Photo: Jean-Paul Goude

This year’s upcoming Paris Olympic Games is poised to be one of the most glamorous yet. With fashion industry giant LVMH as the official sponsor, the fusion of sports and fashion is inevitable. We’ve already seen glimpses of this in various Olympic-inspired launches in the fashion world — from Berluti’s expertly tailored Olympic uniforms and Chaumet’s Olympic medals to the Louis Vuitton trunks that house them.

Judging by the grand lead-up to this high-profile event, the spectacular blend of sports and fashion is just beginning, and no one captures this better than acclaimed French photographer Jean-Paul Goude. Since the 60s, Goude has been renowned for his dynamic depictions of sports in high fashion. Inspired by the Olympic spirit, let’s revisit some of Goude’s most stunning works that merge fashion and sports.

Photo: Jean-Paul Goude

For over 40 years, this legendary photographer has been shaping and defining fashion and culture with his innovative approach to showcasing the synergy and versatility between the glamorous allure of high fashion and the athletic spirit.

Photo: Jean-Paul Goude

Photo: Jean-Paul Goude

His remarkable talent in capturing high fashion within the realm of sports is best exemplified in his work for ELLE Paris in a 1996 issue, where couture-clad models were depicted on sports fields in action-packed shots. Couture fashion is often associated with fragility, heaviness, and sculptural silhouettes that restrict movement, so seeing wearers being active in photographs is unexpected. The contrast between the restrictive nature of couture and the dynamic displays of athleticism is a testament to Goude’s mastery in creating luxurious yet imaginative art, proving that fashion knows no bounds.

Photo: Jean-Paul Goude