Popular 80s Workout Styles
Diy 80’s workout costume – The 1980s witnessed a fitness boom, fueled by the rise of aerobics, the burgeoning popularity of weight training, and the infectious energy of dance-based workouts. This era not only saw significant changes in fitness routines but also a distinct and highly memorable evolution in workout fashion. The styles reflected the decade’s bold aesthetic, often incorporating vibrant colors, geometric patterns, and a generally high-energy look.
Aerobics Fashion
Aerobics, spearheaded by fitness icons like Jane Fonda, became a national phenomenon in the 80s. The clothing choices reflected the high-impact nature of the workouts and the desire for both functionality and style. Key items included leotards, often brightly colored and sometimes featuring intricate designs or cutouts. Leg warmers provided both warmth and a fashionable touch, while headbands kept hair out of the face and added a sporty flair.
Sweatbands were essential for wicking away perspiration, and they came in a dazzling array of colors and patterns. Think vibrant pink, electric blue, and neon yellow – the brighter, the better! Jane Fonda’s workout videos showcased this style perfectly, with her often sporting leotards paired with leg warmers and headbands, creating a look that was both practical and iconic.
Weightlifting Fashion
While aerobics emphasized bright colors and form-fitting styles, 80s weightlifting fashion took a slightly different approach. Functionality remained paramount, but the aesthetic leaned towards a more practical and less flamboyant look compared to aerobics attire. This didn’t mean it lacked style, however. Key items included comfortable, loose-fitting t-shirts and shorts, often in muted tones or featuring bold graphic designs.
Sweatpants were also popular, offering comfort and flexibility during intense lifting sessions. Weight belts provided support and were often worn by serious lifters. While not as visually striking as aerobics wear, the clothing reflected a focus on practicality and strength. Think of images from bodybuilding competitions of the era; the clothing was functional but still expressed a powerful image.
Dance Workout Fashion
Dance workouts, whether it be jazzercise or other forms of rhythmic exercise, blended the energy of aerobics with the expressive freedom of dance. The resulting fashion choices were a stylish combination of both. Leotards remained popular, but they often featured more elaborate designs and cuts than those seen in aerobics. Similarly, leg warmers and headbands were prevalent, but the colors and patterns were often bolder and more striking.
Brightly colored tights and dance shorts added to the energetic aesthetic. Popular films and music videos featuring dance scenes from the 80s often showcase this style, with dancers sporting vibrant outfits that reflected the rhythm and movement of the choreography.
Comparison of 80s Workout Styles
| Style Name | Key Clothing Items | Typical Footwear | Overall Aesthetic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerobics | Leotards, leg warmers, headbands, sweatbands | Aerobic shoes, often brightly colored | Bright, vibrant colors; form-fitting; energetic |
| Weightlifting | Loose-fitting t-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, weight belts | Weightlifting shoes or sneakers | Practical; comfortable; often muted colors or bold graphics |
| Dance Workout | Leotards, tights, dance shorts, leg warmers, headbands | Dance shoes or sneakers | Expressive; vibrant colors; often incorporates elaborate designs |
Accessorizing an 80s Workout Costume
Accessorizing is key to perfecting your 80s workout look. The right accessories can transform a simple leotard and leggings into a true time capsule of fitness fashion. Think bold colors, vibrant patterns, and plenty of playful details. Let’s dive into the essential elements.
Wristbands and Fingerless Gloves
Wristbands and fingerless gloves were ubiquitous in 80s workout attire. They added a pop of color and a touch of athletic flair. To create DIY versions, use stretchy fabrics like lycra or cotton jersey. Cut strips of fabric approximately 4-6 inches wide and long enough to comfortably wrap around your wrist or hand. For wristbands, simply sew the ends together, leaving a slight overlap for a snug fit.
For fingerless gloves, cut a hand-shaped pattern, leaving the fingers open. Sew the edges together, ensuring a comfortable fit. Experiment with different colors and patterns to create a truly 80s vibe. Consider using neon colors or bold prints to achieve that iconic look. Adding a contrasting stitch can also enhance the visual appeal.
Socks and Leg Warmers
Brightly colored socks, often with stripes or patterns, were a staple of 80s workout fashion. Leg warmers, typically made from knit fabric, provided both warmth and style. DIY leg warmers are easy to make using leftover fabric from your costume or by purchasing inexpensive knit fabric from a craft store. Cut long strips of fabric, approximately 10-12 inches wide and long enough to reach from your ankles to just below your knees.
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Get creative and have fun with it!
Sew the edges together to create a tube. You can also create ribbed leg warmers by using a ribbed knit fabric. For socks, you can use brightly colored knit fabric and follow a simple sock pattern or purchase plain socks and embellish them with fabric paint or iron-on transfers.
Hair Accessories
Scrunchies and headbands were essential hair accessories in the 80s. Scrunchies, typically made from stretchy fabric, provided a comfortable and stylish way to tie up hair. To make your own scrunchies, cut a strip of fabric approximately 2-3 inches wide and long enough to comfortably wrap around your hair twice. Sew the ends together, creating a loop. Then, gather a smaller piece of fabric (about 2 inches wide and 4 inches long) and sew it to one end of the loop, creating a gathered section.
Headbands can be created from similar stretchy fabrics, or you can even use a simple strip of fabric wrapped and secured with a knot or small safety pin. Choose bold colors and patterns that complement your outfit.
Texture and Material Combinations
The 80s were all about bold color combinations and playful textures. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Pair shiny lycra with soft cotton, or combine a textured knit fabric with a smooth nylon. For instance, a neon pink lycra wristband paired with a pastel blue cotton headband would be a perfect example of this style. The contrast in textures and colors adds visual interest and reinforces the iconic 80s aesthetic.
Remember, the more vibrant and playful, the better!
Illustrative Examples of DIY 80s Workout Costumes: Diy 80’s Workout Costume
Crafting your own 80s workout costume is a fun and rewarding project. By carefully selecting materials and paying attention to detail, you can create a truly authentic and stylish look. The following examples demonstrate how to achieve different 80s workout aesthetics through DIY methods.
Aerobics Queen Costume
This costume embodies the vibrant energy of 80s aerobics. The key is bright colors and a high-impact silhouette.The materials needed include a vibrant leotard (consider bright pink, turquoise, or neon yellow), leg warmers in a coordinating or contrasting color, and a headband. You can find inexpensive leotards at thrift stores or online marketplaces. Leg warmers can be made from stretchy fabric scraps or purchased readily.
A simple headband can be crafted from a stretchy fabric strip or purchased pre-made.Construction involves minimal sewing. If using a pre-made leotard, no alterations may be needed. Homemade leg warmers can be created by cutting fabric strips, sewing the edges, and then turning them inside out. The headband requires simple stitching or knotting to create a loop.The final appearance is a brightly colored leotard, paired with coordinating or contrasting leg warmers, and a headband.
The silhouette is form-fitting and emphasizes the body’s movement. Key design elements include the bright colors, the leg warmers, and the headband, all hallmarks of the 80s aerobics aesthetic.
Jazzercise Diva Costume, Diy 80’s workout costume
This costume reflects the fluidity and grace of Jazzercise. It emphasizes comfort and movement, with a slightly more relaxed fit than the aerobics costume.Materials include a comfortable, loose-fitting tank top or t-shirt (consider pastel colors or bold prints), high-waisted leggings or bike shorts, and a pair of fingerless gloves. The tank top or t-shirt can be found at thrift stores or repurposed from existing clothing.
Leggings or bike shorts can be purchased new or found at thrift stores. Fingerless gloves can be easily purchased or even crafted from old gloves by cutting off the fingertips.Construction primarily involves repurposing existing clothing. Minimal sewing may be needed, depending on whether alterations are required to fit the tank top or t-shirt.The final appearance is a comfortable, relaxed-fit outfit.
The silhouette is less form-fitting than the aerobics costume, allowing for greater freedom of movement. Key design elements include the loose-fitting top, high-waisted bottoms, and fingerless gloves, creating a classic Jazzercise look.
Bodybuilding Champion Costume
This costume captures the powerful physique and confident attitude of 80s bodybuilding. It showcases the muscular build and emphasizes strength.Materials include a pair of brightly colored shorts (think bold colors and possibly a side stripe detail), a sleeveless muscle shirt or tank top, and weightlifting gloves. The shorts can be purchased new or found at thrift stores. A muscle shirt can be easily found at sporting goods stores or repurposed from existing clothing.
Weightlifting gloves can be purchased at sporting goods stores.Construction is simple, primarily involving selecting appropriate clothing items. Minimal alterations might be needed to ensure a proper fit.The final appearance is a confident and powerful look. The silhouette is fitted to showcase the physique. Key design elements include the short shorts, the sleeveless top, and the weightlifting gloves, creating a strong and determined image that reflects the 80s bodybuilding aesthetic.
Top FAQs
What materials are best for making DIY 80s leg warmers?
Stretchy fabrics like lycra, cotton blends, or even old t-shirts work well. Consider using materials with a bit of sheen for an authentic 80s look.
How can I add embellishments to my DIY headband?
Use fabric scraps, sequins, rhinestones, or even colorful ribbons to add sparkle and personality. Get creative and let your 80s inspiration shine!
Where can I find 80s-inspired patterns for customizing a sweatshirt?
Search online for free printable 80s patterns or create your own using stencils and fabric paint. Geometric shapes, bold lines, and neon colors are key.
Can I use modern athletic wear as a base for my costume?
Yes! Modern leggings or a simple sweatshirt can easily be customized with 80s-inspired embellishments and accessories to achieve the desired look.
