Let’s Get Physical!

The 1980s was a time of materialism and individualism where pop culture reminded us that our bodies were our temples. Out of this atmosphere a new fitness fashion craze emerged, and a range of sportswear flooded the Australian market in bright hues of royal blue, fuchsia and emerald green as you can clearly see in this image from our Melbourne Harbour Trust collection. Sportswear was made from man-made materials like lycra and headbands and legwarmers capped off the look. Australia’s own superstar, Olivia Newton-John also had a large hand in popularising this look after she released 'Let’s Get Physical' in 1981.

The comfort and convenience of gym wear served as an inspiration to mainstream fashion and the look soon transitioned into everyday wear. Interestingly a trend that is seen as cringe worthy to many has stood the test of time as we still see elements of this in fashion today with the athleisure trend.