If internet popularity were the deciding factor, Team Mongolia’s uniforms for the Paris Olympics would undoubtedly secure the gold medal for style and originality. Designed by the renowned Mongolian couture brand Michel & Amazonka, these uniforms have enthralled social media audiences with their striking designs, intricate embroidery, and profound cultural significance. The elaborate vests, dresses, and accessories, adorned with cultural motifs, are set to be worn during the opening ceremony on July 26, earning widespread acclaim for their unique aesthetic.

TikToker Ryan Yip, whose video showcasing the outfits has garnered over 424,500 likes, described the look as “sorcery.” He praised the designers and the Mongolian Olympic team for their bold and exceptional fashion statement, expressing admiration for their dedication and creativity. Another TikToker, known as Regularguy_sports, ranked Team Mongolia first in his list of top Olympic uniforms, noting that “Mongolia looks like they are going for war,” and that their uniforms exude a fierce and commanding presence.

Michel & Amazonka, who unveiled the designs earlier this month through an impressive social media video, have a history of designing Mongolia’s Olympic opening and closing ceremony outfits for the past two Olympic games. For the Paris Olympics, they have created distinct outfits for male and female flag bearers and athletes, drawing inspiration from the traditional Mongolian deel, a calf-length gown characterized by its high collar and long sleeves. These uniforms not only highlight the colors of the Mongolian flag but also incorporate the Soyombo, the national symbol prominently featured on the country’s banner. The designers took meticulous measurements of each athlete to ensure a perfect fit, a process that they shared on social media. Completing the looks took over three months, with each set requiring an average of 20 hours to finish.

The sister duo behind the brand, Michel Choigaalaa and Amazonka Choigaalaa, have previously expressed in an interview with Forbes that they draw abundant inspiration from Mongolia's rich tradition and culture. “Right now, you can find a lot of ideas here in Mongolia, from the tradition and culture, because it’s not very known in the world,” they explained. “People often know it from historical figures like Genghis Khan and from ancient history. But in current times, you can find a lot of ideas from people’s clothes, the way we do cultural things, ceremonies and stuff like that.”

Team Mongolia’s standout uniforms are part of a larger trend of national teams gaining attention for their distinctive Olympic attire. Team Haiti, for instance, has garnered significant praise for their vibrant uniforms that feature the artwork of Haitian painter Philippe Dodard, designed by Stella Jean. Similarly, Team Nigeria has received accolades for their stylish green-and-white sportswear, designed by Los Angeles-based, Black-owned label Actively Black.

As the world anticipates the grand spectacle of the Paris Olympics, it is clear that Team Mongolia’s uniforms will not only stand out for their visual appeal but also for their deep cultural resonance and the dedication behind their creation. The meticulous craftsmanship, combined with the rich cultural heritage embedded in the designs, promises to make a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.