Olympics-fever has struck, and we want in. Fashion heavyweights from Stella McCartney to Ralph Lauren are getting in on the games by designing for their home countries. That being said, perhaps the best way to channel the spirit of the event is sartorially. Here are our picks for collections and labels to wear to get those Rio 2016 vibes flowing.
1) Être Cécile
Image courtesy of Être Cécile
Our favourite presque parisienne brand is at the starting line with an Olympic-themed collection that will have you cheering #TeamCecile. An adorable dog motif in the colours of the Olympic rings serves as an ideal mascot while the racing stripes might just have you putting some extra pep in your step.
2) Isolda
Since Juliana Ferreira and Maya Pope launched their brightly-hued label from London in 2012, Isolda has kept Brazil (the designers’ homeland) at its heart. Their hand-painted designs have been inspired by South American culture from caipirinhas to the native flora, but with their latest capsule collection they’re embracing the sporty spirit of the Olympic games. We love the embroidered t-shirt that gives us major “Jerry Hall in a red swimsuit by Norman Parkinson” vibes.
3) Lane Marinho
Lane Marinho’s eco-conscious sandals, crafted from all natural materials, take you a step closer to Brazil. Shells, stones and rope create sandals worthy of more than a beach trip, and as they aren’t available in stores there’s the added seductiveness of exclusivity. Contact Marinho directly for a pair, just make sure to have your prettiest pedicure ready for when they arrive.
You might not recognise his name, but thanks to Gisele’s Rio runway moment, it’s on the tip of many more tongues. Yes, he’s behind that stunning gold sequined dress the Brazilian bombshell glided through Maracanā stadium in, but having been in the fashion game for over twenty years, he’s no rookie. The Brazilian designer recently walked away from his namesake label, but this week sees the launch of his new venture, a clothing line for À La Garconne, at Opening Ceremony.
Function and fashion aren’t always a happy marriage, which is why Stella should get a medal for her second successful go at designing the Team GB kits. She’s sharing her Midas touch with the Team GB Gold collection, athletic gear tinted in gold for those of us more likely to use our track pants for lounging than to run a 100m event.
Barbara Casasola spring/summer 2016
The Brazilian-born but London-based designer’s heritage subtlety shines through in her clothes — note the sensuality in both the hints of skin and the way the fabric moves across the body in her spring/summer 2016 collection. Her clothes are perfect for transporting your date night to a moon lit beach — at least in your fantasies.
7) Mother Denim
The straight-from-LA denim brand with a cheeky attitude has released two limited edition Goodie Goodie Tees to celebrate the games. Show your support with the faded font of the Brazil tee, or show higher levels of self-awareness and declare to the world that you’re a Sore Loser.
8) Ralph Lauren
You don’t have to be Team USA to appreciate a good skinny jean. Ralph Lauren has made his preppy Opening Ceremony looks available for purchase online. That includes customisable red, white and blue gear, and a double wrist strap that could easily be mistaken for a piece of Team GB paraphernalia.
9) Dsquared2
Dean and Dan Caten are bringing you a piece of the Opening Ceremony action as they partner with Hudson’s Bay to bring us a long-sleeved Canada tee and Canuck baseball cap. Sure, it might not be for those who bleed Team GB, but one for all and all for one in the Commonwealth, right?
10) Ara Vartanian
Ara Vartanian 18kt yellow gold earrings set with black, brown and white diamonds
Brazilian jewellery designer Ara Vartanian has just arrived in Mayfair, with a shop designed in conjunction with Estudio Tupi Architects. Bringing some South American spice to London, Vartanian’s vibrant designs suit us much better than an Olympic medal.