The Evolution of Sports Fashion: A Look at Nostalgia and Innovation
By: Allyson Mosser
As I’m sure your mother has told you, old fashion trends always come back—and sports fashion is no exception. Activewear has evolved drastically over the years, yet it continues to follow the same trend cycle. Remember that white tennis skirt you bought two years ago? This small and seemingly insignificant fad encapsulates the importance of sportswear in fashion. While styles evolve, their cultural impact remains the same. Think back to the days of neon leotards and scrunchies as workout wear or the nostalgic grip a pair of old Nike Pros still has on your closet. Sportswear continues to advance, yet we’re bringing back the nostalgia of the '90s— with better fabrics, of course.
Before diving into where sports fashion is today, let’s take a look at its roots. In the 19th century, the rise of organized sports created a demand for specialized activewear. By the 1920s, jersey knits and zip-up windbreakers became the norm. The late 1970s saw the rise of the fitness craze, bringing tracksuits, sweatbands, and aerobics culture into mainstream fashion. Then came the '90s, introducing the casual athleisure wear we still love today—oversized t-shirts, leggings, and sweatpants, all prioritizing comfort and practicality. While these silhouettes remain in style, the textiles have changed drastically.
With the introduction of synthetic fibers like spandex, nylon, and polyester, activewear became more flexible, durable, and moisture-wicking. Today, brands take pride in high-tech fabrics, driven by the need for performance-enhancing gear. Features like compression, temperature regulation, and antimicrobial properties have become the new normal. And as technology continues to push fashion forward, we’re seeing even more advancements—smart fabrics, eco-friendly materials, and sustainability-driven designs. The sportswear industry is evolving to help athletes and everyday wearers perform at their best while minimizing environmental impact.
Despite the industry's constant innovation, nostalgia remains a driving force in fashion. Channeling our inner Princess Diana athleisure, we grab oversized crewnecks, biker shorts, and chunky sneakers—effortlessly on trend. Retro fashion resonates with consumers, offering a sense of familiarity and comfort in an industry full of change. We see this even in Marist’s own Men's Basketball Team. Their "Marist 87s" uniform pays homage to the 1986-87 season—one of the team's best. "You always gotta respect the past. So many people played before you," said Pascarelli. "Without them, you don't know if you'd get the same opportunity… it's cool to represent them in a way." His words reflect the essence of sports fashion: honoring history while pushing forward.
The intersection of fashion and sports is more evident than ever. Take tennis, for example—the entire preppy sport culture is a fashion trend in itself, from polo shirts and pleated skirts to classic tennis shoes. Swap the tennis ball for a basketball, and you’ll see the court’s influence on streetwear—Air Jordans, basketball shorts, and varsity jackets remain staples in everyday style. Athletes like Serena Williams, Travis Kelce, and many more have elevated sports fashion through game-day fits, designer collaborations, and personal collections, proving that sports and style are inextricably linked.
Looking ahead, the future of sportswear is limitless. With high-tech fabrics, sustainability advancements, gender-neutral styles, and modern media shaping trends, the industry continues to evolve. Whether you're an athlete or an activewear lover, one thing is certain—sports fashion will always be a fusion of innovation and nostalgia, adapting to the needs of the present while honoring the past.