Leotards have changed almost as much as the sport of gymnastics has changed since the first competition in 1936. When the sport first allowed women to compete, leotards were very simple and offered more coverage. Now, they are bright, sparkly, and feature high cuts to elongate gymnasts’ legs. Keep reading to learn more about the history of Olympic gymnastics leotards!
The 1930s and 1940s
In the 1930s and 1940s, at the beginning of women’s gymnastics competitions at the Olympics, leotards were very plain. They were lower cut around the thighs, offering the most coverage. They weren’t overly tight-fitted either!
The 1950s
During the 1950s, leotards started to slim down, becoming more tight-fitting. Where lighter colors like simple shades of white were previously the norm, darker colors started to gain popularity during this time.
The 1960s
It was during the 1960s that leotards became higher cut, closely resembling the flattering silhouettes many gymnasts sport today. Additionally, leotard designers became more creative with various shapes and designs. Gymnasts began wearing leotards with longer sleeves, much like many popular looks you see on Olympians today. The history of Olympic gymnastics leotards is deeply rooted in every competition.
The 1970s
With the sudden popularity of movies like Flashdance and Jane Fonda’s workout videos, many female gymnasts wanted their leotards to be more fun. As a result, leotards took on shapes and styles influenced by pop culture. Additionally, during world competitions such as the Olympics, leotards started to be designed with the colors of the gymnasts’ countries. For example, Team USA began sporting very patriotic leotards during this time.
The 1980s and 1990s
At this point, leotard designers were fully embracing color. Leotards of the 1980s were bright and full of fun, exciting patterns. As the history of Olympic gymnastics outfits goes, this remained the trend for quite some time. Even today, with new construction techniques offering an overwhelming array of options, you’ll still see plenty of bright and patterned looks during training and competitions.
The 2000s
While leotards stayed bright and fun after the 1980s, designers stepped it up a notch in the 2000s with the addition of sparkles and crystals. Starting around 2004, these new styles had gymnasts glittering as they flipped and vaulted, and sparkles are still incredibly popular today.
The 2010s
The 2010s were marked by the utilization of new fabrics for leotards, like mesh. In 2012, leotards were incorporating hologram fabrics. Additionally, by 2016, leotards were exceedingly sparkly.
Today
It’s fascinating to examine how gymnastics leotards have evolved throughout the years to better reflect the needs and desires of gymnasts, as well as follow pop culture trends. Moreover, it’s fun to see gymnasts take the initiative to start new trends. For example, in 2020, German gymnasts may have started a new trend with full-body leotards for competitions. While we know the history of Olympic leotards, the future of gymnastics fashion is an unpredictable space. It’s exciting to watch who is trailblazing the way forward.
Make Your Own Leotard
Special-order leotards have become wildly popular now too. You can design your dream competition leotard from brands that have also outfitted Olympians, World Champions, university teams, and more. Pick and choose your favorite details throughout history and put them together to create your perfect leotard in a flattering silhouette.
