STYLE : FASHION : Body Conscious

Just as exercise is no longer limited to jumping jacks and leg lifts, exercise clothing isn’t just leotards and tights anymore. Attuned to the recent biking, hiking and stair-climbing crazes, designers of workout wear have reclaimed the unitard and updated it with stretch fabrics that allow greater freedom of movement while wicking moisture away from the skin--all without compromising style.

In the ‘80s, fashion designers here and in Europe took the comfortable one-piece suit originally intended for the gym and transformed it into a sleek, go-anywhere accessory. In the ‘90s, exercise-wear designers have rethought the unitard, shortened it to mid-thigh and scooped it out front and back to meet the needs of serious fitness fans.

Florals, geometrics and jewel-toned solids are popular, but black is the best-selling color for exercise wear. Now, however, it’s not so basic. Sheer insets, exposed bras and leg-revealing, derriere-concealing shorts give the unitard a fresh turn.