U.S. athletes carry on a sporty look to Vancouver

NEW YORK — The American athletes at the Winter Olympics will be ambassadors for the sporty style synonymous with American fashion.

The Ralph Lauren uniforms created for the opening ceremony and revealed Tuesday include a navy puffer jacket with red stripes, a chunky white turtleneck, white pants and an alpine-style hat — with moose, evergreens and American flags.

"I really hope the outfits are going to keep us warm — it's what I'm wearing," said David Lauren, the company's senior vice president of advertising, marketing and communications, who'll be making the trip to Vancouver.

The U.S. Olympic Committee reviewed designs at all phases, including inspiration boards and sketches. Final outfits are now being distributed to athletes.

Lauren said his favorite part of the outfit is the American flag on the back of the jacket.

"Whenever I see it (the flag), it makes me feel patriotic, especially when it's connected to the Olympics," he said. "It makes it personal. It's like watching a Yankees game in a shirt with Derek Jeter's name on it."

The opening outfits are modern and casual, while the previously revealed closing look — with a shawl-collar sweater with antique buttons and a newsboy cap — is very traditional.

Official gear is available on a limited-edition basis to consumers. The idea is for the garments to become "instant collector's items," said Lauren.