Paris Olympic Uniforms and Medals: A Blend of Luxury and Controversy

The Paris Olympic medal ceremony uniforms and medals, crafted by luxury brands like LVMH and Louis Vuitton, received mixed reactions in Korean online communities. While many praised the aesthetics and design, some criticized the appropriateness of luxury involvement and the unisex nature of the uniforms. Despite differing opinions, a majority of Koreans seemed to appreciate the uniforms more than they disapproved.

Unveiling the Attire and Medals for the Paris Olympics

Photos of the uniforms for the Paris Olympic medal ceremony assistants and the medals themselves have surfaced on Korean community platforms. The uniforms, created by LVMH, are designed to be gender-neutral, marking the first time in Olympic history that volunteer uniforms are unisex. These uniforms draw inspiration from designs of the 1920s. Additionally, Louis Vuitton crafted the torch case and medal tray, while Chaumet designed the medals.

A Design Inspired by La Belle Époque

The unisex volunteer uniforms, designed by LVMH, feature wide-legged beige trousers, a white polo shirt, and a Gavroche cap, all reminiscent of 1920s France’s La Belle Époque era. While some have praised the design for its elegance and practicality, others have criticized it as bland and uninspired, likening it to bakery worker uniforms or even socialist attire.

Korean Community Reactions to the Uniforms and Medals

Upon the release of these photos, a plethora of comments emerged on Korean social media. Many praised the uniforms, noting the elegance of French aesthetic sensibilities. The trousers were admired for their beautiful fit, and the beige color was noted for its difficulty to perfect. The beret, in particular, was highlighted as an excellent item evoking quintessential French imagery. Similarly, the medals received widespread acclaim for their beauty, with some comments even hailing the Louis Vuitton-crafted medal trays as a touch of genuine luxury to the Olympics.

Controversy Over Luxury Brand Involvement

Despite the positive feedback, some voiced concerns about the appropriateness of luxury brands creating items for an event that promotes sustainability. Critics questioned whether it was right for high-end companies to be involved. However, supporters countered this by pointing out that LVMH is a long-standing, iconic French fashion house, and it was natural for France to feature its historic brands during an event hosted in the country.

Varied Opinions in Korean Online Communities

As the uniforms circulated through nearly every Korean online community, opinions varied widely. While the medals and trays were universally praised, the uniforms sparked more debate. Humorous comments likened the uniforms to those of employees at the popular Korean bakery chain, Tous Les Jours. On women’s forums, many appreciated the gender-neutral aspect of the uniforms, noting the comfort of trousers over skirts for ceremony assistants.

Criticism and Cultural Differences

However, not all feedback was positive. Some doubted that French aesthetics could satisfy global tastes, with significant criticism from male communities who felt the outfits fell short for an Olympics held in the fashion capital of Paris. The unisex nature of the uniforms was also a point of contention for some. The harshest critiques compared the uniforms to socialist attire, specifically North Korean styles, suggesting they were more suited to such aesthetics.

Bridging the Aesthetic Divide Between France and Korea

While the ceremonial outfits designed by French luxury brands have garnered much praise from Koreans, they do not resonate with everyone. Given the geographical distance between France and Korea, differences in aesthetic preferences are understandable. Nonetheless, it is essential to recognize and appreciate these cultural differences. Ultimately, more Koreans appear to appreciate the uniforms than criticize them.

Musinsa Standard Unveils Team Korea’s Uniforms for the Paris Olympics

Musinsa Standard unveiled the Korean national team’s uniforms for the Paris Olympics, fusing traditional Korean elements with modern style. The blue “belted suit setup” embodies youth and ambition, while the celadon porcelain pattern and “gakdae”-inspired belt add hanbok touches.

Mongolian National Team Uniforms Captivate Korean Netizens

The Mongolian national team’s uniforms for the Paris Olympics have garnered significant attention and praise from Korean online communities. Netizens admired the uniforms’ traditional aesthetics and Mongolian warrior spirit.

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