Workout Costume
Bring back the neon energy of retro aerobics.
The retro workout costume is a high-energy, comfortable classic that channels the neon aerobics craze of the 1980s. Perfect for parties or active events, this look is defined by bright color-blocked layers, spandex, and athletic accessories. It is incredibly easy to put together using basic athleisure or thrifted finds.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~15 min
- Budget
- $20–50
Try it on
See yourself as Workout
One clear photo of yourself; we render you in this costume — face untouched, full body, about 20 seconds.
One render, $1. No account needed — if it fails you're not charged. Pricing.
Your photo is sent to Google's Gemini API to make the render and isn't used for training. Renders are AI-generated and labelled.
Want a different costume on this photo, or a whole group in costume? Open the Try-On Studio.
What you need for a Workout costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Workout costume — one box instead of 6 pieces.
Neon bodysuit
A bright pink, green, or blue spandex bodysuit worn as the outer torso layer.
DIY: Use a bright one-piece swimsuit instead.
Spandex leggings
High-waisted leggings in a vibrant, contrasting color to the bodysuit.
DIY: Use any colorful athletic leggings you already own.
Cropped sweatshirt
An off-the-shoulder cropped sweatshirt in grey or a coordinating neon shade.
DIY: Cut the collar and hem off an old oversized sweatshirt.
Knit leg warmers
Thick, ribbed knit leg warmers worn scrunched down around the calves.
DIY: Cut the feet off a pair of long, colorful winter socks.
Sweatbands set
Matching terry cloth headband and wristbands in a bright neon color.
Fanny pack
A retro nylon waist bag in a neon shade to hold your essentials.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Workout costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the bright spandex leggings as your base layer.
- 2
Layer the neon bodysuit directly over the leggings, pulling it up high on the hips.
- 3
Slip on the off-the-shoulder cropped sweatshirt over the top of the bodysuit.
- 4
Pull on the knit leg warmers and scrunch them down over your ankles.
- 5
Lace up a pair of classic white athletic sneakers.
- 6
Secure the terry cloth headband around your forehead and slide the wristbands onto your wrists.
- 7
Buckle the neon fanny pack around your waist to complete the retro look.
Makeup & hair
Style your hair into a high side ponytail secured with a bright scrunchie. Keep makeup bright with colorful eyeshadow, pink blush, and pink lipstick to match the vibrant 80s aesthetic.
Workout for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair up as retro aerobics instructors with matching neon color schemes and hand weights.
- group
- Create an entire aerobics class with different neon color combinations, complete with a boombox prop.
- kids
- A miniature version with a bright unitard, tiny leg warmers, and a soft headband.
- Plus size
- Opt for high-waisted, supportive leggings and a loose, oversized off-the-shoulder sweatshirt for a comfortable, stylish fit.
- pet
- A simple neon sweatband around the neck or a small dog-sized colorful t-shirt.
Tips
- Choose breathable fabrics if you plan to dance or move around a lot.
- Wear comfortable, broken-in running shoes or classic white sneakers.
- Use the fanny pack to securely store your phone, keys, and wallet without needing a purse.
Workout costume FAQ
- What do you need for an 80s workout costume?
- You need a neon bodysuit, contrasting leggings, scrunched leg warmers, a headband, wristbands, and white sneakers.
- Can I wear this to an actual workout class?
- Yes, just ensure the layers are breathable and the leg warmers don't interfere with your footwear or equipment.
- How do I style my hair for this look?
- A high side ponytail secured with a colorful scrunchie is the classic retro aerobics hairstyle.
Did you know? The 1980s aerobics craze was heavily popularized by celebrity workout videotapes, turning athletic wear into mainstream street fashion.