Polo Ralph Lauren Unveils U.S. Outfits For Vancouver Games

U.S. Athletes Model '10 Olympic Outfits On NBC's "Today"

Polo Ralph Lauren today "began its strategic unveiling of its outfits" for U.S. Olympians competing in the Vancouver Games, 100 days ahead of the start of the Games, according to Samantha Critchell of the AP. The Closing Ceremony parade outfit includes a "mostly red and blue shawl-collar sweater with antique buttons, a newsboy cap, a plaid shirt for the men, and a navy ribbed turtleneck for the women." Also, long-sleeve T-shirts with "big bold graphics printed on the chest are part of the Olympic Village wardrobe, as well as white warm-up jackets with red and blue stripes down the sleeves and old-school alpine ski sweaters decorated with reindeer" (AP, 11/4). USOC CMO Lisa Baird said Polo Ralph Lauren's Closing Ceremony outfits are "vintage-inspired." Baird: "They're classic American with a modern flair. We've got beautiful wool cardigans with 'U.S.A.' on the back and the Team USA logo" ("Today," NBC, 11/4).

EXCLUSIVE LOOK: NBC's "Today" this morning featured an exclusive look at U.S. Olympians' apparel for the Vancouver Games. U.S. snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler and speedskater J.R. Celski modeled Nike's Medal Stand outfit. Baird said the hat for men is "all about warmth, it's all about comfort," while the women's hat is "about being sporty and also looking great." Both athletes were wearing "waterproof down jackets" that Baird said are the "first of their kind because they're made entirely from recycled material." Baird: "The great part about (the jackets) is that no two are alike. All of the prints are different." The athletes also modeled "alpine boots" with Team USA on the side. Meanwhile, NBC's Al Roker said the athletes also can "personalize" their gear. U.S. biathlete Tim Burke modeled apparel he personalized, and said, "It's very stylish." Baird said fans can have their name on the back of apparel in any color at TeamUSAShop.com ("Today," NBC, 11/4).