What to Wear to Pilates: 10 Athleisure Outfits That Actually Work
The pilates-inspired athleisure trend has absolutely exploded over the past few years, and it’s easy to see why. These stylish, functional outfits strike the perfect balance between comfort and chic, making them ideal for both your workout and your post-class coffee run.
The pilates aesthetic is characterized by clean lines, body-hugging silhouettes, and a sophisticated color palette – think soft pastels, neutrals, and the occasional pop of vibrant color. What makes these outfits particularly appealing is their versatility. They work for just about anyone, regardless of body type, and can easily transition from studio to street.
Let’s break down 10 pilates-inspired looks that absolutely nail the aesthetic:
1. Classic Pink Halter Set with White Jacket
This outfit features a soft pink halter-style bodysuit paired with a relaxed white zip-up jacket. The halter design offers excellent support while maintaining a feminine silhouette. The smile on the woman’s face shows just how comfortable this ensemble feels. This combination is perfect for those who want coverage that’s easy to adjust as your body temperature changes during class.
This look would suit those with athletic builds who want to highlight their shoulders, and it’s appropriate for both reformer and mat pilates classes. For a similar style, try pairing any pastel bodysuit with a light, breathable cover-up.
2. Bubblegum Pink Fitted Jumpsuit
In this bright, eye-catching look, we see a full-coverage pink jumpsuit with a zip front and long sleeves. The fitted silhouette hugs the body while still allowing for movement. This outfit is ideal for outdoor pilates sessions as it provides sun protection for the arms while keeping you looking stylish. The sneakers add a sporty touch that makes this perfect for running errands after class.
This jumpsuit would particularly flatter those with longer torsos, and it’s appropriate for cooler weather pilates sessions or air-conditioned studios. To recreate this look, opt for a monochromatic jumpsuit in a stretchy material with moisture-wicking properties.
3. Powder Blue Workout Set with Shearling Boots
This cozy yet functional outfit combines a powder blue tank and leggings with a crisp white zip-up jacket. The woman is carrying coffee in a sustainable cup holder, embodying that post-workout refreshment vibe. The fluffy shearling boots add an unexpected comfort element that’s perfect for winter studio-to-street transitions.
This ensemble would work well for those who tend to get cold after workouts and want an outfit that transitions seamlessly into casual wear. For your own version, pair matching blue leggings and a crossover tank with your favorite comfortable footwear.
4. White and Pink Layered Studio Look
Here we see a pilates studio-ready outfit with white leggings and a pink accent layer. The woman is taking a mirror selfie in what appears to be a high-end pilates studio, showcasing the outfit’s clean lines and minimal aesthetic. The white-on-white look with just a touch of pink creates a fresh, bright appearance that’s both motivating and photogenic.
This combination works exceptionally well for those who prefer a more put-together look for their workouts. To achieve this style, invest in high-quality white leggings (preferably squat-proof!) and layer with coordinating pastel pieces.
5. Pale Pink Sports Bra and High-Waisted Leggings
This minimal yet striking outfit features a pale pink sports bra paired with high-waisted light pink leggings. The look is elevated by white over-ear headphones, suggesting this outfit works great for both pilates and other cardio activities. The monochromatic palette gives this athletic ensemble a sophisticated edge.
This style would particularly flatter those with athletic builds who are comfortable showing more skin. It’s perfect for hot pilates or heated studio sessions. For a similar look, match your sports bra to your leggings in a soft, feminine hue.
6. Taupe Matching Set with Open Cardigan
In this beautifully neutral ensemble, we see a taupe sports bra and high-waisted leggings paired with a coordinating long cardigan. The woman appears to be preparing for an at-home workout, with candles visible in the background creating a serene atmosphere. The monochromatic nude palette feels luxurious and calming.
This outfit would suit those who practice pilates at home and appreciate a more zen, spa-like atmosphere for their workouts. To recreate this look, choose a matching set in a warm neutral tone and add a lightweight, stretchy cardigan in the same color family.
7. Burgundy Halter Set with Coordinating Bag
This rich burgundy halter top and high-waisted leggings create a bold yet elegant silhouette. The woman is walking alongside a classic stone building, carrying what appears to be a matching burgundy gym bag. This darker color palette offers a sophisticated alternative to the softer hues often seen in pilates wear.
This ensemble would be particularly flattering for those with hourglass figures, and it’s appropriate for studio sessions followed by urban adventures. For your own version, experiment with deeper jewel tones that make a statement while maintaining the clean lines essential to pilates style.
8. Hot Pink Sports Bra and Leggings with Headphones
This vibrant hot pink matching set creates an energetic look perfect for an outdoor pilates session. The woman is wearing stylish headphones and appears to be in a park setting, showing how these outfits can transition to outdoor workouts. The bold color choice makes a statement while maintaining the sleek silhouette that defines pilates wear.
This bright ensemble would be perfect for those who want to inject some energy and vibrancy into their workout routine. It’s ideal for outdoor sessions or when you want to stand out in class. To create this look, choose a matching set in a bold, attention-grabbing color.
9. Soft Yellow Lounge Set with Cropped Cardigan
This elegant pale yellow set consists of wide-leg pants, a crop top, and a matching cardigan. The woman is carrying a drink in a café doorway, showcasing how seamlessly these pilates-inspired looks can transition to casual social settings. The butter-yellow hue feels fresh and sophisticated.
This looser fit would work beautifully for those who prefer more relaxed silhouettes while maintaining the refined aesthetic of pilates wear. It’s perfect for restorative pilates followed by brunch. For a similar look, choose coordinating wide-leg pants and a crop top in a soft, warm hue.
10. Heather Grey Bodysuit with Flared Leggings
This classic grey bodysuit paired with slightly flared leggings offers a timeless silhouette that’s both flattering and functional. The woman is photographed on a city street outside a boutique, demonstrating how these pilates-inspired looks have become acceptable everyday wear. The simplicity of this monochromatic grey ensemble makes it effortlessly chic.
This outfit would suit nearly any body type and is versatile enough for various settings beyond the studio. To recreate this look, opt for a fitted grey bodysuit or tank with coordinating flared or boot-cut leggings for a silhouette that elongates the legs.
The Pilates Aesthetic: Why It Works
What makes these pilates-inspired outfits so appealing is their perfect balance of form and function. Each ensemble emphasizes a sleek silhouette while providing the stretch and comfort needed for movement. The color palette ranges from soft neutrals to vibrant statement hues, but the clean lines and coordinated approach remain consistent.
After reviewing these looks, it’s clear why the pilates aesthetic has transcended the studio. These outfits make you feel put-together, confident, and ready for whatever the day brings – whether that’s a series of teaser exercises or tackling your to-do list around town. The key to nailing this style is in the simplicity: coordinated sets, minimal accessories, and quality fabrics that move with your body.
Shoping Guide for Pilates-Inspired Athleisure: Brands at Every Price Point
Luxury Tier ($100+ per piece)
Alo Yoga has become synonymous with high-end pilates and yoga wear. Their buttery-soft Airlift leggings and sculpting bodysuits come in those gorgeous muted tones and sleek silhouettes we’ve been drooling over. Their matching sets typically run $150-250 for a complete outfit.
Varley offers sophisticated, European-inspired pilates wear with unique textures and subtle details that elevate basic pieces. Their monochromatic sets in soft neutrals and pastels perfectly capture that elegant studio-to-street vibe.
SET Active specializes in luxe, minimal matching sets in seasonal colorways that are constantly refreshed. Their signature Sculptflex material is unbelievably soft while maintaining structure.
Girlfriend Collective delivers sustainable luxury with their compressive, high-performance fabrics made from recycled materials. Their color palettes tend toward rich, saturated hues like the burgundy set shown above.
Mid-Range ($50-100 per piece)
Bo+Tee is definitely worth mentioning in our mid-range category (typically $40-60 USD per piece). This Oh Polly sister brand has become a go-to for influencers and fitness enthusiasts alike. Their collection features those sleek, minimal silhouettes we’ve been discussing, with a focus on supportive sports bras and form-fitting leggings in both neutrals and trendy seasonal colors.
Athleta offers a fantastic range of pilates-appropriate gear with an emphasis on performance fabrics. Their Salutation Stash tights and Conscious Crops are perfect for creating those coordinated looks.
Vuori has gained a cult following for their buttery-soft fabric that feels luxurious against the skin. Their Studio Pocket Leggings and Yosemite Bras create that sleek pilates silhouette.
Outdoor Voices delivers on those fun, bright colorways (like the hot pink set) while maintaining clean lines and functional design. Their RecTrek sets and Exercise Dresses have become staples in the athleisure wardrobe.
Reformation recently expanded into activewear with their sustainably-made Ref Active line, featuring beautiful matching sets in both neutrals and seasonal colors.
Budget-Friendly ($20-50 per piece)
Aerie’s OFFLINE collection offers incredibly affordable pilates-style pieces that don’t sacrifice quality. Their Real Me fabric is butter-soft and comes in gorgeous colorways like the pale blues and pinks shown above.
Old Navy has seriously upped their activewear game with their PowerSoft fabric that rivals more expensive brands. Their high-waisted leggings and matching sports bras come in a wide range of colors and frequently go on sale.
H&M Sport offers surprisingly durable pilates-appropriate wear at accessible price points. Their seamless sets and ribbed leggings capture the aesthetic without the premium price tag.
Amazon’s CRZ YOGA has become known as an “Alo dupe” with their buttery-soft fabrics and clean designs at a fraction of the price. Their cross-waist leggings and seamless sports bras are almost indistinguishable from luxury alternatives.
Would you try any of these pilates-inspired looks? The beauty is that they can be adapted to suit your personal style while still maintaining that coveted studio-to-street versatility that makes them so popular!
