2021.3.9

El Corte Inglés

1992

A red promotional blazer worn by tennis officiant Mary Lou Tierney at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain conveys sophistication.The piece includes prominent padding at the shoulders and functional pockets. Classically designed elements, modeled from male attire, includes a notched lapel, single breasted closing and button embellishments on the cuffs. The official embroidered Olympic logo, located below the breast pocket on the right hand side of the jacket, was designed by Josep Maria Trias from Barcelona. The graphic displays a human figure leaping over five interlocking rings which symbolize the union of five continents and the meeting of athletes from around the world.

This red blazer was not an official component of tournament uniforms worn by umpires on the court at the 1992 summer Olympics. The garment was distributed by El Corte Inglés to tennis officiants as a measure of refined dress to signify the importance of their role in making this world event possible. The competitive nature of this profession is organized through an intricate system to facilitate umpire scheduling regarding matches. Each country has their own methods in determining a ranked rating by using mathematical algorithms that assign individuals to matches suited to their talents. High profile proceedings such as the Olympics include the best officiants, where sponsors often distribute merchandise to promote their brand and support for the mission of the event. In this case, unity through fashion is evidenced by wearing finely crafted unisex garments for the opening and closing ceremonies.