Did you know that the leotard was made famous by the French acrobatic performer Jules Léotard (1842–1870)? Léotard invented a tight-fitting garment for men called a maillot that was worn by circus performers, particularly acrobats and “strong men,” in the early 20th century. The word leotard entered the lexicon in 1886.In the 1920s and 1930s, the style of womens leotards influenced the design of bathing suits, and leotards came to be worn by Broadway showgirls. In the 1950s, leotards continued to be worn mainly by stage performers and circus actors.
In the 1970s, the leotard really took off; more colorful and patterned leotards arrived on the scene and were popularly used in ballet, dance and aerobic exercise classes. By the late 1970s, leotards were commonly worn on the street, often with sheer tights, as part of the disco craze. In the 1980s and 90s, leotards were popularly worn as tops with jeans, especially skinny jeans.
Today, leotards continue to be worn by circus performers, acrobats and dancers, as well as gymnasts, athletes, figure skaters and those practicing yoga. They're worn as both practice garments and performance costumes – the sky’s the limit!
