Tarun Tahiliani defends Olympic uniforms amid criticism; says it’s time to focus on medals | – Times of India

Dressmaker Tarun Tahiliani has defended the uniforms he created for the Indian contingent on the 2024 Paris Olympics, regardless of dealing with important backlash. Tahiliani emphasised the significance of specializing in the athletes’ performances fairly than the controversy surrounding the apparel. He additionally famous that some industrialists had proven curiosity in his designs, reflecting a extra optimistic reception from sure quarters.

Tahiliani, famend for his work in Indian vogue, has all the time been celebrated for his capacity to mix conventional magnificence with modern aptitude.Recognized for his intricate craftsmanship and modern method, Tahiliani’s designs typically characteristic luxurious materials and detailed elaborations. His work extends past excessive vogue, incorporating parts of cultural heritage into trendy aesthetics, making him a distinguished determine within the vogue trade.
Relating to the Olympic uniforms, Tahiliani expressed his dedication to the design, regardless of the criticism. He clarified that the choice to decorate feminine athletes in sarees was not made by him on the final minute, however he aimed to create a cohesive look that mirrored the Indian flag’s colors. “I stand by these uniforms,” Tahiliani affirmed. “Whereas opinions differ, I consider within the symbolism and intention behind the design.”
“It is time to give attention to the medals I feel,” the style designer was quoted as saying.
The Olympic outfits drew criticism on social media, with some labeling them as “eyesores” and “works of absolute mediocrity.” The male athletes had been wearing white kurta pyjamas paired with jackets that includes the saffron and inexperienced of the Indian tricolor, whereas the feminine athletes wore sarees.

Former Indian badminton star Jwala Gutta voiced her disappointment on X (previously Twitter), criticizing the choice to make use of sarees, notably provided that not all feminine athletes are accustomed to draping them. Gutta additionally expressed issues concerning the match and total aesthetic of the clothes. “The clothes made for the Indian contingent have been an enormous disappointment!” Gutta wrote. “The sarees had been uncomfortable, and the blouses had been poorly fitted. The colour and print didn’t replicate the richness of Indian tradition.”

In response to the backlash, Tasva, an Aditya Birla Group model the place Tahiliani serves as chief design officer, issued a press release. They clarified that the objective was not high fashion however useful and cozy uniforms for athletes. “We at Tasva by Tarun Tahiliani are conscious of the feedback however would request your understanding and assist,” the assertion learn. “Our focus was on creating useful and cozy uniforms, and we’re happy with the optimistic suggestions we’ve obtained from the athletes themselves.”
Tasva additional emphasised their dedication to representing India with dignity and delight. “We consider that the tricolor design was a robust image of nationwide delight because the athletes sailed previous the Seine River,” the assertion concluded.