Vietnam delegation at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. (Source: Reuters)

The image of Mongolian athletes in exquisitely hand-embroidered costumes, taking the audience to the vast steppe, reminding them of nomadic life and close connection with nature, has become an unforgettable mark in the global "arena".

Meanwhile, the Berluti uniforms for the French team were steeped in history, harking back to France’s golden age of elegant tuxedos. The Italian athletes impressed in Giorgio Armani’s signature “Armani Blue” brand, expressing national pride with uniforms personalized to the Mameli hymns that were both stylish and rich in Italian heritage. The Portuguese skating uniforms, designed by Pedro Andrade, featured sustainable materials, demonstrating a commitment to eco-friendly fashion.

As a result, this approach brings good impressions about the national image, as well as the sportswear brand of the athletes. The compliments for the costumes, positive feedback from the media add to the confidence, sportsmanship and enhance the brand recognition of the home team.

Sportswear has now become an extremely effective means of non-verbal communication. Through clothing, we can convey profound messages about the culture, history, and people of a country. Each pattern, color, and material has its own meaning, creating an overall picture of a nation's cultural identity. This year's Paris Olympics opening ceremony helped the public see more clearly the message that fashion is a tool for storytelling, conveying, honoring, and exchanging culture.

Looking at others makes us think of ourselves! The Olympics is a golden opportunity to promote the image of the country. Athletes, when wearing uniforms bearing the national cultural imprint, are not only representatives of the country in competitions, but also "cultural ambassadors" in international exchanges. If the sports uniforms are associated with the beauty of Vietnam, leaving an impression on friends from other countries, it means they have contributed to promoting the image of the nation to friends from all over the world.

Referencing ideas and effectively applying them to the design and wearing of sportswear at the Olympics is a valuable lesson for fashion designers, athletes and diplomats who are promoting cultural diplomacy on all fronts.