As the Olympics 2024 comes to an end, the internet buzzes with fervour over medal counts, transforming office chatter into spirited debates and friendly wagers. But, beyond the adrenaline-pumping feats and nail-biting matches, there’s another arena that demanded our attention: beauty.
With gymnast-approved setting sprays, artsy manicures and more, the Olympics have become a global stage where athletes showcase not only their athletic prowess but also their personal style. Past games have gifted us with unforgettable beauty moments, such as Florence Griffith Joyner's smokey eye and red lip at Seoul 1988 or Naomi Osaka's red braids at Tokyo 2020.
This year, too, there were standout beauty moments that captured our hearts—from striking nail art designs to bold eye looks. They were a highlight in the sporting arena, inspiring beauty lovers (like us) across the globe.
A little touch-up goes a long way
Simone Biles, the reigning GOAT of gymnastics, has added two more gold medals to her collection at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, all while maintaining her makeup base.
Her secret to keeping her makeup intact, even under the pressure of the global stage, is not so secret after all. The cameras caught her applying a pressed setting powder just moments before her routine. We adore a queen who doesn’t gatekeep her beauty secrets.
Medal-worthy eyes
The gymnasts from across the world not only served us their gravity-defying moves, but also brought their A-game in beauty.
Rebeca Andrade, already a proud owner of three medals in this Olympics, was seen with blue-gold glitter liner, a look as arresting as her performance.
Speaking of that, Jordan Chiles clearly got the memo on bold, vibrant hues. She had a striking white liner adorning her crease and making her eyes pop with a playful, fierce energy.
All about the bling
Rhinestones didn’t just dazzle on athletes’ eyes and nails—they also graced their teeth for that extra sparkle. Shirine Boukli, with a carefully embellished smile, claimed bronze in Judo. Let’s just say, her medal wasn’t the only thing shining that day.
Flags, but make it nail art
What better way to flaunt that you’re a nation’s pride than with a manicure? Flag nails were a standout trend, with athletes showcasing their patriotism in the most extravagant way possible.
Leading the charge was Sha’Carri Richardson, who ruled the 100m track not just with her lightning-fast legs but also with her stunning acrylics. “Nail art is based on what mood I’m in,” she shared in an interview before. “What am I bringing to the track that day? I let my nails express that as well.” Her coffin-shaped nails featured alternating American flag designs that were nothing short of spectacular.
The flag nail trend didn’t stop there. Ukrainian saber fencer Olga Kharlan came through with her yellow and blue manicure—a vivid tribute to her homeland.
Let's not forget our Indian pride, Manika Batra, the table tennis sensation, proudly sporting the Indian flag on her index finger and the iconic Olympic rings on her ring finger.
On to some fun manis
This year’s Olympics are proof that men are stepping up their nail game with some can’t-miss manicures. American track star Noah Lyles, fresh off his gold medal win, showed up with ‘Icon’ emblazoned across his nails in a bold blue, against a pristine white base.
While some athletes embraced maximalism, others opted for a subtlety. Zoe Verge-Depre’s nails shone during Switzerland’s beach volleyball match against Canada. Her milky manicure featured a nude base that was graced with black, hand-painted Olympic rings.
Gymnast Sunisa Lee, the first American woman to win two medals in a single Olympic event, showcased a French mani look with press-ons—that proved that an Olympic-worthy mani doesn’t require hours at the salon.
Hair for the business
As the 2024 Olympic Games lit up Paris, The US soccer sensation Trinity Rodman brought her best self both on and off the field with an enviable display of French curl braids. Rodman’s dual-toned pink extensions blended with her natural hair, braided halfway before cascading into loose curls.
For the match against Zambia, she opted for a chic, low ponytail, secured with a sleek black hair tie. Against Germany, she pulled her braids up into a high ponytail. But it was her latest match against Australia where she truly embraced the Parisian vibe and weaved her French curls into intricate braids.
On the other side of the hair style spectrum, fencing champion Miles Chamley-Watson continued to set trends with his impeccable grooming. He sported a clean top fade, adorned with his signature coils. Known for his experimental yet easy approach to hair, Miles exemplified the modern athlete who’s as dedicated to their style as they are to their sport.
Tira recommends:
M.A.C Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation – NC42
Lakme Unreal Precision Liquid Eye Liner - Shimmer Bronze
L.A. Girl Glide Gel Liner White
Nails Our Way French 'Em Up French Manicure Kit
Nails Our Way Gel Well Nail Enamel Perfect Love Combo
Nails On Board Handmade Holographic Press On Gel Nails - Chocolate Nude
Paradyes Semi-Permanent Classic Hair Color Jar - Carola Pink
Vega Men 9-in-1 Multi-Grooming Set with Beard/Hair Trimmer, Nose Trimmer & Body Groomer And Shaver
Image credits: Instagram/@nojo18
