The 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan, Italy, was a source of impressive skill. Spectacular athletes from all over the world gathered and competed to bring home gold for their countries. Just as the multiple events garnered attention and praise from audiences, so too did the incredible outfits that were seen during the games. Some went all out with their wardrobe, using the worldwide stage to make an unforgettable impression with their clothing.
Figure skaters are given the chance to experiment most with fashion as other athletes must dress in heavy uniforms to brave the cold during outdoor events. This year’s competitors certainly didn’t disappoint; just look at Team USA’s Amber Glenn and her most stunning outfits on the ice. Attendees garnered attention for their outfit choices as well whether they were performing during the opening and closing ceremonies, or simply enjoying the games as a fan. From competition outfits to fashionable numbers worn by celebrity onlookers, there was no shortage of appealing attire to be seen. Check out the ensembles that we won’t stop thinking about for the next four years!
Alysa Liu manifested winning gold with her outfit
Alysa Liu established herself as a darling of Team USA, achieving a gold medal for her free skate routine in a dress that donned the winning color. This gorgeous gown worked like a charm as Liu glided across the ice making turns and tricks with ease. Her backless dress shimmered with elegant beading from the neck collar at the top all the way down to the mesh skirt. The light shade of the outfit matched the blond highlights that contrast Liu’s dark hair: one of the many eye-catching hair looks that Alysa Liu has rocked.
Mariah Carey confirmed her legendary status in a gorgeous gown
Mariah Carey slayed the stage with her vocals during the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics and wore an equally impressive outfit to match. Carey belted out her song while wearing a stunning and slimming strapless gown that included silver sparkle detailing throughout. The dress looked like it was inspired by disco fashions of the 1970s, but in a way that didn’t feel outdated. Complete with voluminous curls, Carey accessorized with a feather boa that only a diva of her level could pull off so effortlessly.
Piper Gilles paid tribute to a famous piece of classic art
Ice dancer Piper Gilles of Team Canada included one of the most famous paintings of all time in her Olympic wardrobe. She wore a beautiful, free flowing gown that illustrated imagery from Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic “The Starry Night.” The blue backdrop felt oceanic with swirls of cool color tones offset by pops of yellow sunbursts throughout. The silhouette and construction of the one-shoulder gown was simple, allowing the recognizable design to be the center of attention. It was certainly one of the most detailed fabrics on the ice this year.
Carolina López Moreno commanded the room with a dress that matched her voice
The closing ceremony of the Olympics calls for a big, dramatic moment. Opera singer Carolina López Moreno did exactly that with an enormous musical performance. She played the role of Violetta from Giuseppe Verdi’s “La Traviata” opera in a massive outfit that symbolized the importance of the world-famous event. Her black dress included multiple tiers of pink and black ruffles. To match, she wore a gargantuan structured hat that would impress the likes of Lady Gaga with its height and boldness.
Kimmy Repond’s floral embellishments added dimension
Kimmy Repond of Switzerland was one of the only figure skaters to include three dimensional embellishments on her Olympic outfit. Her purple gown was decorated with beautiful floral elements on the bodice. Soft lace overlay surrounded flower shapes in a dark-plum color. The intricate details really took this outfit to the next level. The garment was perfectly balanced with a subtle lilac-purple skirt that allowed the artistry of the top to really shine.
Halle Bailey stunned in the audience with a maximalist fluffy coat
While watching the Olympics from the stands, actor and singer Halle Bailey commanded attention with her oversized outerwear. The bottom layer of the coat appears to be white leather and is topped with feathered white fluff for height and shape. Shaggy coats have grown in popularity recently as a way to show opulence while combating cold temperatures. They feel reminiscent of the wraps that Old Hollywood actors used to wear. The warmth of the garment is perfect for winter, so what better place to wear it than the Winter Olympics?
Lee Hae-in’s figure skating costume was a tool for storytelling
Lee Hae-in of Korea decided to embrace cinematic characteristics with her figure skating routine. Skating to music from “KPop Demon Hunters,” the performance began with her wearing a black kimono that covered her entire body. She held a matching black fan and wore a long-brimmed black hat on her head before ripping off the kimono in an unexpected twist. Underneath, she revealed a two-piece white top and miniskirt combo that completely contrasted the original outfit, much like those worn by the main character in “KPop Demon Hunters.”
Tara Lapinski channeled gold in a sexy minidress
A former Olympic figure skater herself, Tara Lapinski returned to the games this time as a correspondent. She has come a long way since her first Olympic appearance nearly 30 years ago. Lapinski decided to dress up at this year’s Olympics by wearing a reflective gold minidress. The disco-ball effect gave off the impression of broken glass, feeling avant-garde and industrial with its artistry. One look at Lapinski’s killer athletic legs and no one would ever believe that she’s in her 40s. Tara Lapinski has been guilty of a few fashion mistakes, but this wasn’t one of them.
Marie-Jade Lauriault cosplayed as a princess
Team Canada’s Marie-Jade Lauriault seemed to be channeling Princess Jasmine from Disney’s “Aladdin” with her figure skating outfit. The teal two piece is almost identical to Jasmine’s signature ensemble, and the addition of a gold snake across the neck and bodice screams “Cave of Wonders.” The snake element feels artistic and kind of dangerous, adding more layers to the routine literally and theatrically. Luckily, it didn’t weigh her down in the slightest. Her single sleeve added drama to match the snake accessory, both of which were eye-catching as the skater twirled around.
Allison Reed proved how skating can be edgy
The standard wardrobe for a figure skater usually consists of a sparkling spandex dress with crisp colors. Breaking tradition, Team Lithuania’s Allison Reed set herself apart from the rest with an outfit that felt more edgy than dainty. She took a risk by wearing a studded leotard that gave the impression of a bralette that connected to black pants. Then she accessorized with a neck chocker and gold belt. Where this outfit really comes together is the fitted pants, complete with black lace and gold buttons cascading down the entire side panel. This grunge-inspired ensemble looked so cool on the ice.
