Uniform for Russian olympiad teams unveiled

---

The first stage of a project to create a national uniform for school and university students representing Russia at international academic and scientific olympiads was presented on 24 March at the Kosygin Russian State University. The presentation was held during a meeting of the Board of the Council under the National Centre RUSSIA on developing and promoting a new Russian style in the public space.

"The uniform for our school and university olympiad participants is one of the Council’s priority projects, which has already moved into the stage of practical implementation. Young people who represent the country at international intellectual contests must present themselves with dignity and feel our support. We see how brilliantly our children perform at olympiads, and the way they look acquires special significance for the country and society," said the Chair of the Council and Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation, Yelena Yampolskaya.

The first part of the collection was presented by the founder of the brand "Neva" and the Council’s project team leader, Alisa Lobanova. She explained that the aim at this stage is to refine production technology, test the fit on different body types, and shape the final vision of the style.

"It was important for us to create not just attractive clothing, but a functional system in which every detail contributes to both appearance and comfort. The uniqueness of the project lies in the fact that a unified uniform for olympiad teams has not previously been created. With the support of the Council, the initiative has moved into practical implementation. In January 2026, the project entered the stage of developing and producing prototype samples," she noted.

Specialists from the Kosygin Russian State University were also involved in the development. Their participation made it possible to combine historical knowledge of Russian costume with modern technologies, ensuring the ergonomics of the garments.

"The initiative to develop a modern uniform for school students representing the country at international olympiads is aimed at creating a unified visual identity that reflects a high level of training, respect for traditions, and a contemporary approach to style. The collection is based on an adaptation of the classic suit for a teenage audience: comfort, functionality, and restrained aesthetics. The project is focused on supporting talented school and university students and strengthening their representation on the international stage," explained the Rector of the Kosygin Russian State University, Valery Belgorodsky.

Range of designs and colour scheme

The sample line includes both formal and casual clothing. The formal line will form the basis of the representative wardrobe of Russian teams at international contests. The sets include parkas, coats, jackets, waistcoats, trousers, skirts, and accessories.

Two main colours have been approved: deep blue and refined grey. Blue has been chosen as the representative colour, associated with intellect and professional culture, and conveying a sense of respect. Grey complements it, expressing restrained strength. Combined with white accessories, it evokes the image of ice, emphasising resilience and clarity of mind.

National code: symbolism and decoration

The task of making the uniform reflect the national and cultural code of the country required the integration of state and cultural symbols. Two stylistic directions were chosen: the colours of the Russian national flag and authentic ornamentation.

The decoration of the jackets features embroidery with a plant motif from Veliky Ustyug, a recognisable element of traditional folk art. It combines a contemporary cut with heritage.

Accent elements include patches and metal lapel pins. Among the options are two logos for the teams: stylised rings symbolising the unity of school students, university students, and mentors, and a globe emphasising the global scale of intellectual achievements.

The next stage of the project will be the development of a casual line of uniforms, scheduled for May 2026.

Following the meeting, members of the Board of the Council highly praised the presented collection, noting the developers’ responsible work and the thorough attention to every element. The project will continue with account taken of the recommendations made during the discussion.