What to Wear to a Pilates Class (Cute Pilates Outfit Ideas)
I started Pilates about six months postpartum and honestly, it humbled me in the best way. As a runner for 20+ years, I had no idea how hard it would be — or how much I would love it. I was going primarily to help rehab my hypertonic pelvic floor, and it ended up being one of the best things I have done for my body. Now I tell everyone: just go.
Whether you are heading to a mat class or a reformer class, what you wear actually matters. Fitted clothing keeps fabric from catching on the reformer equipment, and it helps you check your form in the mirror, which is a big part of getting Pilates right. Here is everything you need:
- Fitted leggings or biker shorts – nothing loose that can catch on the reformer
- A fitted tank, crop top, or sports bra – form-fitting so you can see your core engagement in the mirror
- A low-impact sports bra – no need for the heavy support you would wear running (trust me, it is a relief)
- Grip socks – most reformer studios require them for stability on the machine
- A water bottle – you will want it
- A bag – big enough for your shoes, water bottle, and a layer


Cute Pilates Outfits
I put together five complete pilates outfit ideas below so you can see exactly how everything comes together. Each one is fully shoppable.
1. Mocha All Day

This is the outfit I would wear when I want to look put-together without thinking too hard about it. The cold brew brown is such a good neutral (and very on-trend right now), and the flare legging feels a little more elevated than a standard legging without being fussy. The Frame Tank from Left on Friday is one I always get complements on, the brand is known for swimwear but their activewear line is proving to be just as good. The thick straps on the Frame Tank are what make this one feel different from other workout tops.
- Barre Tank in Cold Brew
- Frame Tank in Cold Brew
- HeyNuts Workout Pro Legging
- Sunday Mockneck Crew Sweatshirt
- APL Lux Logo Socks in Ivory Cement
- New Balance 530
- Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote
2. The Pop of Color

This purple set is perfect for warmer days or when I just want a little color in my pilates clothes rotation. The Alo Match Point short has a great fit and does not ride up, which matters a lot during legwork on the reformer. The Alosoft tee is incredibly soft and layers perfectly over the bra if you want a little more coverage.
- Alosoft Back For More Tee in Plum Kiss
- Match Point Short in Plum Kiss
- Owala Freesip Water Bottle
- All In Motion Quarter Crew Socks 3pk
- APL Streamline Sneaker
- Transit Quilted Carry-All Tote
3. The Clean and Classic

You really cannot go wrong with black leggings and a white jacket. The Airbrush Corset zip jacket is the piece that makes this outfit! It is structured and flattering in a way most athletic jackets are not. The CRZ Yoga sports bra underneath is a great affordable alternative if you love the look of Lululemon but not the price tag. I have a whole post on my favorite Lululemon lookalikes if you want to dig in there.
- CRZ Yoga Butterluxe U Back Longline Sports Bra
- HeyNuts Workout Pro Legging
- Airbrush Corset Full Zip Jacket in White
- New Balance 530
- Sling Bag in Latte
- Grip Crew Socks
4. The Casual Cool

This Lululemon Align set in Prep Blue is the outfit for a cold morning when you want to be comfortable walking in but ready to move the second class starts. The sweatshirt comes off before you get on the reformer, and the matching tank and short underneath do all the work…aside from YOU, doing all the actual work, of course.
- Lululemon Align Scoop Waist-Length Tank in Prep Blue
- Lululemon Align High-Rise Short in Prep Blue
- Sunday Mockneck Crew Sweatshirt
- New Balance 327
- Unisex Daily Essential Crew Socks 3 Pack
- Porter Tote Medium in Matt Black
5. The Studio Regular

The olive color is what drew me to this set, and it is a great option if you love an earthy neutral that is not black or grey. The Alosoft long sleeve crop is perfect for studios that run cold, and the Alo Softsculpt legging has a compression level that feels really supportive without being restrictive. The Bala Bangles are a fun add-on if your studio allows ankle weights. Weights are great for those slower, controlled movements.
- Airlift Intrigue Bra in Olive Tree
- Alosoft Crop Finesse Long Sleeve in Olive Tree
- Alo Softsculpt High-Waist 7/8 Legging
- Bala Bangles Wrist and Ankle Weights
- Owala Freesip Water Bottle
- Flydo Ruffle Socks
- Transit Quilted Carry-All Tote
What to Bring to Pilates
Once you have your outfit nailed down, here is what else to toss in your bag.
Grip socks. Most reformer studios require them for stability on the machine. You can usually buy a pair at the front desk, but ordering ahead saves you money. I like the APL Lux Logo Socks for a cleaner look, or these Grip Crew Socks if you want a dedicated non-slip sole.
A water bottle. The Owala Freesip is my pick over a Stanley every time. It is lighter, slimmer, never leaks, and the internal straw is a lot more sanitary.
A good tote. You need something that fits your shoes, water bottle, and a layer. The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is a classic for a reason, and the Porter Tote in Matt Black is a great quilted option if you want something a little more structured.
Bottom Line
Pilates is no joke, and I wish I had not waited so long to try it. The right outfit genuinely makes a difference in how focused and comfortable you feel in class. Start with one good set, grab your grip socks, and just show up. If you are local to Winston-Salem, BodyMind Studio is where I go and they are absolutely the best.
The post What to Wear to a Pilates Class (Cute Outfit Ideas) appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

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