Haiti Just Won the Fashion Game at the Opening Ceremonies

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Vanessa FriedmanFebruary 6, 2026 at 09:26 PM

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At the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony, Haiti's two athletes garnered attention for their fashion, designed by Haitian-Italian designer Stella Jean. The outfits, referencing Haitian heritage and art, feature hand-painted designs inspired by Edouard Duval-Carrié's depiction of Toussaint Louverture, though the figure himself was omitted due to IOC rules. The collection includes trousers, a jacket, a puffer skirt, and a traditional Haitian tignon, symbolizing dignity and resistance. The designs, also involving former ski champion Pietro Vitalini, aim to assert national pride and identity. Haiti's ambassador to Italy emphasized the importance of presence and refusing to be confined by expectations, highlighting the significance of the symbolic outfits. Jean's previous designs for Haiti at the 2024 Paris Olympics are now displayed in the Olympic museum.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

International Olympic Committee 40% Pietro Vitalini 40% Paris Olympics 2024 40% Milan ×240% Edouard Duval-Carrié 50% Italy 50% Gandy Thomas 50% Toussaint Louverture 60% Stevenson Savart 60% Richardson Viano 60% Stella Jean ×490% Haiti ×790%

Keywords

haiti 100% fashion 100% olympic games 90% national identity 80% stella jean 80% cultural heritage 70% opening ceremonies 60% toussaint louverture 50% haitian art 50% winter olympics 40%