MILAN (AP) — Mittens versus gloves? Hats against headbands? Merino wool over Mongolian cashmere? Fashion is its own competitor in any Olympics, from team uniforms at the opening and closing ceremonies to individual looks in the stadiums and — during the Winter Games — on the slopes.

The ice dance duo of Hannah Lim and Quan Ye placed seventh out of 10 teams in the rhythm dance portion of figure skating's team event at the Winter Olympics here on Friday. Lim and Quan scored 70.55 points in their Olympic debut at Milano Ice Skating Arena in Milan.

From ancient history to modern, sleek designs, here are some of the best outfits athletes will wear during the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

There will be 93 countries, plus numerous athletes from Russia and Belarus, competing at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.

With Italian design heritage in the backdrop and leading brands dressing teams from around the world, the 2026 Olympic uniforms are looking like they would be just as at home on the streets of any international fashion week as they will be on the podium.

The 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics are almost here, and the symbolic start to the Games will be the opening ceremony Friday. The lighting of the Olympic flame at the conclusion of the Olympic torch relay,