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee, and the French National Olympic and Sports Committees. Under the creative direction of esteemed fashion consultant Carine Roitfeld, Berluti’s team focused on understanding the unique needs of the athletes. The result is a collection that exudes elegance, comfort, and flexibility, allowing the athletes to feel both stylish and unrestricted during these prestigious events.
The Outfits: A Fusion of Style and Function
Berluti’s design for Team France features a tuxedo crafted from luxurious midnight-blue wool, accented by a shawl collar with a bespoke “French flag” patina in blue and red. This motif pays homage to Berluti’s illustrious history of elegant leatherwork and patina techniques. The jackets, available in sleeved and sleeveless versions, form the centerpiece of the ensemble.
Paired with the tuxedo jacket is a white shirt, crafted from a cotton-silk blend, offered in sleeved or sleeveless options for men and women respectively. Female athletes can choose between tailored trousers with a sleek silhouette or a graceful silk wrap-around skirt, allowing for personal expression while maintaining a cohesive team look.
Footwear: A Testament to Berluti’s Heritage
Team France’s footwear comprises the Berluti Shadow trainers, redesigned in navy blue with French national colors. Female athletes can also select the supple Lorenzo leather loafer, ensuring both comfort and style. Berluti’s commitment to excellence is evident in every stitch, with each pair of Shadow sneakers requiring a staggering 384,000 stitches and the entire collection using 1.2 miles of laces.
A Historic Undertaking
This project is unprecedented for Berluti, involving the creation of over 1,500 outfits. Each piece was designed in France and meticulously crafted in Italy using European-sourced fabrics. Berluti expanded its standard size chart to accommodate all athletes, offering sizes from 3XS to 6XL and shoes ranging from size 1 to 22. This comprehensive approach ensures a perfect fit for every athlete, boosting their confidence as they step onto the global stage.
Embodying French Prestige
The unveiling of these outfits transcends a mere fashion statement; it’s a celebration of French elegance and craftsmanship. Antoine Arnault, LVMH’s Image & Environment Director, expressed his pride in the collaboration, highlighting how these outfits showcase Berluti’s savoir-faire and the athletes’ excellence.
Jean-Marc Mansvelt, CEO of Berluti, emphasized the creative partnership between artisans and athletes, resulting in outfits that honor French grace while serving the needs of the athletes and coaches. The meticulous design process has culminated in a collection that stands as a testament to the Maison’s dedication to style and innovation.
Tony Estanguet, President of Paris 2024, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the honor of welcoming the world back to France 100 years after the nation last hosted the Summer Olympics. The Berluti outfits will not only adorn the athletes but also serve as ambassadors of French heritage and brilliance, showcasing the best of the nation to a global audience.
A Lasting Impression
As the world watches the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, Team France will be adorned in outfits that encapsulate the spirit of French luxury and craftsmanship. Berluti’s boldness and innovation have set a new standard for athletic attire, ensuring that each athlete walks with pride and grace, truly embodying the spirit of “elegance à la française.”
Source: https://www.lvmh.com
