From ‘sexist AF’ to skater vibes: Ranking the Commonwealth Games uniforms

With the world still recovering from the fashion statements and pink soccer boots at the World Cup, Commonwealth Games teams are keeping their opening ceremony uniforms under wraps. So far, only Scotland, Australia, and New Zealand have officially revealed their formal attire, while Bermuda has offered subtle clues about its upcoming look. The latest rankings of these uniforms have sparked both praise and criticism among observers and athletes alike. Team Scotland's ceremonial uniforms for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow have drawn mixed reactions. Designed by Siobhan Mackenzie, the outfits feature traditional elements such as sporrans, fly plaids, and kilts for men, paired with black heels, skirts that can be customized to individual preferences, and sporran-shaped purses for women. The design was unveiled with dramatic flair, reminiscent of a Bonnie Tyler music video, though some felt the presentation could have used more subtlety. Tennis legend Martina Navratilova criticized the women’s choice of high heels on social media, calling it “sexist AF.” Mackenzie emphasized her commitment to traditional values, stating that the tartan fabric and locally made garments reflect Scotland’s heritage and support its textile industry. Billie Eder, a sports writer based in Glasgow, expressed frustration over the mandated high heels, noting that while personal choice is acceptable, enforcing such a detail as part of the uniform feels outdated. Despite this, she acknowledged the appeal of the blue tartan design. Meanwhile, Team Australia’s uniforms, created by R.M. Williams, have received acclaim for their practicality and aesthetic. The standout feature is the Craftsman boots and matching belts, which have become a symbol of national pride. The rest of the outfit includes hunter-green blazers with gold accents, chinos, and skirts that evoke a sense of rural charm. First Nations-inspired design elements are subtly integrated into the jacket linings and accessories, reflecting a growing emphasis on cultural representation in sportswear. Billie Eder again voiced concerns about the lack of boldness in Australian fashion, suggesting that greater visibility of Indigenous designs might better capture the essence of the nation. She noted that while the uniforms are well-crafted, they fail to fully embrace the creative potential of the country’s diverse culture. In contrast, Team New Zealand’s uniforms, produced by Kathmandu, have been praised for their balance of sustainability and style. The theme of “future nostalgia” is evident in the use of merino wool, which was developed in collaboration with Woolmark and CSIRO for optimal performance in harsh weather conditions. The inclusion of QR codes allows athletes to connect with supporters back home, adding a modern twist to the traditional look. The wide-leg pants and baseball caps give the uniforms a casual, skater-inspired edge, although skateboarding is not an official sport at the Commonwealth Games. Bermuda, which has yet to formally unveil its uniform, has hinted at a more subdued approach, focusing on understated elegance. This aligns with the island’s reputation for refined dress codes and minimalist aesthetics. As the games near, anticipation grows for the remaining teams' reveals, particularly from England and Wales, whose uniforms remain undisclosed. The ongoing debate around gender norms in athletic wear continues to shape public discourse, with many calling for more inclusive and innovative designs that respect both tradition and modern sensibilities. As the opening ceremony approaches, the Commonwealth Games will continue to serve as a platform for showcasing national identity through fashion. Whether through traditional tartan, sustainable materials, or subtle nods to cultural heritage, each team’s uniform tells a story, some celebrated, others scrutinized, but all contribute to the evolving narrative of sport and style.