On 26 July 2024, during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris on the River Seine, the Czech team will make a bold statement with their national colors reimagined in a contemporary and artistic manner. Designed by Jan Černý in collaboration with ALPINE PRO, the collection combines elements of Czech heritage with a modern twist and features a unique handmade glass amulet by Lasvit.
Černý’s inspiration draws heavily from Czech pride, reflected in the dark blue, muted red, and creamy white hues of the outfits. The collection features several symbolic details, including the Czech flag and inscriptions of “CZE,” as well as “stamps” on a Japanese nylon jacket, signifying Černý’s connection with both the Czech Republic and France, where he honed his craft. The standout piece, a trench coat, merges the classic French garment with Czech design elements, such as a Rorschach pattern inspired by Czech artist Vladimír Boudník.
The ensemble includes color gradients on the polo shirt and trousers, echoing historic Czech jerseys, and an unexpected pea green accent on scarves, socks, sneakers, and labels, providing a modern touch to the traditional red, blue, and white palette.
Hand Made Glass Charm by Lasvit
Each Olympian and Paralympian will carry a special glass charm, designed by Černý and hand made by Lasvit, in the shape of a linden three leaf. The linden tree, the national tree of the Czech Republic is a symbol of love, perseverance and protection, that contains energy gathered from the ages, just like glassmaking. An energy that is not lost, but transformed – from generation to generation, from one form to another. Each charm is a handmade artwork representing determination, strength, and national pride. The amulets not only offer protection and support but also to create a tangible connection between the athletes and their homeland, reminding them that their nation is behind them every step of the way.
Paralympians in Style
The Paralympic team, set to make their entrance on 28 August, will wear jackets instead of coats, catering to the needs of wheelchair athletes. Despite this modification, the rest of the collection remains identical, embracing the Paralympians’ motto: “Same but different.”
“It’s extremely important for us, as a small country, to present a distinctive, contemporary, and relevant look. I am excited to see how our collection will be perceived in Paris, the city of fashion, alongside those of other nations,” said Jan Černý.
About Lasvit
Lasvit is a global pacesetter for creating daring, unique space and light experiences that are designed to elevate the feelings and the aesthetic of all. Founded by Leon Jakimič, Lasvit is both a taste and a thought leader in the design industry, with a boundless optimism and hunger for making art and design through fusing the traditional with the modern.
A modern, progressive spacial concept company schooled in the long traditions of Bohemian glassworks, Lasvit is a hub of uniquely creative art, design and production talent that creates breathtaking bespoke installations exhibited the world over, as well as uniquely stunning glass lighting and glassware collections.
Lasvit’s unformulaic and bold approach has captivated the global design industry, even winning the design “Oscar” award at Salone del Mobile.
Over the years, Lasvit has attracted renowned designers and artists who wish to collaborate with a brave, unconventional Czech company. Together with such influential voices as The Campana Brothers, Kengo Kuma, Yabu Pushelberg, Nendo and Ross Lovegrove, Lasvit has helped their partners realize the most unforgettable glass collections through their uninhibited artistry and unparalleled craft.
Lasvit is dedicated to a singular mission: To “Lift everyone” by creating breathtaking and sublime spacial experiences that touch the soul of all who look upon them.
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About Jan Černý
Jan Černý is a celebrated Czech designer known for his contemporary menswear and genderless fashion under the brand Jan Société. Despite his young age, Černý boasts impressive achievements, including an internship with the late designer Virgil Abloh at Louis Vuitton’s Paris atelier, serving as the creative director for Czech brand Kara, and being featured in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list. He dresses prominent figures like Barbora Strýcová, Callin, and Ben Cristovao and is a key player in the Czech Republic’s vibrant young cultural scene.
- Video: Olympic Team Video