Exercise is an integral part of our daily life. With the constant changes in fashion trends, sportswear has not remained unaffected. Join us on a journey through the decades and you will be amazed at the evolution and changes in sportswear fashion .

The Story of Sportswear

The evolution of sportswear over time is an exciting journey influenced by the constant changes in fitness and fashion trends as well as changing gender roles. From restrictive corsets and heavy skirts, to breaking free with more practical and comfortable clothing, and today with stylish and functional sportswear that empowers women and pushes them to pursue their goals with confidence and perseverance. The evolution of sportswear is characterized by continuous innovation, adaptation and creativity.

The 1920s - The Era of Reform

The 1920s was a transformative decade, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties or Jazz Age. In many ways, this period marked a shift from the past, with significant cultural and social changes taking place. During this period, women embraced new forms of freedom, challenging traditional gender roles and social norms.

One way women expressed their independence was through fashion. The restrictive clothing of the past, such as corsets and long skirts, was replaced by looser, more comfortable clothing. The iconic flapper dress, characterized by its straight line and knee-length hem, became a symbol of the era. It was made of light materials, such as chiffon and silk, which allowed more movement and freedom.

sequined dresses , women began wearing shorter skirts and sleeveless tops for their sports, such as dancing, swimming, and tennis. This marked a clear departure from the modest clothing of the past, designed to hide women's bodies. Instead, women now celebrated their bodies and reveled in their ability to move freely.

In general the fashion of the 1920s was a time of significant change in the role and expectations of women. Women were no longer content to play a passive role, but preferred to take control of their own lives. Through their dress, they were able to express their freedom and independence, paving the way for the feminist movements of the following decades.

The 1930s - The Jumpsuit Trend

In the 1930s the trend towards more comfortable and functional clothing continued, but new styles and lines were added. One of the notable additions to women's wardrobes during this period was the jumpsuit, which was suitable to be worn in a range of sporting activities, from daily exercise to outdoor activities.

Jumpsuits were usually made from lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen, which allowed for ease of movement, had a zip closure that made it easy to put on, and often had a belt at the waist to flatter the figure.

The jumpsuit quickly gained popularity among the female audience looking for practical, yet stylish clothing options. It was seen as a versatile piece that could be worn on many different occasions. For more casual looks, the jumpsuit was worn with sandals or sneakers, while for more formal events, jewelry and heels would be added.

While overalls were originally designed for men, they quickly became popular among women who valued practicality and comfort without compromising on style. By wearing the jumpsuit, women challenged traditional notions of femininity and expressed their desire for clothing that was both functional and fashionable.

The jumpsuit was an important addition to the fashion trend during the 1930s while its popularity continued to spread in the following decades.

The 1940s - The War Years

The 1940s brought the war and created for women new demands and engagement in intense physical work. As a result many women had to exercise to stay fit and able to cope. However, the growing interest in exercise and fitness among the general population is also worth mentioning.

Women's sportswear was functional while also reflecting wider changes in fashion and culture. The newfound independence and new demands created were reflected in the clothing style of the time, which was more practical and utilitarian than the designs of the past.

Clothing options included shorts, pants, and sleeveless tops, which were made from lightweight fabrics such as cotton or rayon . These materials breathe and allow freedom of movement, making them ideal for activities such as jogging, aerobics and dancing.

The 1950s - The Rise of Sportswear

During the 1950s sportswear became a popular trend. The growing interest in fitness and recreational activities was evident and as a result women began to look for clothing that was functional and fashionable, with an emphasis on comfort and ease of movement.

During the 1950s, fitted tops and shorts made of stretch fabric appeared. These garments were designed to hug the body and provide support and flexibility during exercise. They were often made from materials such as spandex , which allowed a greater range of motion and helped prevent chafing and pressure.

The iconic sweatshirt and jumpsuit is another trademark of the period. Originally designed as sportswear for men, they quickly became popular among women who valued practicality and comfort. These garments were made of soft, comfortable materials such as cotton or fleece , and had an elastic waistband and cuffs for a comfortable fit.

As well as being functional, sportswear at the time was inspired by wider changes in fashion and culture. The post-war period was a time of great optimism and prosperity, with an emphasis on leisure and relaxation. This was reflected in the rise in popularity of sports such as tennis, golf and swimming, as well as the appearance of clothing styles associated with these activities.

The 1960s - The Age of Revolution

The 1960s was a decade of significant social change, marked by a growing sense of liberation and experimentation. Women's fashion reflected these changes, with an emphasis on bold colors, prints and patterns. This was also true of sportswear, which became more lively and expressive during this period.

A trademark of the 1960s was the leotard . This bodysuit was designed to fit the female figure perfectly as it was completely stretchy, allowing for ease of movement during exercise. Leotards were made from stretchy materials such as nylon or Lycra , and came in a range of colors and prints . They were usually worn with tights or leggings, which provided extra support and coverage.

Tights and leggings also became a popular trend during the 1960s. These garments were made from a variety of materials, including cotton, nylon, and polyester, and often featured bold prints and patterns such as stripes, polka dots , and geometric shapes.

In addition to being more colorful and eye-catching, women's sportswear of the period reflected women's growing interest in fitness, physical well-being and self-expression . This was a decade marked by the rise of aerobics and other forms of exercise.

The 1970s - The Era of Aerobics

The 1970s were characterized by a strong interest in fitness and exercise, and this was reflected in the sportswear of the time. As aerobics and other forms of group exercise became more popular, women looked for clothing that was both fashionable and functional, with an emphasis on comfort and ease of movement.

Leotard continued to play while ribbons became a must have training accessories, which were often made of stretchy materials, such as terrycloth , and designed to keep sweat and hair away from the face. Ribbons came in a range of colors and patterns and were worn as fashion statement but also for practical reasons.

However, the most iconic sports accessory of the era was the leggings, designed to be worn over leggings or tights and provide warmth and comfort during exercise. Leggings came in a range of colors and styles and quickly became a popular fashion accessory both in and out of the gym.

The 1980s - The Spandex Decade

The 1980s was a decade marked by excess and excess, and this was largely reflected in the women's sportswear of the era. As fitness and exercise continued to gain popularity, sportswear became tighter and flashier, with an emphasis on bold colors and striking designs.

Leotards continued to be a big trend of the time, while tights and high-waisted shorts also became popular during the training craze. These garments were designed to be form-fitting and stretchy, allowing for ease of movement during exercise. High shorts in particular were often worn with leggings or over tights, creating a layered look that was both functional and fashionable.

The most controversial piece of 1980s training fashion, however, was the thong Leotard . This dress had a high - cut design on the sides and a thong back and was designed to be both revealing and flattering. Although controversial at the time, the thong leotard quickly became a fashion statement , worn by celebrities and fitness enthusiasts alike.

The 1990s - The Casual Era

The 1990s marked a major shift in fashion trends, with the rise of casual wear as a popular trend. Women's sportswear of the time became more relaxed and comfortable, with an emphasis on practicality and ease of movement.

Oversized t-shirts were a staple of 1990s athleisure fashion, worn with leggings or sweatpants for a comfortable, casual look . Their material was often soft, breathable and featured graphic designs or slogans. Tracksuits were becoming increasingly popular, with an emphasis on relaxed, comfortable cuts while being tied at the waist with a drawstring .

Another iconic piece of sportswear in the 1990s was the sports bra. This garment was designed to provide support and comfort during exercise and was often worn alone or under a loose top. Sports bras were designed in a range of styles and colors and were made from stretchy materials that breathed and allowed for ease of movement.

Leggings also remained a popular choice with an emphasis on stretchy designs that fit perfectly on every body type when paired with loose tops or crops top .

Sportswear of the 1990s deviated from the gaudy styles of the 1980s by emphasizing comfort and practicality.

The 2000s - The age of technology

The advent of technology and innovation in apparel design in the 2000s brought significant changes to sportswear. Interest shifted to fabrics that could improve performance as well as comfort during sport.

One of the key technological developments of this period was the invention of moisture wicking fabric. This specialized fabric was designed to wick away sweat, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable during intense workouts. These fabrics were often used in tops and leggings and were particularly popular in sports such as running and cycling.

Another key development during the 2000s was the rise of compression clothing. These garments were designed to support the muscles during exercise, increasing blood flow and reducing the risk of injury. Compression garments also helped improve recovery time after exercise by reducing muscle soreness and stiffness. These garments were often made of stretchy, breathable materials and worn as tops, leggings, or shorts.

Seamless leggings were still a popular trend during this period. These leggings were designed to be comfortable and functional, with construction that minimized chafing and irritation during exercise. These leggings were often made from stretchy, moisture-wicking fabrics and were worn for a variety of athletic activities, from yoga to weightlifting.

The big trend of the time was yoga pants. This versatile garment was designed to be both comfortable and stylish, with stretchy construction to hug the body in all the right places. Yoga pants were often made of moisture-wicking fabric and came in a range of colors and styles, from plain black leggings to bold patterns and colors.

The decade of 2010 - The Rise of Athleisure

In 2010 the rise of sportswear blurred the line between sportswear and everyday fashion. Women's sportswear was designed to be functional and fashionable, allowing women to wear it not only to the gym but also to other activities.

One of the key fashion trends of the period was the popularity of leggings. Leggings have become a staple in many women's wardrobes, with a range of styles and colors available to suit every taste. Leggings were often made of moisture-wicking fabric and featured elastic, comfortable waistbands for maximum comfort during exercise.

Sports bras also continued to be a workout staple throughout the 2010s.

The crops top appeared in the 2010s and became a popular trend. These tops were designed to be functional and stylish, with a range of styles and colors available to suit every taste. The crops tops were often made of moisture-wicking fabric and had a comfortable, stretchy construction.

Leggings with mesh detailing was one of the most iconic legging styles of 2010. These leggings featured mesh detailing in strategic areas to allow the body to breathe better, such as the calves or thighs while helping to regulate body temperature and improve airflow during exercise. These leggings were often worn for a variety of activities, from yoga to running, and were available in a range of styles and colors.

Sportswear of this period focused on fashion and style as well as functionality and performance.

2020s - What should we expect?

Today, sportswear is designed to be functional and fashionable, with an emphasis on performance and style. They come in a wide range of colors, styles and materials, from sweat-wicking fabrics to compression garments. Sportswear has not only influenced the world of fitness , but has also become an important part of modern fashion. With their practical yet stylish designs, they allow women to look and feel beautiful while exercising.

The future of sportswear will continue to be both fashionable and functional. As technology advances, improved fabric features such as sweat wicking, UV protection and antibacterial properties are becoming more commonplace. This trend is set to continue, with the development of even more innovative materials and designs.

In terms of style, there is likely to be a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly materials as there is a growing demand for ethical fashion . In addition, inclusion and diversity are now two very important concepts in the fashion industry and we may see a wider range of sizes, styles and colors in sportswear .

The line between sportswear and everyday wear is becoming increasingly blurred and we may see more crossover pieces that can be worn both to the gym and for a Sunday stroll. The future of sportswear looks exciting, with an emphasis on style as well as functionality, sustainability and inclusivity.