The 80s aerobics outfit is one of the most iconic looks of the decade. The 1980s were a wild time for fashion. The decade brought us such wonders as legwarmers, sweatbands, and neon colors galore. And with the rise in popularity of health and fitness, so came an explosion for 80s workout fashion that took the country by storm.
When we think of 80s aerobics, the icon that comes to mind is undoubtedly Jane Fonda. During the 80s her workout videos helped millions get into shape, and it also popularized what most will recognize as 80s aerobics fashion.
While most of us may think of 80s fitness fashion as sometimes being over the top, it can be fun to dress up like an 80s aerobics instructor every once in a while for kicks! So if you’re looking to put together a great 80s workout outfit, read on to find out what you’ll need!
80s Aerobics Outfit
Whether it be your next 80s themed party, Halloween, or even daring to be bold at your local gym, a great 80s aerobics outfit is a great way to get fit while standing out from the crowd!
So what exactly will you need to put together this iconic 80s look? Here’s our recommendations that we think you’ll love:
1. Leotards
The signature piece of any Jane Fonda aerobics outfit is the leotard. This was usually a one-piece bodysuit that was made of spandex that came in a wide variety of colors.
If you were fit the 80s leotard was a great way to show off your body. It can be used when you’re doing aerobics, but it’s also perfect for the gym and any other activity. Typically they were paired with some spandex leggings or biker shorts if you preferred, and it was the piece of fashion that most think about when we remember the 80s fitness craze.
2. Leggings
To compliment your leotard a great pair of leggings are a must-have item for any 80s aerobics outfit. They were form-fitting and a great way to show off your body, your personality, and your favorite colors.
Leggings are tight, stretchy pants that can be worn alone or as a layer under a skirt or shorts. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can mix and match to almost any outfit you can think of. You can find leggings anywhere from high-end department stores to discount shops like Walmart!
3. Bright Neon Colors
There’s no better way to show off your 80s aerobics outfit than with bright neon colors. Neon is still a popular trend today, and it was even more popular back then. Neon is the perfect way to express your love of the 80s while wearing an aerobics outfit!
Neon will have you looking like an 80s goddess, whether you’re wearing a leotard or just a pair of legwarmers! The neon color palette includes purples, blues, greens, pinks, and yellows—all great for showing off when it comes to aerobics outfits.
4. Legwarmers
Legwarmers were an essential 80s accessory. They were worn with leggings or tights, but could be worn alone as well. They came in a variety of materials, including cotton and wool, though acrylic was also a popular choice.
They were typically knee-high with ribbing at the top that could be pulled tight to keep them in place on your legs. Legwarmers were sometimes decorated with patterns and logos as well!
Legwarmers also came in a wide variety of neon colors, which also made them a nice option for those who wanted to add just a little bit more 80s flare to their workout outfits.
5. Headbands And Sweatbands
Sweatbands and headbands are great accessories for an aerobics outfit. They can be worn in many different ways and they come in a variety of colors, materials, and styles.
Sweatbands can be worn around your wrist or even wrapped around your ankle. Headbands come in many colors and can be matched or contrast your sweatbands.
If you’re looking for an aerobics outfit with a little more flair, try pairing your leotard with a pair of legwarmers and some sweatbands! The 80s were all about being flashy, so don’t be afraid to add some color to your workout gear.
6. Hair Accessories
Hair accessories like neon scrunchies are another great way to add some flair to your 80s aerobics outfit. If you’re going to be working up a sweat, you might as well look good doing it! Here are some hair accessory suggestions that will help with that:
- Neon scrunchies
- Bobby pins (great for holding the hair in place)
- Frizz-ease (a frizz-eliminating gel for curly hair)
- Hair spray (to keep flyaways down)
- Hair gel (for those who have straightened their locks)
7. Cropped or Layered T-shirts
Cool and comfy T-shirts were a staple of the 80s aerobics look. They were often cropped or layered, and they were often bright neon colors. T-shirt dresses were also popular at this time.
Crop tops were often worn over leotards for a complimenting look, or they were worn with nothing under them to show off your midsection. Either way it made for a great look, so definitely consider adding a neon crop top to your 80s aerobics outfit.
8. White High Top Sneakers
No 80s aerobics outfit would be complete without some white high top sneakers. Typically they were either reebok shoes or adidas, but any “bulky” white sneaker will do.
Back in the 80s white bulky sneakers were all the rage when it came to aerobics classes, and they were the go-to shoe as anything white was able to easily be matched with just about any workout outfit you put together.
Is The 80s Aerobics Outfit Still Popular?
Though you don’t see the 80s aerobics outfit as much any more, they are still a fashionable choice for the women that are daring enough to wear them. So if you’re feeling bold and adventurous, definitely give the above suggestions a try. They are great functional workout fashion, and we promise you’ll definitely get noticed!
With so many options to choose from, you can create a signature look that’s sure to turn heads at your next aerobics class. So what are you waiting for? Go get yourself an 80s aerobics outfit today!
