Boy this week was a DOOZY. I was able to watch Kentucky take on Arkansas in person here in Lexington, but it was a good weekend to have multiple screens to catch all the action. No. 1 vs No. 2, storied rivalries, and plenty of ranking shakeups. But we're here to talk leotards. (All photos c/o the respective schools' Athletic Department)
1. LSU (L, 198.050-198.150 vs Florida)
These are my all-time favorite LSU leotards, so I was happy to see them in a matchup as important as this. The stoning is reminiscent of the Great Gatsby and the purple shines through the black under the PMAC lights. Some may argue that LSU focuses on their colors rather than their mascot like other schools, but with a purple this beautiful how could you not?
2. Florida (W, 198.150-198.050 at LSU)
A very welcome change in colors for Florida, these bedazzled leotards drew me in from a sneak preview on their Instagram. Normally I'm not a fan of the V-neck, but the intricate back redeemed the Gators. Florida has continuously had varied leotards this season and I'm eager to see what's next.
3. Kentucky (W, 197.00-196.525 vs Arkansas)
The Cats released a preview of these before the season began, and I have waited to see them in action ever since. In person and on TV, the cat-scratch detail was unique and flattering. However, with the dots and Wildcat logo and criss-cross back, these bordered on too much. With one element removed, these would make a case for my No. 1 spot.
4. Georgia (W, 197.275-197.00 vs Alabama)
The vintage factor propels the Dawgs back into my Top 4. This design is one that dates back to the glory days (pun intended) of Georgia Gymnastics, and the addition of rhinestones brings it into 2021. It's hard to tell if the black body is velvet or just shiny, but either way it works. I would have taken out some of the rhinestones, but a throwback is always a win in my book.
5. Arkansas (L, 196.525-197.00 at Kentucky)
Woooo pig. These leotards were packed with sparkle and were flattering on all the athletes. I liked the vertical ARKANSAS detail on the back, but in person the sleeves confused me. An opaque panel made it look like they were always rolled up and cut off the beautiful lines this team has. Very basic, but still a testament to Coach Wieber's revamp.
6. Missouri (W, 196.175-196.100 vs Auburn)
This cause leotard was a great way for Mizzou to shake things up. The pink details created strong lines and looked far better than a gold detail would. Not a huge fan of the tiny bedazzled breast cancer ribbons on the sleeves, but this is the best cause leotard we've seen so far.
7. Auburn (L, 196.100-196.175 at Missouri)
Pink and navy is a classic combo, but these were busy. The rhinestone pattern over the floral was like an optical illusion, and the neckline didn't help. Look, I love Auburn as an institution and they are one of the programs that makes SEC Gym so special, but the leotards have missed the mark so far in 2021.
8. Alabama (L, 197.00-197.275 at Georgia)
Put a skirt on these and they would be a STUNNING figure skating costume. As a leotard, does not translate. The neckline is pretty and reflects the name, but I can't imagine it was comfortable during competition. I still love the approach to leotards the program is taking, but I hope for some simplicity in the six remaining slots.
Out-of-conference honorable mention: Michigan's purple cause leotards for their #FlipForChip campaign in a comeback meet against Nebraska