The Art of the Olympic Leotard 2024 Paris Olympics

These shimmering second skins, crafted from spandex and elastic, not only define the aesthetic of USA gymnastics but also serve as a canvas for self-expression and individuality. The modern leotard has certainly evolved along the the sport of gymnastics, itself. Follow along as we take a step back in time, and learn about the evolution of the Leotard.

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The year was 1928. The roaring 20's were still, well... roaring. The flappers were flappin' and the coolest guy you know, was driving a Model-T.

Women were also making their own strides is the world, in many capacities. This includes their first appearances- representing their respective countries- in Artistic Gymnastics at the 1928, Amsterdam Olympic Games.

While the earliest uniforms may exude a vintage charm when contrasted with today's leotards, the comfortable athletic attire remains practical both in the past and present.

1936 Olympics Games

Eight years later, at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, women were repping the two-piece sets. I love a great two piece set, so I'm still rocking with this.

Team USA wore a splash of patriotism with a simple Red, White, and Blue sash at the 1948 London Olympic Games. The one-piece garment- boxy and pleaded, fit to the hip-line with a romper-ish silhouette. Complete with capped sleeves. This leotard is a relic, and I deserves to be in a museum.

Team USA - 1948 London Olympic Games

1952 Olympic

As we delve deeper into the world of 1950s gymnastics, it's clear that romper chic is here to stay.

Great, if you like it- I love it!

This one-piece garment, characterized by its boxy silhouette and low hip design. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its aesthetic charm but also in its practical design.

Soviet Union - 1956 Melbourne Olympics

1956 Olympic Games is where we begin to see the traditional leotard take shape.

The leotards featured 3/4 sleeves, which added a touch of modesty while still allowing flexibility and freedom of movement—a practical choice for the gymnasts navigating their routines on the global stage.

Polina Astakhova, Soviet Union- 1964 Tokyo Olympics

The 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games was a feat in modern achievement. It was the first olympic games to use computer technology to keep scores and statistics.

In 1964, leotards began to feature more refined designs, integrating classic patterns and subtle embellishments that reflected both national pride and individual style.

Though Team USA did not reach the podium, Subsequent Olympic Games saw further innovations in materials and designs, with leotards evolving to meet the demands of modern sports while maintaining their essential blend of functionality and style.

Cathy Rigby - 1972 Olympic Games

Low neck-line,

1984 Olympic Games

Now we're in 1980. Thankfully, we made it here with zero ruffles and zero shoulder pads is sight. But, what these icons did walk out wearing, was nothing less than a proud eagle screech of American patriotism.

This is where we begin to see brands emerge as official sponsors for Team USA. A Reebok label can be seen stitched to the lower-left hip, something that will become routine branding for

1996 Olympic Team

Our beloved 1996 gymnastics Team competed at the Atlanta Olympic games in a design by Reebok.

Reebok certainly took inspiration from the 1984 team, and recreated a similar look, inverting the stars and stripes, but continuing with a simple design.

Keeping it vibrant and patriotic, Team USA wore these leotards designed by Adidas Leotard for the 2008 Beijing Olympic competition.

With a more abstract design

Team USA - 2016 Rio Olympics

One of my peronsal favorites, is the 2016 Rio Olympics leotard. Team USA wore this design by Under Armour,

Simone Biles, Team USA - 2020 Tokyo Olympics

Some styles are making a re-emergance, such as the unitard- Which Team Germany wore to the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Personally, I love these as an option. They look comfortable and wedgie proof, and still enables the judges to view the lines and movement of the competitor. I hope to see more athletes and teams granted this type of uniform as an option. I think this could catch on...

Team Germany - 2020 Tokyo Olympics

TEAM USA UNIFORM PREDICTIONS:

GK Elite released these workout leotards, as well as their designs for the U.S. National team, and are a good indicator of what we can expect our Team USA olympians will be wearing in Paris.