Leotards are more than just uniforms—they’re a canvas for creativity and a way for teams to showcase their unique style. But every so often, a design comes along that’s so iconic, it’s too good for just one team. Or something like that. From intricate patterns to bold color combos, certain leotards have made their way across multiple squads, each one putting their own spin on the look.
Below, we’re exploring the leotard designs that crossed team lines. Who wore it best? Did one squad’s take outshine the rest, or did every team nail the look in their own way? Let’s take a closer look at these iconic designs and see which teams made them their own.
Note: Not every team that wore a specific stock design may be listed in each section.
Alpha Factor’s Ferocious
Air Force, Georgia, Maryland, Missouri, Ohio State, SEMO, Southern Utah, and Utah
Not only was this design very popular among teams of all levels across college gymnastics, the version with a black body and rest accents on the sleeves was by far the most popular—and for good reason. The square neckline is flattering on all the gymnasts, and the design is relatively simple and therefore likely affordable for many teams looking to add another leotard to their closet.
Alpha Factor’s Timeless
Bridgeport, Cornell, Lindenwood, LSU, SEMO, Southern Connecticut, Springfield, Utah, Utah State, and West Chester
Unlike the tiger arms leotard, this design lent itself better to individualization from teams, with many customizing the V and body to reflect their team colors. That, plus that fact that it is flattering on everyone, allowed so many teams to make it a favorite in their closet—so much so that there was one collegiate national championship where multiple USAG teams wore it at the same meet!
Dreamlight/Alpha Factor’s Swooping Side V
Georgia, Iowa, LSU, Michigan, Oregon State, Southern Utah, Stanford, and UW-La Crosse
A fancier stock design than the two above, this one was worn by more top teams and was more customizable for teams to really make it their own. In fact, Georgia’s is a different brand but still strikingly similar to the Alpha Factor versions. It’s hard not to like any iteration presented.
GK’s Bold Burst
Alabama, BYU, Michigan, and Stanford
GK joins the party with this design that allowed for teams to customize to their heart’s content. While some kept the sleeves the same color, Alabama and Michigan took it to the next level by adding a white sleeve and even a little sparkle in the case of the Crimson Tide.
Alpha Factor’s Tribute
Air Force, Oklahoma, Stanford, and Washington
A classic staple for some teams, this leotard used sequins to add a bit of sparkle throughout, plus a deep V for a different look. Stanford’s version of this leotard stands out, as it combined multiple colors to create a two-toned design.
GK’s Trimmed Up
Hamline, Iowa, Iowa State, Kentucky, New Hampshire, Pittsburgh, and Stanford
An interesting look that has been seen from multiple teams, this design at first glance almost looks like it has a necklace due to the small straps in the center. Some teams camouflaged the straps into the design while others used a contrasting color or sparkles to make it stand out.
GK’s Firework
Greenville, Ithaca, Maryland, Michigan, and Texas Woman’s
One of the more recent stock designs to appear among multiple teams, it uses small stripes to create a burst effect that moves throughout both the front and back of the leotard. For teams like Greenville and Ithaca, who may not have the budgets of DI schools to get new leotards regularly, this design is a fun addition to their closet.
Love diving into gymnastics fashion? Get ready to take your obsession to the next level! At the end of the week, we’re launching our leotard database—featuring designs from teams across the NCAA, complete with photos, details, and more. Stay tuned for the ultimate resource to track your favorite leos and discover new ones to love.
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Article by Savanna Wellman and Elizabeth Grimsley
