Hey, dude -- where are the cufflinks? Vancouver Olympic uniforms puzzle many

November 8, 6:23 PMOlympics ExaminerTom Burke

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USA Uniform   (AP Ralph Lauren photo)

Kudos for the posh Polo Ralph Lauren clothier for bedecking all the USA athletes who will be competing in the Vancouver Olympics. In these tough economic times, the U.S. Olympic Committee needs all the sponsor support it can get.

However, the uniform designs are really old-school. "We took a lot of inspiration from the 1930's Games,” said David Lauren, the company's senior vice president of advertising, marketing and communications.  OK, there.

During the closing ceremonies, athletes will be wearing “shawl-like collar” sweaters fastened with antique buttons, and depression-era newsboy caps.

Although I am sure many athletes will treasure any gifts they receive as mementos of their experience, I somehow doubt the Generation Y snowboarders, well-known for their ragtag attire, will ask for a back-up pair of cufflinks.

Instead, after parading into the stadium for the closing ceremonies, they’ll likely be seen sitting in the stands trading their stuffy attire for cooler Middle East fezzes, Alpine bibs, and Scandanavian sweaters.

                                             USA Olympic Team Snowoarding Hopefuls