It’s the most wonderful time of the year as the 2024 NC women’s gymnastics season is officially here. As teams move through the top of the season, fans are reviewing the who, what and when of the 2024 season. The only thing left to discuss is the “wear” so hold onto your scrunchies because we’re looking back at four decades of leotard fashion.
The 1980s: Bold colors, stripes and fitness chic
The implementation of Title IX throughout the ’70s increased opportunities for female student-athletes and sports, including women’s gymnastics. Expanded program budgets meant pragmatism and functionality were no longer the determining factors when choosing leotards. By the 1983 NCAA championship, teams could (and did) incorporate the excess and extravagance that characterized 1980s fashion into their designs: think bright, bold colors, geometric patterns and — most importantly — Spandex.
Iconic
Georgia’s 1989 championship leotard has held up remarkably well compared to most designs from this era. It did so well that the Gymdogs unveiled an updated (i.e., bedazzled) version 30 years later.
Controversial
Even for 1984, this neon plaid number from Utah feels like a throwback to the ’70s. It’s hard to be simultaneously bold and…
