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Pilates girls swear by these wardrobe staples—and they aren't all leggings
The Pilates aesthetic has evolved far beyond matching leggings and sports bras. While those staples still have a place in every studio wardrobe, today's Pilates devotees are building outfits that move effortlessly from reformer classes to coffee runs, errands, and everything in between.
The modern Pilates uniform is all about elevated comfort. Think soft wrap tops layered over sports bras, oversized button-downs tossed on after class, elevated quarter-zips and tennis-inspired skorts that look just as good at brunch as they do during a morning walk.
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And if there's one brand that continues to define this studio-to-street look, it's Athleta. Known for blending performance fabrics with everyday style, the retailer has become a go-to destination for shoppers looking to create the effortless, wellness-inspired wardrobe that's dominating social feeds right now.
Here are the Pilates wardrobe staples women keep buying—and why they're becoming just as important as leggings.
1. Wrap tops are replacing basic workout layers
Athleta's lightweight wrap sweaters and crossover pullovers pair effortlessly with high-rise leggings or wide-leg pants, making them one of the easiest ways to achieve that coveted "I just left Pilates" look.
Why Pilates fans love them:
- Easy to layer over sports bras
- Ballet-inspired styling
- Comfortable enough for warm-ups and cool-downs
- Looks polished outside the studio
Transcend Wrap Crop Top
Designed for layering before and after class, this wrap crop top brings softness and versatility to your Pilates routine.
The lightweight fabric drapes comfortably without bulk, while the flattering wrap silhouette adds a polished, studio-ready finish to your look.
2. Barrel-leg leggings are the new fashion-forward alternative
For shoppers who feel burned out on skin-tight activewear, the barrel-leg trend offers a welcome update to the standard Pilates uniform.
Why they're trending:
- More relaxed than traditional leggings
- Easy transition from studio to street
- Creates a modern silhouette
- Pairs well with fitted tanks and wrap tops
Endless High Rise Barrel Pant
Classic leggings aren't going anywhere, but Pilates enthusiasts are increasingly experimenting with silhouettes that feel fresher and more fashion-forward.
Enter barrel-leg leggings and relaxed performance pants.
Athleta has embraced the shift toward roomier activewear with styles that offer the same stretch and softness as traditional leggings while creating a more relaxed look. The appeal is obvious: they're comfortable enough for movement but stylish enough to wear throughout the day.
3. Oversized button-downs have become the secret weapon of Pilates style
Athleta's casual layering pieces, especially relaxed shirting and breathable button-down shirts, fit seamlessly into this trend.
How Pilates girls are styling them:
- Open over sports bras
- Layered with biker shorts
- Tied at the waist
- Paired with leggings and sneakers
Retreat Linen Top
Nothing says effortless luxury quite like an oversized button-down shirt.
Whether worn over a sports bra after class or layered with a tank and leggings, the oversized button-down has become one of the defining pieces of the Pilates aesthetic.
The beauty of this staple is its versatility. Crisp styles offer a clean, elevated feel, while lightweight linen versions add a casual coastal vibe that pairs perfectly with activewear.
4. Zip-ups shouldn't be overlooked
Athleta's collection of performance jackets and lightweight zip-ups has become especially popular because the pieces feel polished rather than overly athletic.
The result is a wardrobe staple that works during workouts without screaming "gym clothes."
The appeal:
- Easy layering piece
- Creates a sleek silhouette
- Works year-round
- Pairs with nearly every Pilates outfit
Seasoft Rib 1/4 Zip Popover
If the oversized hoodie dominated previous athleisure eras, today's Pilates crowd is gravitating toward more streamlined zip-up jackets, half-zips and quarter-zips.
A fitted or slightly relaxed zip-up creates a clean, sporty appearance while offering practical layering for chilly studios, early-morning walks, and post-workout errands.
5. Grip socks have become a style statement
Many Pilates fans build entire outfits around subtle color palettes, making coordinated grip socks the finishing touch.
Why they're a must-have:
- Essential for reformer classes
- Adds personality to studio outfits
- Available in endless colors and styles
- Often purchased in multiple pairs
Ruffle Grip Sock
Pilates enthusiasts know grip socks are often a studio necessity, but they've also become part of the culture.
What was once a purely functional item is now an expression of personal style.
From neutral minimalist designs to colorful patterns and embroidered details, shoppers are treating grip socks as an accessory rather than an afterthought.
6. Tennis-inspired skirts are crossing over into Pilates wardrobes
The biggest surprise in the Pilates uniform may be the growing popularity of tennis-inspired skirts and skorts.
Originally associated with court sports, athletic skirts are increasingly appearing in Pilates-inspired wardrobes thanks to their comfort, versatility, and polished appearance.
Why shoppers are buying them:
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Built-in shorts in many styles
- Easy to dress up or down
- Feels sportier than traditional casualwear
Endurance Tennis 14-Inch Skort
Athleta's active skirts and skorts deliver the best of both worlds: performance fabrics that support movement and silhouettes that look elevated enough for everyday wear.
They're quickly becoming a favorite option for days when Pilates is just one stop on a packed schedule.
Is the Pilates wardrobe even about Pilates anymore?
Today's shoppers are increasingly looking for wardrobes that prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. They want clothes that work for workouts, errands, travel, brunch and beyond.
Athleta's strongest styles tap directly into that demand, offering versatile pieces that blur the line between activewear and everyday fashion.
So while leggings remain a cornerstone of the Pilates uniform, they're no longer the whole story. Wrap tops, oversized button-downs, zip-ups, grip socks, barrel-leg silhouettes and tennis-inspired skirts are helping define the next chapter of studio-to-street style—and Pilates girls can't seem to get enough of them.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pilates girls swear by these wardrobe staples—and they're not all leggings
