During the Olympics, its easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of the games; the speed, the danger, the sequins!?! Yes, as anyone who has watched figure skating can attest, there are lots of sequins. But it all leaves one wondering why do figure skaters, who have traditionally fought to be portrayed as real athletes, wear individually designed costumes?
Uniforms play such an important part of the Olympics games; they unify the teams visually, create team spirit, and show country affiliation. Many well known fashion designers have created the opening ceremony outfits. This has allowed the designers to show the particular style, taste, and popular colors of their home nations as well.
By not wearing a team uniform figure skaters not only emphasize the performance aspect of their sport over the athleticism but appear to be individuals in competition not part of a group from a home nation. Even their summer equivalent, gymnastics, wear identical (if sparkly) leotards. Granted, these are some of the shiniest, sparkliest leotards ever seen, but they are a uniform. Figure skaters have been depicted as effeminate and stereotyped as homosexual so being the only athletes in skirts doesn't help their image. Without the super sexy skirts, leather look pirate shirts, and frilly backless dresses perhaps viewers might be forced to appreciate the majesty of their strength, stamina, and agility. Being a beautiful performer is important too, but I think this should be reserved for professional competition and not the Olympic games.
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