The Olympic Federation of Ireland is this morning revealing the Opening Ceremony wear that will be worn by Team Ireland at the Olympic Games this summer in Paris.

Top Irish designer Laura Weber, through her brand LW Pearl, has created a bespoke uniform for the Irish Olympic team, which reflects a balance between tradition and contemporary trends, in line with the 100th anniversary of Team Ireland competing at the Olympic Games.

Dublin-born designer Laura Weber has been based in New York since 2013 and has her own fashion atelier in the garment district. She is a prominent figure in the New York fashion industry and is renowned for her innovative and luxurious embellishments.

The Opening Ceremony wear for Team Ireland comprises two blazers, for the Opening and Closing Ceremony, a t-shirt, shoes and trousers options. The suits incorporate national emblems and embellishments, each specifically designed to represent the journey of Irish athletes.

The fabrics are made from recycled plastics with practical elements to ensure athletes stay cool in the heat.

The sleeve is adorned with the embroidered county patch of each Olympian, artistically interpreted with beads, sequins and stones.

There are four shamrocks in different techniques of embellishments representing the four provinces of Ireland.

On the inside facing of each jacket the name of the athlete is included in embroidery making it a permanent and treasured souvenir for each athlete.

The Closing Ceremony jacket includes strapping around the neck that forms a star to frame any medals won for comfort and iconic photographs.

Weber represents the best of Irish talent in her field. She is best known for her embroidery for Dr. Jill Biden’s inauguration coat and dress. The Rathfarnham born designer works with names like Rihanna, Kaia Gerber and Lily Aldridge, as well as with designers including Gabriella Hearst, Proenza Shouler and Thom Browne.

“I am so proud to represent and interpret Ireland’s identity on a global stage,” she said.

“I wanted our athletes to look amazing while they perform at their peak on behalf of Ireland. The Olympic uniforms were a story I wanted to tell for Ireland.”

“Clothes change how you feel, and how you show up, and I wanted to make the best for our athletes. I want to thank every athlete, and the Olympic Federation of Ireland, for allowing me this opportunity to work with the team.”

 

 

“Laura Weber is one of Ireland’s brightest talents in the fashion world, and it is very fitting that on our 100th year of competing at the Olympic Games that we work with someone who also represents the Best of Ireland,” added Gavin Noble, Chef de mission for Team Ireland.

Boxer Dean Clancy, and Cyclist Lara Gillespie, both of whom are targeting their first Olympic Games are pictured above modelling the teamwear.

“Getting to see the Opening Ceremony outfits makes it very real,” said Clancy. “The Olympic Games is the pinnacle of any athlete’s career, and it will be an especially proud moment for all of us athletes and our families this year, kicking off with the parade of nations on the Seine.”

The Opening Ceremony will take place on the River Seine, with each nation parading on a boat.

“I love the Opening Ceremony outfits and in particular the sustainable design,” said Gillespie.

“As athletes, we know that while we are representing Ireland on the biggest stage, so many people and communities have brought us here, and this is reflected by Laura in the design elements.”

 

Sport for Business Perspective:

This is an imaginative piece of storytelling, highlighting the Irish influence on fashion in the city that is synonymous with that aspect of culture.

Weber left Ireland as a young woman determined to make her way in fashion and her personal story is reflective of the athletes who have sacrificed what most if us would consider a ‘normal’ life to achieve their dreams.

Fashion is always subjective and some will delight, others will scoff but the level of detail is astonishing and this is another great story on the Road to Paris.

 

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