With the 2012 Summer Olympics starting today, I'm sure you all have heard about the flak that American designer Ralph Lauren has gotten over the past few weeks for his ill-designed U.S. team opening ceremony uniforms. I must admit, when I first saw the clothes on TMZ (yes, TMZ), I didn't think they looked horrible...but then I started to analyze.

Why is it so stiff? Why the lack of red? Berets aren't American, are they? Is the polo logo necessary?

I think the U.S. uniforms could have been done much better if a few things were changed. Ralph Lauren makes polo-style clothes, but I don't know if that's an advantage or disadvantage. And they don't look any different from the 2008 style, which is probably my biggest peeve. Furthermore, we recently found out that the clothes weren't even made in America. Not saying I wish Ralph were more like Dov Charney, but maybe the American Apparel designer might have been a better fit. Ralph has stated that he plans to have all uniforms made in America for the 2014 Olympics.

Anyhoo, with all my ranting aside, let's check out U.S. Olympic fashion through the years courtesy of Sports Illustrated.

~ 1920 ~
I know these are U.S. uniforms, but for some reason they just make me want to say fraulein. The hats are appropriate for the time and very cute, but you wouldn't even know these ladies were athletes.
~ 1936 ~
You can tell that these ladies were a bit spunkier. Afterall, prohibition had ended. I spy cinched waists and cute Mary Janes that make this fashion pop.
~ 1968 ~
For some reason, I think this look is uber stylish. I know it's a bit Star Trek, but I am diggin' the leggings and the side buttons on the jackets. 1968 Olympics fashion: I want to go to there.
 ~ 1984 ~
I don't know if you can tell but everyone is wearing cowboy hats, cowboy boots, cowboy everything. I must say, the theme is very American, but stylish...not so much. Everyone reminds me of John Travolta in Urban Cowboy (although I do love that movie).
 ~ 1992 ~
I have no words. OK, I have words, but not many. Don't add a hat to an ensemble just to add a hat. Know how to accessorize. Go Blue!
 ~ 2012 ~
Now this I like a little better. My only wish is that the polo logo wasn't so "in your face" on the shirts. It's about the team and the country, not the brand. Gymnast McKayla Maroney is so cute and tiny though!
Which year is your favorite? For me, it's a toss up between '36 and '68.
Any thoughts on the Ralph Lauren controversy?
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Just had to add this Olympic look by The Netherlands this year that my friend showed me because it is haute!
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