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I Go to Hot Pilates Weekly—Here’s What Everyone’s Wearing to Class, Starting at Just $10

Perfect your pilates outfit with these top-trending workout clothes, from sports bras to capri leggings.

Three individuals wearing activewear one in a blue set another in red holding weights and one in black flared pants with stripesThree individuals wearing activewear one in a blue set another in red holding weights and one in black flared pants with stripes

Byrdie

TL;DR

I’ve noticed a fair share of new activewear trends since frequenting the same NYC pilates studio for months. Some of the most notable: early 2000s-inspired flared leggings (also known as yoga pants), like these CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Flare Leggings, and pilates socks that are equally cute and functional for mat or reformer classes, like these Flydo Grippy Socks.

Since the advent of the “Pilates Princess” and “Clean Girl” aesthetics not too long ago, group fitness classes, and, more importantly, the outfits you wear to them, have become an unexpected hot topic. The prominence of matching sets and influencer-favorite activewear brands like ALO has popularized the idea that what you wear to your workout class matters just as much as the energy you put into the class itself—or, at least, that’s what social media seems to tell us.

As someone who decided a few months ago to challenge myself to commit to a rigid workout regimen, specifically participating in heated pilates and sculpt classes four times a week, I’ve been taking note of the most recent NYC-based activewear trends, from Y2K-inspired capri leggings and yoga pants to sports bras cool enough to be fashion statements on their own. Analyzing what real people are wearing to work out (not just influencers on TikTok) has inspired me to consider new brands and styles for my own workout wardrobe—because what I’m seeing is not only cute but, more importantly, functional, particularly for a heated class. 

Ahead, after months of sweating in the same studio, the pieces and brands I’ve noticed everyone sporting in class. Plus, some of my personal favorite options that get me through even the toughest sweats.

Top Picks

Alo Bra at Nordstrom$64

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Adanola Ultimate Leggings at Adanola.com

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lululemon Mid-Rise Thong at Lululemon

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Alo 3″ ALO Softsculpt High-Waist Precision Short at Aloyoga.com$84

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FORM Layered Bra at Joinform.com

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Athleta Train Free Sports Bra at Athleta

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SKIMS Double Strap Scoop Bra at Skims.com$54

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FP Movement Don’t Let Go Sports Bra at Freepeople.com

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Splits 59 Raquel High Waist Flared Legging at Splits59.com

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Beyond Yoga Spacedye Layered Bootcut Pant at Beyondyoga.com

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My Go-To Workout Gear

I’ve amassed a large collection of activewear over the years, but there are a few pieces that I truly reach for every week, including the most flattering and comfiest ALO sports bra that I want in every color imaginable, and the only underwear I exercise in now, thanks to ultra-comfortable and actually sweat-wicking design. 

Unique Sports Bras

The days of simple, monochromatic racerback sports bras are dwindling, according to the women at my pilates studio. Instead, they’re embracing bold colors, funky straps, and abstract designs. 

Flared Leggings (Or Yoga Pants)

Depending on your generation, you might know these as flared leggings or yoga pants. No matter what you call them, it’s no secret that flared leggings are just as cute as they are comfortable enough for working out in. Plus, you can lounge in them on your days off from class.

Lululemon (Yes, It’s Still Everywhere)

One major observation: Activewear OG Lululemon is still alive and well in the pilates studios. I see the brand’s famous logo on the back of many pairs of simple black leggings and sports bras as I scan the room before class starts. In a world now dominated by new activewear brands, it’s cool to still see so many Lululemon loyalists. 

One-Pieces

A type of activewear I never considered until I saw girls sporting it in recent classes, the one-piece (or unitard, jumpsuit, romper—whatever you want to call it) is perfect for anyone who hates the stress of putting together a whole ensemble before working out.

Capri Leggings

Yes, you read that correctly: capris are making a comeback in a big way (and I’m not mad about it!). While you may have mostly embraced this style in your youth, the pilates girls are revamping it for heated classes. The shorter hemlines allow for more breathability when you’re majorly sweating.

Pilates Socks

Whether you’re in a pilates reformer class and required to wear pilates socks or want to avoid slipping and sliding on the mat in a hot class (or are just prefer not to go barefoot), consider throwing any of these cute pairs in your bag. 

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