Olympic Fashion: Gold Medal Style

Etsy.com handmade and vintage goods
hedykiesler

Story by Gabriella Cetrulo

Published on July 29, 2012 in Shop

hedykiesler

When I was a kid, watching the Olympics was an captivating experience. Between the over-the-top physical feats and the brightly patriotic uniforms, the participants seemed like heroes out of a classic comic book. But what strikes me now is the number of female athletes represented; over the course of a century, we’ve advanced from being totally ineligible for Olympic events to participating in all of the same events as men (with this year’s addition of women’s boxing). And not only are we participating, but this is the first year the US team is female-dominated!

As the Summer Olympics get into full swing, it’s the perfect time to channel the looks of athletic pioneers from decades past.

1920s Swimmer

[Pictured: 1. Vintage photo of a woman in a bathing cap from Sohlenlede; 2. Navy wrestler by Minnowbathers; 3. 1920s swim cap from lactoseintolerart; 4. 1980s round sunglasses from UGLYD0LLvintage; 5. 1970s peep toe wedges from GingerRootVintage; 6. Woven straw bag from ChicOrigins.]

A dark modest one-piece, a simple woven bag, and a pair of round vintage sunglasses are all you need to capture the look of the 1920s. And don’t forget your swim cap (especially if you’re still sporting finger waves).

1940s Tennis Player

[Pictured: 1. 1940s round sunglasses from THAYEReyewear; 2. 1960s vanilla pleat dress from salvagehouse;  3. Vintage saddle shoes from wildrabbitvintage; 4. Retro leather belt from WhatsNewOnTheMantel; 5. Vintage wood tennis racquet from McLDryGoods.]

A pleated white skirt is a staple on any tennis court. Aim for a longer style paired with leather oxfords and a preppy cardigan for a classic ’40s vibe.

1970s Runner

[Pictured: 1. Handmade bamboo sunglasses by TAKEMOTO; 2. 1970s jogging shorts from VintageReBelle; 3. Vintage astro sneakers from nbdg; 4. Vintage 1984 Olympics duffle from BlueFlirt.]

A classic tank top and pair of bright shorts are all you need to revive this sporty style.

1980s Gymnast

[Pictured: 1. Neon turband by Vipress; 2. Humanize Master one piece by ruffeoheartslilsnoty; 3. Black Scallop crop top by AlleyHayes8; 4. Ankle length leggings by nickom; 5. Vintage 1980s-1990s Horizon Designs duffel from SALLIEandJUDY.]

Bright, layered, and tight-fitting are key elements to this look. And a bold leotard is always a must!

Related Items

72 comments

Sign in to add your own