Leotard

A leotard () is a unisex one-piece skin-tight garment that covers the torso from the crotch to the shoulder. The garment was made famous by the French acrobatic performer Jules Léotard (1838–1870). There are sleeveless, short-sleeved, and long-sleeved leotards. A variation is the unitard, which also covers the legs. It provides a degree of modesty and style while allowing for freedom of movement. Leotards are worn by acrobats, gymnasts, dancers, figure skaters, athletes, actors, wrestlers and contortionists both as practice garments and performance costumes. They are often worn with ballet skirts on top and tights or sometimes cycling shorts as underwear. As a casual garment, a leotard can be worn with a belt and under overalls or short skirts. Leotards are entered by stepping into the legs and pulling the sleeves over the shoulders. Scoop-necked leotards have wide neck openings and are held in place by the garment's elasticity. Others are crew necked or polo necked and close at the back of the neck with a zipper or snaps.