As the countdown to the Paris Olympics 2024 ticks to 100 days, excitement and drama have only just begun! On April 11, 2024, Nike, Team USA’s official apparel partner, finally pulled back the curtain on the team outfits, announcing the specialized kits exclusively for athletes who qualify for the final events. And not only did Nike, the official partner, receive a backlash, but it was also blown by a vintage tracksuit from 1988!

After the release of the ‘first look’ by Citius Mag on Apr 11, instead of a chorus of cheers and applause flooding social media platforms, the kits stirred an online controversy. Some fans expressed disappointment in Nike’s design choices and how other brands were outdoing them; some called the women’s suits a “costume born of patriarchal forces,” while others labeled them outright as “the ugliest kits.” And to add fuel to the fire, comparisons have now begun to fly, with Florence Griffith Joyner’s legendary outfit suddenly stealing the spotlight.

Florence Griffith Joyner, the fastest woman ever, revolutionized the world of style. Her iconic wavy hair, vibrant accessories, sleek one-legged catsuits, and famously long nails set trends that transcended her era. Even 26 years after her passing, her records remain unchallenged. Beyond speed, her captivating fashion sense drew audiences. 

With each race, spectators eagerly anticipated her electrifying runs and her innovative fashion choices. Her enduring legacy inspires a new generation of athletes, from the likes of Sha’Carri Richardson to basketball stars such as Serena Williams,  Angel Reese and LeBron James, who honor her grace and style on and off the track.

A post by Beau Throws’s account sparked nostalgia and fashion debates within the track and field community. The post dived into the iconic outfits donned by Team USA track and field legends throughout the decades. From Michael Johnson’s striking ensemble that stole the show at the 1996 Olympics to the timeless elegance of Florence Griffith Joyner, affectionately known as Flo-Jo, at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

The caption’s query, “Which USA Olympic uniform are you wearing?🎽” prompted many responses. Opinions varied widely from Phil McCary’s nod to ’68 to Noah Lyles’ admiration for the styles of 2004 and 2012. However, it was Flo-Jo’s groundbreaking hooded white and red catsuit from 1988 that stole the spotlight, with commenters praising its futuristic aesthetic.

Fans react to the iconic looks and outfits of Flo-Jo

Florence Griffith Joyner’s fashion legacy extends beyond the hooded white and red catsuit from 1988. From the sleek Kappa bodysuit to the striking pink one-legged tracksuit she wore during the 1988 Olympic trials (where she set her world record for the 100-meter dash). Flo-Jo’s wardrobe was a symphony of innovation and style. Whether she dazzled in a sultry white lace bodysuit or donned the unforgettable gold and metallic grey leotard with iconic necklaces, her sense of fashion was truly ahead of its time.

The thread revealed a unanimous preference for past uniforms over the design unveiled for the Paris 2024 Olympics by Nike, highlighting the enduring allure of classic Olympic attire. With this look, Flo-Jo took home three gold medals and a groundbreaking Olympic record in the 100-meter dash.

Another lamented the lack of a strong visual identity for the current Olympic team, saying,

Meanwhile, a different fan reminisced about the memorable years of ’68, the year when Jim Hines ran a gold-medal-winning time of 9.95 seconds at the Mexico City Olympics in the 100m dash, which was held for 15 years, and ’88, when Flo-Jo created history by setting a record time that still stands three decades later!

With this look, Flo-Jo took home three gold medals and a groundbreaking Olympic record in the 100-meter dash. It portrayed not just her style but her speed. Another fan details on how well the outfit was designed for Flo-Jo!

With such diverse reactions, it’s evident that Nike’s kits for Team USA have ignited a passionate debate within the track and field community. What’s your take on the matter? Should Flo-Jo’s 1988 look make a comeback? Comment below!