Few workouts have developed as loyal a following as Pilates. It focuses on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Despite its low-impact, controlled movements and precise postures, the results can be transformative—just look at Lori Harvey’s viral TikTok clip for proof.

Though Pilates dates back to the early 1900s, it’s seen a major resurgence lately. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Jennifer Aniston swear by it, new studios and sought-after instructors are popping up everywhere, and athletic brands are designing activewear specifically for the practice.

### Vogue’s Favorite Pilates Outfits:

The Cropped Cami
FP Movement All Clear Cami
$30 | Free People

The Bike Shorts
Lululemon Align High-Rise Shorts
$64 | Net-a-Porter

The Classic Leggings
Alo Airlift Leggings
$128 | Alo

“Pilates fashion is fun because you can experiment with different styles—it’s not as high-impact as a HIIT class,” says Liana Levi, founder of Forma Pilates. Whether you’re new to Pilates or a longtime enthusiast, refreshing your workout wardrobe is always a good idea. Below, find the best Pilates clothing and accessories, from breathable leggings to grippy socks.

### What to Wear to Pilates

Matching Sets
For a polished, effortless look, a matching set is unbeatable. If you want something fresh, Literary Sport’s capri-length leggings are a chic choice. Otherwise, a classic sports bra and high-waisted leggings will never fail.

– Literary Sport Nora Bra + Capri
$115 | $175
– Lululemon Yoga Twist-Back Tank + Leggings
$58 | $98
– Varley Harley FreeSoft Sports Bra + Leggings
$66 | $88
– Beyond Yoga Space Dye Crop Tank + Leggings
$74 | $97

Tops & Tees
Your go-to workout tops work great for Pilates—just avoid anything restrictive. Opt for a sports bra (like Free People’s longline cami) or a fitted tee or crop top. Alo Yoga and 437 offer stylish options.

– Free People Free Throw Muscle Tank
$40
– FP Movement All Clear Cami
$30
– Lululemon Align C/D Cami
$68
– 437 Ballet Tank Top
$70
– Alo Yoga Finesse Cropped Top
$58
– Beyond Yoga Spacedye Cropped Tank
$72

Bottoms
“Avoid anything too tight or low-waisted—comfort is key,” says Jacqui Kingswell of The Pilates Class. High-waisted leggings in a soft, stretchy fabric are ideal. If you prefer shorts, bike styles work just as well.

– Rhone Revive Full-Length Leggings
$98
– Lululemon Align High-Rise Shorts
$64
– Splits59 Airweight High-Waist Leggings
$108
– Alo Airlift Leggings
$128
– Skims Cotton Jersey Foldover Pants
$64
– Rhone Revive 6″ Shorts
$68

Jumpsuits & Unitards
Skip the separates—a buttery-soft onesie with a built-in bra makes getting dressed a breeze. For those who prefer shorts, a sleek romper (like Nike’s) is a great alternative.

– Lululemon Align Bodysuit
$148
– Girlfriend Collective Café Bike Unitard
(Price not listed)

(Note: Some prices and links may vary.)Pilates Outfit Essentials

Bodysuits & Jumpsuits
– Alo Yoga Airbrush One and Done Onesie – $138
– Nike Zenvy Playsuit – $110
– Left on Friday Weekender Playsuit – $130 (Moda Operandi)
– Beyond Yoga Uplevel Midi Jumpsuit – $135 (Nordstrom)

Zip-Ups & Cardigans
Staying warm helps with flexibility and prevents injury. Layer a cozy zip-up or cardigan before and after class. Opt for effortless pieces like cashmere sweaters (like Goop’s Natalie sweater) or relaxed sweatshirts (from Lululemon or Varley).
– Lululemon Scuba Oversized Half-Zip Hoodie – $118
– Ryder Jude Crop Hoodie – $140 (Shopbop)
– Jaya Cardigan Archive – $160 (Live The Process)
– Skims Zip-Up Hoodie – $74
– Varley Hawley DoubleSoft Sweatshirt – $138 (Net-a-Porter)
– Goop Natalie Cashmere Sweater – $695

Socks
For studio sessions or if you prefer not to go barefoot, grippy socks are a must. They prevent slipping and keep feet comfortable.
– BetterMe Pilates Grip Socks (3-pack) – $66
– Alo Pivot Barre Sock – $24
– Balalow Socks – $25 (Free People)
– Bombas Gripper Ankle Socks – $19

Footwear
Slip-on shoes make studio transitions easy—think Birkenstocks, clogs, or sleek sneakers.
– Salomon XA Pro 3D Sneakers – $140 (Free People)
– Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals – $155 (Free People)
– Nike LD-1000 SE Denim Sneakers – $115
– Banana Republic Leather Essential Clog – $180

At-Home Pilates Essentials
No studio? No problem. Start with a non-slip mat (thicker than a yoga mat). Props like a Pilates ring, light weights, or resistance bands can enhance your workout, but bodyweight alone works too.
– AFK Direct Pilates Ring – $20 (Amazon)
– Alo Warrior Mat – $128
– Balabangles Wrist & Ankle Weight Set – $65 (Target)
– Sonos Ace Headphones – $299 (25% off, Amazon)
– Lululemon Yoga Mat Towel – $64
– Bala Non-Weighted Exercise Ball – $29 (Amazon)

What Does Pilates Do for Your Body?
Created by Joseph Pilates for rehabilitation, Pilates focuses on balance, precision, and control. It strengthens and lengthens muscles for a leaner physique while improving mobility. It’s also a great complement to other workouts like running or yoga.

For instructor Kim Carruthers, Pilates is a lifelong mind-body practice that aids in rehabilitation, from post-surgery recovery to prenatal and postpartum healing. As you practice consistently, you’ll develop a deeper connection with your body—both on and off the mat.Pilates Benefits and Practice Tips

No matter which type of Pilates you choose—mat or reformer being the most common—Levi explains that you’ll experience similar improvements in core strength, flexibility, posture, and overall body awareness. “Working on a reformer demands more stability and provides added resistance compared to mat exercises,” she adds. “However, you can replicate reformer movements on the mat using resistance bands or light weights.”

How Often Should You Do Pilates?

Our experts agree that Pilates pairs well with other workouts like cardio, weightlifting, or yoga. For a more intense routine, Kingswell suggests practicing four to five times a week, while beginners can benefit from two to three weekly sessions. As for results? “Within a week, people often notice muscles they hadn’t felt before, and the effects deepen over time,” Kingswell says. Carruthers notes that after 30 sessions, you’ll likely feel a significant improvement in mobility—almost like having a new body. And if you need extra motivation, treating yourself to a new workout outfit never hurts.

Meet the Experts:
– Kim Carruthers, certified Pilates instructor (Los Angeles)
– Jacqui Kingswell, founder of The Pilates Class
– Liana Levi, founder of Forma Pilates studio
– Taylor Phillips, yoga and Pilates instructor, creator of Equinox Pilates Rise class