Leotard Design
Leotards are designed with the specific needs that gymnasts have in mind. The functional purpose of the leotard is to help the gymnasts be more aerodynamic, move more freely and also prevent the gymnasts from getting clothing caught in equipment. However, they also give gymnasts confidence when performing and allow them to express their personality. Because of this, it is very clear that the design of a leotard have evolved into a mixture between function and fashion.
Leotards are made from lightweight elastic materials that do not restrict the gymnast's movements. The first leotards were made from cotton and nylon, but modern leotards are generally made from Lycra or spandex. They come in a variety of colors and may include decorative items. Embellishments like sparkles, studs, rhinestones, shimmer and glitter provide a gymnast with several options. Different types of straps offer further stylistic possibilities. These include racerback, criss cross and spaghetti strap designs. Competition leotards can be custom made by leotard manufacturers. Everything from neckline shape, the sleeve length, and the hip cut can be altered. Also, gyms often choose to have their team name embroidered somewhere on the leotard.
Just like the fashion world, trends can often be seen in the gymnastics world. And leotard trends often mimic some of the popular trends in the fashion world. Take a look at some of current trends here.
Leotards are made from lightweight elastic materials that do not restrict the gymnast's movements. The first leotards were made from cotton and nylon, but modern leotards are generally made from Lycra or spandex. They come in a variety of colors and may include decorative items. Embellishments like sparkles, studs, rhinestones, shimmer and glitter provide a gymnast with several options. Different types of straps offer further stylistic possibilities. These include racerback, criss cross and spaghetti strap designs. Competition leotards can be custom made by leotard manufacturers. Everything from neckline shape, the sleeve length, and the hip cut can be altered. Also, gyms often choose to have their team name embroidered somewhere on the leotard.
Just like the fashion world, trends can often be seen in the gymnastics world. And leotard trends often mimic some of the popular trends in the fashion world. Take a look at some of current trends here.