Pilates has amassed a cult following like no other over the last few years, but it’s not just the exercise that has surged in popularity. Pilates clothes have become a popular fashion style of their own, with TikTok coining the term “Pilates Princess”: an aesthetic characterized by pink and white athleisure, black leggings, leg warmers, and ballet-esque tops.
But it’s not all about dressing to a theme, although Pilates fashion does offer more room for creativity and fun styles since there are often more options than high-impact exercise clothing. Pilates is a low-impact workout, so naturally, the outfits tend to be a bit more relaxed than workout clothes that are designed to be pushed to the limit.
Unlike the compressive waistband leggings you might wear for your lifting sessions, your Pilates clothes should be non-restrictive and breathable, accommodating for all the folds, bends, tucks, and stretches you'll be performing in your workout.
Pilates classes usually have a laid-back open atmosphere conducive to the slow and controlled movements you’ll be performing, and for this, there’s nothing more important than feeling comfortable in what you wear.
That’s why second-skin, buttery soft fabrics, cooling cotton, and activewear that’s not too tight are a must for mat or reformer sessions.
Let’s discover what to wear to your first Pilates class, including what leggings and shorts styles are best, the cutest color combos, and styling inspiration for functional and fashionable Pilates outfits for your next trip to the studio.
What To Wear To A Pilates Class
No doubt you want your Pilates outfit to be functional, comfortable, and stylish, because the best Pilates clothes let you move freely through every flow and look cute enough for a post-class selfie to celebrate another workout in the books.
Consider reaching for something form-fitting to reduce distractions, like a pair of buttery soft leggings, stretchy lightweight cycling shorts, or a longline low-impact bra. A sculpted Pilates outfit will allow you to study your form and movement in the mirrors and for your teacher to give you prompts to improve your body alignment.
With that in mind, you may want to avoid wearing something too loose on the bottom (like baggy sweatpants), and since you'll spend a lot of time in your Pilates class with your legs in the air, you might feel a lot more comfortable wearing bottoms that stay put (and avoid flashing anyone!).
If you're spending a lot of time on the mat and don't feel like going barefoot yet, why not put on pair of non-slip socks to keep you grounded as you move? Slipping around the mat isn’t the only hiccup you want to avoid, you’ll want to keep your hair out your face as you hold those pikes and inversions. So for those with long locks, say goodbye to flyaway hairs and pop on a headband or tie your hair up in a cute scrunchie.
What To Wear For Pilates | The Essential Checklist:
Form-fitting tops: Form-fitting tops are best for Pilates as they are typically made from sweat-wicking materials to keep you cool. They stay close to your body, don’t slip around, and allow your instructor to see your form.
Low or medium-impact sports bra: Strappy, lightweight sports bras are popular for Pilates, as these styles typically offer lower chest support as Pilates is a low-impact exercise. Those with a bigger cup size might want to consider still wearing medium-high support bras for exercise, and if you’re unsure, take a look at our guide to finding the correct sports bra support level.
High-waisted lightweight leggings: Second-skin leggings with a lightweight feel and stretchy fit are ideal for Pilates workouts as they move with you. Choose high-waisted options that stay in place.
Biker shorts: Biker shorts are an excellent alternative to leggings for the warmer months. Choose high-waisted shorts and lightweight fabrics for Pilates.
Pilates socks: Pilates socks are essential to wear as they have a non-slip grip on the soles to keep you safe from slipping. They are a also great option for those who don’t like going barefoot.
Hair ties: Keep your hair out of your face so you can move distraction-free.
Sweatsuit: A comfy hoodie and sweatpants are perfect for throwing on for your commute to the studio and after class, as you begin to cool down.
Your Buy Guide To The Best Pilates Clothes
Ready to shop? Here’s your top choices in each category; from strappy sports bras, to soft stay put leggings, get your Pilates outfit in a few clicks.
Stylish Strappy Sport Bras
Let’s be real. You don’t necessarily need high-impact support for Pilates (those size xxs-m) but you do need a sports bra that keeps up with your moves, feels good against your skin, and bonus points if it looks cute doing so. Whether you’re into stretchy mat classes or more intense reformer flows, these strappy sports bras offer a flattering fit, light-to-medium support, and plenty of breathability.
From open-back details to ruched fronts and soft seamless fabric, each of these Pilates sports bras is designed to complIment high-waisted Pilates leggings and be layered under cute stretchy tanks. Wear them solo for hot Pilates, or pair them with your fave crop top when you want a little more coverage.
What you’ll love:
Front cut-outs, soft stretch and sculpting.
Seamless, sweat-wicking, and lightweight designs.
Pull-over comfort and adjustable straps.
Soft ruching and twist front for a feminine touch.
Flattering necklines and unique details.
Tanks & Tops
Layering is key for Pilates, especially when your class transitions from warm-up stretches to slow lengthening resistance-movements. The best Pilates tops combine comfort, functionality, and style, offering a little coverage without compromising movement. These tanks and crops are typically made from soft, breathable fabrics with details like built-in bras, halter necks, and flattering silhouettes that move with your body.
Whether you’re heading to a heated mat class or cooling down post-session with an iced latte, these pieces work perfectly layered over a strappy bra or styled solo with your favorite Pilates leggings.
What you’ll love:
Tops that hold you in all the right places without riding up mid-roll-up.
Built-in bras to add gentle support without the need for layering
Sleek and sweat-wicking fabrics.
Flattering halter necks and thin straps for freedom of movement.
Buttery soft, stretchy, and super flattering.
Pilates Leggings & Bottoms
When it comes to what to wear for pilates, a sleek pair of high-waisted leggings are the real MVP of your reformers ‘fit, and for a classic look, black is always a winner. You want your pair of shorts, flares or leggings to stay in place as you stretch, lunge, and twist - no slipping, sagging, or constant adjusting. Look for sculpting waistbands, complete stretch, and breathable fabric that supports without compressing too much (especially around the waist).
From all-black classics to on-trend flared leggings, these bottoms provide lightweight comfort and seamless performance creating the perfect mix of yoga-chic and Pilates-pro. Plus, they’re perfect for hot Pilates, reformer, or even a quick post-class jog home.
What you’ll love:
High-waisted fits that stay put through every rep.
Flattering flares and crossover waists.
Seamless leggings that move with your body (no cameltoe).
Lightweight and luxe leggings for both function and fashion.
Ultra-smooth and comfortable light compression.
Jumpsuits & Unitards
If you’re in a lazy dressing kinda mood, a Pilates jumpsuit is your new best friend. These all-in-ones are buttery soft, breathable, and built to move with no tugging, adjusting, or mid-class wardrobe mishaps. Whether you’re into shorts or full-length styles, bodysuits outfits make it easy to nail your Pilates outfit in one effortless step.
Plus, they double as a great base layer for cooler days when you want to throw on a zip-up or oversized hoodie for a easy athleisurewear ‘fit or comfy airport look.
What you’ll love:
Stylish strappy back designs.
Short lengths perfect for summer studio sessions.
Long-lengths that double as leggings for athleisurewear styling.
Playful cuts for when you’re feeling bold
4 Cute Pilates Outfits For The Studio & Beyond
Heading to a Pilates class? We've got the perfect outfit for you. Whether you have a busy day after Pilates, so want something cute and comfortable or you want to dress in all-black, or, ballet-core styles, we've got the 'fits for you.
1. Pilates-to-Brunch
Are your weekend Pilates classes often followed by a day packed to the brim with plans? If so, then we’re sure you want to nail that low-key yet cute pilates outfit that’ll keep you comfortable from your commute to the studio to your coffees and catchups. What better than the easy to wear strappy jumpsuit for that off-duty look that'll transition perfectly from the mat to whatever the rest of your day has on offer. Throw on a baggy button-up shirt for a lightweight layer, or a relaxed zip hoodie for a cool and comfy ‘fit.
2. All Blacked Out
Monochromatic outfits… from the runways at fashion week, to your favorite gym 'fits, you just can't go wrong with an all-black look. For a chic Pilates Outfit in everyone’s favorite neutral, match an inky tank with black Pilates leggings for a slinky feline look, and enjoy the buttery soft, stretchy fabrics that move with you from pose to pose. Complete the look with a non-slip pair of socks in black so you can match head-to-toe.
Fancy keeping the monochrome vibes but in a slightly softer tone? Why not choose an all-brown outfit for Pilates with our choice of melt-in-the-mouth worthy mocha pieces.
3. Ballet-Inspired
If you’ve been on any social media site in the last year, you’ll have noticed there’s been a bit of a crossover with the Pilates and Ballet outfit aesthetics. Pink hues, and feminine cuts reign supreme, and cutesy athleisure wear outfits that look perfect in a naturally-lit studio. Choose a soft pinks for your balletcore checklist and a soft and stretchy low-impact bra that’s perfect for pilates. For a sophisticated style, pop on crossover waist leggings in classic black, and enjoy the support and stretch that allows you to move freely. Tie your hair up with a cutesy scrunchie to complete the look.
4. Ready To Flow
Although Pilates classes can start and end quite slowly and calmly, in the midst of your workout, it can be handy to have clothing layers you can whip off when you start feeling the heat. Pick a sculpting vest top that’s slightly looser fitting, but won’t ride up as you begin moving from plank to pike. Layer it over a strappy delicate sports bra for maximal style and wear with a pair of neutral brown tone shorts for an elevated studio look.
Pilates Outfit FAQ
What Should I Bring To A Pilates Class?
You don’t need to bring much to your Pilates class, as equipment and mats are usually provided. You’re welcome to bring your own mat however, and apart from that, all you’ll really need is a trusty tote bag packed with your water bottle, perhaps a microfibre towel to have close to you if it’s a rigorous or hot flow, and your personal hygiene items like deodorant and hand sanitizer.
If you have a busy weekend planned but still want to get a morning workout in, Pilates is the perfect low-impact and low-maintenance Pilates classes to book on to, as you won’t get too sweaty or have a gym holdall full of workout accessories to haul around with you afterwards!
What Do You Wear To Hot Pilates?
For hot Pilates, wear a sweat-wicking sports bra, lightweight shorts or breathable leggings, and an optional tank top. You might opt for leggings over shorts as sweat dripping down your legs can add an extra distraction and make it harder to perform balancing poses and keep equipment from slipping. Keep fabrics minimal and moisture-wicking to stay cool. Grip sole Pilates socks are also a great option for stability, and make sure you bring a grippy towel if the studio doesn’t provide one!
Do You Wear Shoes For Pilates?
No, you don’t need to wear shoes for Pilates! While it’s common for people to wear sports socks, non-slip socks with grip padding are preferred for health and safety reasons so you won’t slip around the mat or off the reformer. You can also choose to go barefoot (just make sure your feet are clean)!
What Leggings Are Best For Pilates?
Our first tip is to avoid anything low-waisted. You’ll only find yourself pulling your waistband up constantly, and we guarantee it will get really annoying after 10 minutes.
High-waisted leggings are the best choice for Pilates, particularly ones with a super-stretchy fit and soft, forgiving fabric. You want your leggings to sit high on the waist so that they don’t move around too much, and the wide-flush fit waistbands are perfect for your Pilates workouts. Don’t choose leggings with compressive ribbed waistbands as they might be uncomfortable with all the twisting, crunching, and folding you’ll be doing. Pilates fashion tend to include bright colors and patterned leggings, which can be fun to choose to add more vibrancy to your workout ‘fit!
What Shorts Are Best For Pilates?
The best type of shorts to wear to Pilates are fitted biker shorts or cycling shorts. Choose something fitted over looser styles during mat or equipment work. As you move through the various Pilates sequences, your legs will be shooting up, down, and around in multiple directions, which can lead to unwanted flashing or uncomfortable wardrobe malfunctions (like wedgies).
Pick a pair of shorts with an inseam longer than 3-4 inches, as the shorter the short, the easier they’ll ride up. The best length shorts for Pilates are longer than 5”, and biker-length shorts are perfect to take to the mat! Plus, when you wear a tight-fitting pair of shorts, you and your instructor will be able to see your form better.
Squeezing some cardio into your weekend? Luckily for you, you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your own home if your short on time… check out the chillest cardio workouts in our guide to cozy cardio.
Find your favorite Pilates workout 'fits at the touch of a button with our Gymshark App!
