| One of the key reasons for the recent upsurge in popularity of leotards has been the endorsement by Madonna of the outfit. In numerous music videos and tours, the famous singer has been proudly wearing the outfit and showing that woman of any age can manage to pull off the look. Okay, not many women of Madonna’s age have the time or ability to devote so much of their time to achieving a fantastically fit body but that does not detract from the star quality that has now been attached to the look. It has always been a fantastic piece of clothing for exercise but with the added attraction of celebrity endorsement, it is fair to say that it is back on the radar for many people nowadays.
However, even without celebrities being pictured in the outfit, there has been a consistency to the appeal of leotards, ever since they were first recognised as being worn by Jules Leotard. A great number of sporting activities and competitions feature the use of leotards as the main uniform and these include figure skating, many forms of modern dance, ballet and gymnastics. The range of activities that require the use of the outfit ensures that there is production for both children and adults meaning that a full range of size, shapes and colours are available to choose from. The 1970s and 80s were undoubtedly the high point for this range of clothing but demand still exists to this day for the product.
The material used in modern leotards are far more suited to the rigours of physical exercise and exertion that is undertaken whilst wearing them, ensuring comfort for the wearer. The overall shape of the outfit may not have altered much in the past decade but the material is of a far more durable quality and also allows the wearers skin to breathe more easily. With the range of dancing and moving associated with this range of clothing placing a lot of strain, not only on the wearer but on the outfit themselves, any gymnast or dancer needs to have full confidence in their outfit.
As leotards are worn by many youngsters, the design and patterns of the outfits are now taking a bigger awareness of this market. This has led to an explosion in the shades and patterns available on the outfits, helping the wearer stand out from the crowd and create their own stamp of individuality. Of course, the classic all one colour outfit is still the preferred choice for many competing athletes and these are still available in abundance. So no matter what is the preferred look or style, there will be something to suit even the most selective consumers.
Fashions come and go but the enduring popularity of this popular form of leisure wear will always remain, regardless of what celebrities are wearing or not. The large range of sporting activities that facilitate the use of this line of clothing guarantees that as long as people like to dance and move, there will always be a production of leotards. |
