Chisel creates new film to mark unveiling of R.M.Williams and Paralympics Australia’s ceremonial uniforms for Paris 2024 Paralympics

R.M.Williams and Paralympics Australia have unveiled the official ceremonial uniforms for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, celebrating 100 days until the beginning of the Games. Launched at Australian Fashion Week, the uniforms celebrate the unique Australian spirit of both R.M.Williams and the incredible Paralympians who will wear them in August.

A short film made by indie creative production company Chisel, kicked off the event when an off-screen director asked the athletes “How would you like to be represented in this R.M.Williams uniform launch?” Featuring four Paralympic athletes Shae Graham, Col Pearse, Jaryd Clifford & Al Viney the film, is an authentic mini-documentary that unpacks Paralympic representation and the meaning behind the uniforms.

Says Zak Kaczmarek, creative director at Chisel: “It was brilliant to get to know some of these incredible athletes and hear from them directly about how they want to be represented, both in wearing the beautiful and functional R.M.Williams apparel and in how they are portrayed in the media.”

This collaboration marks the eighth consecutive Paralympic Games for which R.M.Williams  has crafted ceremonial uniforms. The Paralympic team worked closely with R.M.Williams design team to provide essential insights on accessibility and develop a range of thoughtful modifications. The result is a bespoke collection, crafted to inspire confidence as the team enters the global spotlight.

Says Paul Grosmann, chief executive officer: “R.M.Williams was founded on the premise of personal connection with our customers, understanding their lifestyles and crafting beautiful products that cater to their needs. We’re proud to continue that legacy today and send Australia’s Paralympians off to Paris in uniforms that they can feel comfortable and confident in.”

Accessibility features include push studs in place of buttons, allowing the wearer to easily button up or down with minimal contact. Elasticated waistbands have been added to shorts and chinos for a closer, more comforting fit, and the addition of an easy zip closure to the brand’s popular Surry Sneaker negates the use of traditional laces.

Says Kate McLoughlin, Australian Paralympic Team Chef de Mission: “We’re excited by these thoughtfully crafted designs that ensures accessibility for each Paralympian. When our Australian Paralympic Team marches down the Champs Elysses and into the Opening Ceremony at the Place de la Concorde they will do it with pride in their R.M.Williams uniform.”

The uniforms balance classic Australian style with an earthy take on the green and gold palette, in homage to the Australian landscape. Mix-and-match separates are joined by Australian made accessories, including premium socks crafted by Humphrey Law, an Akubra hat and a leather belt, handcrafted at the R.M.Williams workshop in Adelaide.

The uniforms also feature ‘The Journey’, an artwork by indigenous artist Rheanna Lotter, a proud Yuin woman and founder of the aboriginal art collective Ngandabaa. The artwork has featured in every Paralympic uniform since its introduction in 2016 and features eight circles to represent the Australian states and territories, tracks to represents the connection between the Paralympians, and boomerangs to represent challenges overcome in the journey to the Games.

Says Rachel Allen, chief design and product officer: “The collection is designed to support our incredible Paralympians and ensure they can represent our country with ease, comfort, and confidence. The uniform designs represent what makes the Australian team unique and bring together the spirit and grit of the team, and of Australia.”

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will take place from 28 August to 8 September. Australia’s Paralympians can be seen wearing their R.M.Williams ceremonial uniforms at both the opening and closing ceremonies, in addition to formal Paralympic events associated with the Games.

Paralympics Australia, Partnerships: Emma Sweet
Paralympics Australia, GM Brand, Marketing & Digital: Brendon Harrington
R.M. Williams, Chief Marketing Officer: Kai Tunley
R.M. Williams, Head of Marketing: Danielle McCarthy
R.M. Williams, Brand & Media Manager: Jess Beckett
R.M Williams, Content Manager: James Coomer

Production Company: Chisel
Executive Producer: Pat Sidoti
Creative Director: Zak Kaczmarek
Directors: Kids of Bill
Senior Producer: Grace Hawkins
Director of Photography: Gary Morris
Editor: Ben Bowles
Stills: Josh Geelen

PR Agency: Catinella

Stills Photographer: Esteban Latessa