Paris Olympics: A Fusion of Fashion and Gender Parity

At the Paris Olympics, a unique fashion show marked the celebration of gender parity in sports. Organized by Angela Ruggiero, the event saw current and former Olympians strut down the runway. This year, the International Olympic Committee aims for a 50-50 gender split in participation, celebrating women's voices both on and off the field.

The Paris Olympics have been dubbed the Fashion Olympics, as the city, renowned for its fashion scene, hosts a unique celebration of gender parity.

Angela Ruggiero, a four-time U.S. Olympic medalist in ice hockey, organized a fashion show to mark this milestone. Around 20 Olympians took to a makeshift runway in a Paris restaurant, cheered on by an enthusiastic audience. Ruggiero has long observed the trend of sport intersecting with fashion.

The International Olympic Committee set a goal for a 50-50 gender split among the 10,500 athletes participating in 329 events. While the final numbers will be confirmed at the Games' conclusion, the female athletes who joined Ruggiero were eager to celebrate and push for further advancements in sports. Kerri Walsh Jennings emphasized the need for continuous momentum, asserting that gender parity should be a year-round goal.

The PARITY Paris runway show, hosted by 4TheWalk and partnered with Coca-Cola, featured athlete-models showcasing various brands. New Zealand BMX racer Sarah Walker, six months pregnant, and Australian beach volleyball player Natalie Cook were among those who participated, highlighting the importance of setting an example for future generations.

(With inputs from agencies.)