There’s something magical about a leotard that leaves a lasting impression—the perfect combination of style, creativity, and team spirit. Over the years, we’ve seen some truly standout designs that made us wish they could be added to the team’s permanent rotation. Whether it was a unique color scheme, a bold pattern, or a design that simply felt ahead of its time, some leos deserve a comeback.
Below, we’re spotlighting seven leotard designs we can’t stop thinking about and wish teams would bring back. From unforgettable moments to head-turning aesthetics, these leos have earned their place in gymnastics fashion history. Let’s dive into the designs we’d love to see again—and why they’re so deserving of a revival.
Florida’s Shiny Ombre
Florida is one of the worst teams when it comes to only wearing a leotard a couple times before it’s never seen again (don’t get us started on those pink leos…), but the all-blue, shiny ombre design it wore when it won the 2015 national title is the leotard we’re probably most sad about. It was only worn one other time, in 2017, but it’s still one of our all-time favorites from the Gators. Maybe in the 2040s the team will base a throwback design off it…
North Carolina’s Thunderstorm
It’s a beautiful design in and of itself, but it was also so different from anything North Carolina—or really any other team—has worn. Plus, it just looks comfy. Bring it back, Tar Heels!
Air Force’s Ombre
A subtle blue camo paired with ombre? Sign us up! Plus, it was by far one of Air Force’s best leos of this era. While the Falcons’ recent designs have been top-notch, we wouldn’t complain about having this throwback added to the rotation.
Florida’s Orange Creamcicle
If you’re an avid reader of our Leotard Rankings series, you know we are pretty much constantly begging for Florida to wear leotards with more orange. This is what we mean. Not every leotard needs to be this orange, but it would be nice to have something truly in-your-face more than once a decade.
Pittsburgh’s Glitter Ombre
With the number of teams that have used a similar design in recent seasons, it’s crazy to think this was only worn once in 2019. Yellow is a hard color to pull off, but Pitt did a great job with a casual ombre sleeve, making this design one we would love to see again.
Michigan State’s Lace
This design from Michigan State, a team known for its elegant leotards, is one we would love to see back in rotation. Leotards with lace are hard to pull off, but this one does it well and combines a lot of elements to make a beautiful look.
UCLA’s Varsity
We’ve seen a lot of questionable leotard designs come out of Westwood over the last decade (fish net sleeves, anyone?), but this one is a classic that deserved to be worn more than twice. The multi-colored sparkle and the ombre make this one of the more colorful designs, and we know how much head coach Janelle McDonald loves bright looks!
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.
READ THIS NEXT: Leotards
Article by Savanna Wellman and Elizabeth Grimsley
