Blindingly bright neon leotards, chunky white sneakers and oh, who could ever forget those iconic track jackets!
Is nostalgia kicking into you? One could say that the roots of athleisure go all the way back to the 90s workout outfit — bold colour choices, funky patterns, and layered workout clothes. These are striking fashion elements usually seen among ladies taking group exercise classes. Group workouts began their popularity in the 1980s and held their momentum into the 1990s. Leotard over tights and statement leggings are among the evident 90s workout attire anyone can easily spot in Jane Fonda’s straight-to-home aerobic class videos and Olivia Newton-John’s hit single “Physical” music video.
These retro styles are fabulously ‘loud’ in contrast with today’s athleisure trends of neutral tones and minimalist designs. Yet it’s fascinating to see the resurgence of these styles from the past. Now, let’s take a closer look into what the female 90’s workout clothes are aside from colourful leotards and statement leggings. We’ve curated a list of popular 90s workout outfits from which you can easily recreate this retro look for your pilates class or morning run!
A Throwback: What Were the 90's Workout Outfits
Tracksuits
Tracksuits were an absolute staple in the 90s workout attire. With comfortable fabrics and relaxed fits, these highly functional pieces give a sporty edge to professional athletes and are commonly worn during competitions. Aside from the athletic field, tracksuits were also associated with hip-hop and pop culture as celebrities like Will Smith and artists like Whitney Houston, Ice T and Tupac Shakur joined this fashion trend. Tracksuits then were considered in high fashion. Highly functional yet stylish with little-to-no effort, this has remained iconic in the fashion industry and inside everybody’s wardrobe. Though tracksuits have evolved and modernised versions have been produced, activewear brands like Kate Galliano’s tracksuit collection still captured the spirit of the 90s while also being functional to cater to the younger generation’s fitness needs.
Leotards Over Tights
Another hallmark of 90s workout outfits was the iconic leotard worn over tights as aforementioned with celebrity fitness icons, Jane Fonda and Olivia Newton-John. Leotards are one-piece, fitted garments with a plunging neckline and an open back. Bright-coloured tights are layered underneath. These pairs are usually worn with contrasting colour combinations or unique printed patterns. This bold style emphasises body confidence while its flexibility provides women freedom of movement during workouts.
However, this fashion style died down as a trend over the years and bodysuits reign over as its successor. Bodysuits combined leotards and tights in one! Bodysuits are now being worn as outerwear for daily use apart from exercise. This is one of the most popular athleisure nowadays and activewear brands like Kate Galliano offer a stylish and elegant one-piece activewear collection such as our best-selling KG Romper. These bodysuits can be worn exclusively and you’ll be turning heads in time with this one-and-done look!
Statement Leggings
The 90s workout attire wouldn’t be complete without statement leggings. Bold prints and vibrant coloured leggings add a fun, playful vibe from floral patterns to funky geometric designs in any fitness environment. Leggings never left the fashion scene as these fitted garments are a highly functional, flexible, and comfortable alternative to track pants and joggers. Nowadays, modernised leggings go for the classic style of solid colours. If you’re looking for a pair of statement leggings to build your retro athleisure outfit, KG Luxe Leggings give a luxurious, flattering fit for practicality and aesthetics.
Windbreakers
Colour-block windbreakers were the perfect accessory to layer over any 90s workout outfit. These lightweight and breathable jackets are popularly designed in multiple tones, often bright and striking colour palettes. These are perfect for outdoor activities like a morning jog at the park or as a stylish coverall when heading to the gym.
Sweatbands
Who could ever forget the iconic sweatbands? Worn around the wrist or forehead, they were a symbol of the determined professional athlete. Sweatbands fit perfectly into any 90s workout attire! More than a practical accessory, sweatbands served as a vibrant pop of colour, enhancing the overall outfit. Modern activewear has revisited this quirky trend. Finish off your Kate Galliano activewear pieces with a chic sweatband to add that nostalgic retro touch.
Sweatshirts
Oversized sweatshirts became a huge trend for street-style looks in the 90s. They’re versatile, comfortable and easily go with a lot of sportswear apparel. Sweatshirts are perfect for cooler workout days, keeping you warm and cozy. They’ve never gone out of style and are still among the most popular athleisure throughout the decades. Activewear brand like Kate Galliano embraces this trend with sophisticated activewear hoodies and jumper designs that don’t compromise on style. Our collection guarantees that your 90s workout outfit is not just functional but also adds aesthetic value.
Sweatpants
Pair your favourite sweatshirt with baggy sweatpants to achieve the vintage activewear look you’re going for. The 90s sweatpants consistently make any workout attire classic and fashionably cozy. With elastic waists and comfy fits, they allowed for a full range of motion while offering that relaxed look that was so popular at the time. Kate Galliano’s tracksuit pants collection gave a modernised twist to this classic piece, destined to be your next go-to athleisure wear for everyday use.
Nylon Shorts
Nylon shorts were all the rage during the 90s, characterized by their lightweight material, vivid colours, and bold prints. A must-have workout bottoms that allow people to freely move in style with these shorts for any workout, even at high-intensity levels. Nylon shorts were highly popular, especially in men’s retro workout clothes.
Cycling Shorts
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Cycling shorts made a major comeback during the 90s. All thanks to Princess Diana’s iconic streetwear styles that ignited the revival of biker shorts. These snug-fitting shorts are incredibly practical for workouts, providing comfort and ease of movement. Cycling shorts give an edgy, sporty look to everyday wear in today’s athleisure fashion. Modernised biker shorts can be seen in activewear collections like Kate Galliano’s Sculpt Scrunch Bike Shorts. These latest fashion iterations pay homage to the nostalgic allure of the 90s while incorporating contemporary design elements. KG activewear shorts collection utilises quality performance fabrics that provide both support and breathability, catering to the needs of the modern woman.
Cropped Tops
Cropped tops were another fabulous addition to 90s workout outfits, popularly adorned with playful graphics and colourful patterns. Often paired with high-waisted bottoms, these tops brought a playful yet strong sense of confidence while breaking a sweat with unrestricted movements during workouts. Channel that nostalgic vibe with KG Luxe Cropped Top from gym sessions to everyday wear for your sophisticated 90s workout attire.
Tie-Dye and Ombre
As the 90s were notorious for vibrant colours and funky patterns, tie-dye prints and ombre workout clothes could fill any gym space with high, playful energy. These fresh takes on tones became a canvas for self-expression and creativity. Tie-dye, with its psychedelic swirls of colour, was synonymous with the free-spirited vibes. Ombre creates soft transitions of colour that are visually appealing to the eye — representing an adventurous approach to athletic apparel.
Beanie
No 90s workout outfit was complete without the iconic beanie. This iconic piece of headwear made its way into sportswear, popularised by athletes and celebrities rocking beanies with oversized sweatshirts, cycling shorts, or statement leggings. This accessory adds a pop of colour, a level of coolness and a sense of practicality, especially for women with longer hair. A beanie can complete any female 90s workout clothes, giving off a chic athleisure vibe perfect for running errands post-workout.
Shop your 90s Activewear Today!
Don’t just reminisce about the era—wear it! Kate Galliano offers premium quality activewear that completes the chic and vibrant 90s workout attire you’re going for. Channel the iconic style of the past while staying ahead in fitness and athleisure fashion. You have yet to discover your new favourite 90s workout attire as our activewear designs don’t shy away from bright colours. If you're ready to revamp your workout wardrobe and embrace the spirit of the 90s, explore Kate Galliano’s complete collection today!
