Olympic Formalwear
London 2012 Glory: NEXT unveils its eagerly anticipated formalwear designs for the athletes of Team GB and ParalympicsGB.
A suit like no other? Next’s talented design team has channeled its creative flair and expertise into exclusive formalwear looks for all the athletes of Team GB and ParalympicsGB to sport on official occasions during the London 2012 Games.
The striking results, rendered in navy with discreet touches of gold, combine the elegance of fine contemporary tailoring with the comfort and ease of performance sportswear.
Every garment abounds in distinctive detailing. Men’s jackets, fashioned from a premium quality smooth milled cloth, are styled with slender peak lapels and double angle-darting for a truly ergonomic fit. Lightweight breathable interlinings ensure these prime athletes will keep their cool even when the going hots up!
The melton underside of each jacket collar is embroidered with the team motto – Better Never Stops for Olympians, and Talent, Pride, Determination for Paralympians. The same inspirational slogans are engraved on all buttons. And there’s just as much attention to detail on the inside, from the neatly tabbed pockets for pens, phones, cameras and MP3 players . . . to the distinctive mesh and jacquard linings, inspired by the Union Jack.
Our iconic national flag is also interpreted for intricate laser-cut decoration on the bodice of the flattering cowl-neck dresses that so perfectly partner the women’ jackets. To give an ultra-feminine, modern silhouette, these have been fashioned from a wonderfully fluid, breathable technical fabric. Both items have sportive drawstring detailing at the waist – and the team logo discreetly rendered on the back.
These distinctive formalwear options, designed with equal measures of creativity and ingenuity, aim to set our finest athletes apart. Combining thoroughly contemporary elegance and functional practicality, they provide suitably distinguished looks for the extraordinary men and women of our greatest-ever team. Definitely, the pride of GB.
*Next has also produced a replica version of the suit that will be available in 31 stores across the UK, priced at £220 and launching on the 19th May.
For more information, visit next.co.uk.
