Olympics and Fashion Challenging the Bigger Picture at the Olympics
By: ZaNaria Bowens
July 26, 2021
Breaking News in Fashion At The Tokyo Olympics
Humankind’s most treasured sports that unite individuals Global began three days ago on Friday, July 23rd, lasting until August 8th.
More Than Sports and Fashion At The Olympics
Women demand equal rights in wardrobe, while no longer in bikinis bottoms, but competing in athleisure shorts. Norway women’s beach handball addresses the unfair and sexualized regulations. The message Norway women send is the ability to be comfortable while competing.
(Picture from The New York Times) Norway’s women’s beach handball team sporting shorts
The Norway women’s beach handball team each received a 150 euros fine from the European Handball Federation. The New York Times required uniforms to be “a close fit and cut on an upward angle towards the top of the leg” (Jenny Gross, New York Times).
Challenging Against Sexualization From Uniforms, Next is Inclusiveness For Natural Black Hair
(Picture from The Undefeated) Soul Cap Brand Ambassador Alice Dearing
One brand, in particular, Soul Cap swimwear, was rejected from this year’s Olympics. The International Swimming Federation (FINA) banned swim caps designed for naturally thick, coarse, and curly hair. In response to banning Soul Cap, a statement released from FINA at BCC News, “Athletes competing at the international events never used, neither required to use caps of such size and configuration” (Dorothy J. Gentry, the Undefeated).
Young swimmers of color deserve to see representation in water and at the Olympics. More importantly, swimmers at the international level deserve products that support their natural hair. Two black men design the Soul Cap swim products. Michael Chapman and Ahmed understood the need for and protection for kinky hair while swimming.
(Picture from Soulcap.com) Alice Dearing: Training for the Olympics
Support and Inclusion Demand First Place in Tokyo
FINA plans to review decisions to allow Soul Cap products during the next Olympics next September. Additionally, a $25.5 million investment plan will become more inclusive worldwide.
FINA’s Mission Includes: Promotion and Support, Education, and Reach Full Competitive Products
Soul Cap understands the fundamental mechanics for protecting black hair. The takeaway here is to be fully aware of embracing the black community without denying any exception.
Daniele Obe, chair and co-founder of the Black Swimming Association, leaves us to remember one thing: “We are looking for more diversity in aquatics as a whole. And that means we need to look and cater to the special yet significant needs that we have as a community and one of their id hair” (Dorothy J. Gentry, the Undefeated).