Packing for any vacation always presents a plethora of
decisions. Should I pack a heavier coat? What if I spill something on my clothes? Can I do laundry? In
addition to the weather and size and weight restrictions, the Olympics present
an entirely new set of issues: what should your OLYMPIC wardrobe look like??
Your Olympic wardrobe shouldn’t break the bank, but you also
don’t want anyone to pass you on the street wondering which team you’re
cheering for. A few simple suggestions:
THE FLAG:
Don’t leave home without it. You should have at least one
that’s LARGE—it’s MUCH easier for NBC to spot a flag when it’s the size of a
person. Our sources also tell us that choosing a flame retardant material could
be important for when you encounter hostile fans from other countries. But
don’t stop there. Party City and loads of other stores stock Old Glory in every
shape and size. A few of our favorites:
--Gameface tattoos: You can order large quantities of these
for very little money, and then no matter what you’re wearing, your allegiance
is apparent. (tip: these are also great for sharing with Americans you
encounter who are not appropriately dressed. We don’t understand such people,
but we do support helping them)
--Small flags on sticks: If you’re worried about space, a
tiny flag can always be shoved into your back pocket or camera bag and whipped
out at an opportune flag waving moment.
--Bunting: Not only can you use this to make your living
space more festive, it can be fashioned into a sash (think Ms America) to add a
little pizzazz to any outfit.
Headwear:
Your best investment pieces are worn on your head. This is
what cameras will see to potentially put you on television. If you’re an
American, a cowboy hat is a great option. Although Americans typically
associate them with the South and rural areas, the rest of the world sees a
cowboy hat and knows you’re a Yank.
The winter Olympics will offer a great opportunity to show
off the red, white, and blue in a variety of styles. Start watching for hats
that feature USA colors the year before the games, and you’ll likely get a
bargain on awesome knitted caps. You’ll definitely want more than one, in case
you lose yours après ski in a bar, or it gets stolen by a jealous Russian fan.
Red, White, and Blue clothes:
Depending on the year, these can be very easy to find. Old
reasonably priced staples like Old Navy, the Gap, and Urban Outfitters often
offer pieces that feature the flag, as well as basic pieces in red, white, and
blue. These are great picks, because you can wear them before and after the
games. You can do a lot with a navy sweater when you pair it with a face
tattoo, a flag sash, and cowboy hat. Be creative.
If you don’t get clothes in advance, remember you can always
head to the American house to get the latest Olympic gear, but it will be
priced exorbitantly. Then again, you’re at the Olympics, so treat yourself!
Don’t be afraid to be bold. No one remembers the guy who
went to the Olympics and wore a black Columbia jacket. Don’t be that guy.
Aspire to be the guy who wears body paint and a wig to Men’s halfpipe.
Everybody loves that guy.
USA! USA! USA!
