Top 5 TV and Movie Moments That Revolutionized Activewear

Activewear has taken over as the ultimate fashion crossover – seamlessly blending comfort, functionality, and style. But it’s not just about what we wear to the gym anymore. Thanks to pop culture, activewear has been propelled from fitness studios to everyday wardrobes, all while making us feel like we’re ready for action (even if we’re just lounging on the couch).

From iconic TV scenes to unforgettable movie moments, some cultural highlights have cemented activewear’s place in mainstream fashion. Let’s take a nostalgic dive into the top five TV and movie moments that transformed how we see (and wear) activewear today.

1. “Legally Blonde” – Elle Woods and Her All-Pink Gym Look

Who could forget Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon, walking into Harvard Law in her signature pink wardrobe? Iconic. But it wasn’t just her courtroom style that stole the show. Elle’s workout style is unforgettable too. We’ll never forget that scene where she confronts Warner in the gym. She’s rocking a form-fitting, baby-pink activewear set that screams confidence and charisma.

What we love about Elle’s unapologetically feminine gym look broke the mold that activewear had to be neutral or boring. She showed us that you could sweat and slay simultaneously. It’s a vibe that lives on today, inspiring brands to create pieces that are as stylish as they are functional.

If Elle Woods were shopping for activewear today, she’d definitely be browsing donajobrand.com for something bold, bright, and effortlessly chic.

2. “Friends” – Rachel Green’s 90s Athleisure Perfection

Rachel Green (played by Jennifer Aniston) was (and still is) a massive inspiration for 90s fashion, and her athleisure moments were no exception. It doesn't matter if she was lounging in Central Park or going for a jog in her perfectly coordinated sweatshirts and leggings, Rachel made casual sporty vibes look effortlessly cool.

One of her most memorable moments is her tennis outfit – a crisp white ensemble paired with a sporty ponytail. That look was the perfect picture of 90s activewear done right. Rachel’s looks blurred the lines between fitness gear and street style, which is exactly what modern athleisure is all about and that’s why we can still draw inspiration from her wardrobe today.

3. “Clueless” – Cher’s Yellow Plaid Gym Outfit

Cher Horowitz from Clueless revolutionized preppy fashion while redefining what gym class style could look like. While most of us were in baggy sweatpants and old T-shirts during high school PE, Cher stepped up in a coordinated yellow plaid activewear set that was way too chic for gym class and truth be told, that's icon behavior.

Her bold outfit screamed, “I may be working out, but I still have my life together.” Thanks to Cher, the idea of looking put together while being active became aspirational and achievable.

Cher’s iconic sporty look paved the way for stylish matching sets and unique activewear designs. It’s all about looking fabulous, even when you’re breaking a sweat.

4. “Bring It On” – Cheerleading Uniforms That Sparked a Trend

Legendary one-liners, a killer soundtrack, and a whole new appreciation for cheerleading uniforms as fashion. When Bring It On hit theaters in 2000, it was a moment. Suddenly, crop tops, pleated skirts, and sporty aesthetics were everywhere.

The film’s perfectly choreographed routines and athletic outfits celebrated the energy and power of activewear, showing that performance gear could be fun and fashionable. The cheer squad uniforms, with their bold colors and sleek designs, sparked a trend for athletic-inspired looks in mainstream fashion.

5. “Gossip Girl” – Serena van der Woodsen’s Luxe Athleisure

Before athleisure was even a word, Serena van der Woodsen (played by Blake Lively) was giving us luxury activewear moments in Gossip Girl. Whether she was seen heading to yoga or just strolling the Upper East Side, Serena’s outfits were always glamorous, even when she was in casual wear.

From hair to shoes, the character nailed the effortless look  – think fitted hoodies, chic leggings, and understated sneakers that whisper “I woke up like this.” Serena’s style made it clear that activewear wasn’t just for the gym; it was a fashion statement in itself.

Why These Moments Matter

These iconic TV and movie moments entertained us and for many of us, they’ve become the comfort viewing we revisit over and over. These characters are stuck to memory and so has their style. For many, they’ve inspired the way we dress including how we think about activewear.

They taught us that what you wear while being active can still reflect your personal style. It’s no wonder that activewear has become one of the fastest-growing categories in fashion, blending performance with personality.

Make Your Own Iconic Activewear Moment

Pop culture has shown us that activewear can be so much more than just gym clothes it can also be a way to express yourself, feel confident, and stay comfortable all at once. Whether you’re channeling Cher’s coordinated sets, Rachel’s sporty 90s vibe or Serena’s luxury athleisure looks, there’s never been a better time to embrace this trend.