Renowned Indian designer Tarun Tahiliani has added a prestigious achievement to his illustrious career by becoming the first Indian designer to create the official ceremonial outfits for Team India at the Paris Olympics 2024. The event, scheduled to start on July 26, will see over 100 Indian athletes donning these specially designed outfits by Tahiliani’s menswear brand, Tasva, in collaboration with Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd.
The Design Philosophy
Tarun Tahiliani, who grew up surrounded by uniforms due to his father’s position as an Admiral in the Indian Navy, brings a unique blend of traditional and modern aesthetics to these ceremonial outfits. The men’s attire consists of a pristine white kurta-bundi set, while the female athletes will wear a sari paired with a high-neck blouse. Both outfits feature digitally printed saffron and green panels inspired by the ikat technique, a nod to the diverse textile traditions of India.
The buttonholes, colored blue to represent the Ashok Chakra, are set against an ivory base symbolizing peace and unity. The outfits are completed with modern golden trainers adorned with Banarasi brocade, adding a quintessential Indian touch.
Crafting Elegance and Comfort
Tarun Tahiliani’s design approach ensures that the athletes not only look elegant but also feel comfortable. The kurta-bundi set for men is made from lightweight moss cotton, offering breathability and comfort. The sari for women is crafted from viscose crepe, providing a natural drape and ensuring ease of movement.
Speaking to the press, Tarun explained, “This ceremonial dress beautifully combines classic Indian style with a modern, athletic touch. The kurta bundi set is crafted from lightweight moss cotton, ensuring breathability and comfort. The saree, a symbol of grace and cultural identity, is reimagined in viscose crepe for a natural drape and breathability, ensuring our athletes feel both elegant and comfortable.”
Inspiration and Innovation
The decision to use ikat-inspired prints stems from Tarun Tahilani’s appreciation for the technique’s universal appeal across India. “Artisans in each region derive their own variations through textiles. Therefore, it is a medium that is universal to India and hence the decision to use ikat-inspired prints in the ceremonial dress made sense,” he stated.
The use of gold brocade with the ivory dress aims to highlight a distinctive Indian color combination that complements every skin tone. He added, “The brocade sneakers are also meant to stand out.”
A Celebration of Indian Heritage
The ceremonial outfits also feature the Olympic logo embroidered on the breast pocket of the bundi, with “India” and the national flag prominently displayed above the five Olympic rings. This design element underscores the pride and honor of representing India on the global stage.
Tarun Tahiliani’s involvement extended from the initial sketches to the final samples, ensuring that the designs catered to the diverse body types of the athletes. He emphasized the versatility of the sari for women, which can flatter any body type, and the stylish comfort of the kurta-bundi set for men.
Final Thoughts
As Team India prepares to make its mark at the Paris Olympics 2024, Tarun Tahiliani’s designs will undoubtedly add a touch of elegance and cultural pride to their presence. The collaboration between Tasva and the Indian Olympics Association (IOA) reflects a strategic approach to blending tradition with contemporary style, empowering athletes to represent India with confidence and pride.
“Nothing can overshadow our athletes who have earned their place in the Olympic contingent through sheer grit and determination,” Tarun remarked, highlighting the true spirit of the Olympic Games and the honor of dressing the nation’s finest athletes.
Sources: The Indian Express , GQ India
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