It feels like there’s no escaping Pilates these days. Online, videos of self-proclaimed “Pilates Princesses” heading to class have gone viral. Offline, celebs like Lori Harvey and Hailey Bieber seem to be constantly hitting the streets in their favorite studios. Even if you’ve never attended a class yourself, you’ve probably thought about it at least once. Whether you’re a reformer pro or have no idea what to expect, the question of what to wear to Pilates is one we can help with. To help reduce stress and eliminate anxiety before you hit the studio, we asked the experts for their thoughts on how to succeed at Pilates and the best essentials to have in your bag after class.
Like yoga, Pilates focuses on posture, balance, and flexibility to get you in shape. This means that your exercise attire must be comfortable, unrestrictive (there’s a lot of bending, stretching, and twisting), form-fitting (a fitted top is essential so your instructor can see your muscles moving while you work out), and, of course, breathable and sweat-wicking. And one more important thing: Pilates is usually done barefoot or with grip socks, so there’s no need to buy the right sneakers. Still wondering what regulars bring to the studio? We’ve compiled the details below.
When we think of a Pilates professional—someone with years of experience, a wealth of knowledge, and the aesthetic sense to show for it—Georgia Wood Murphy is the first name that comes to mind. Founder of the private and semi-private Tera Studio & Pilates Club in New York City, Wood Murphy is a Reformer-certified Pilates instructor with over four years of experience and a client list that includes some of Manhattan’s biggest names.
Prior to opening Terra, Wood-Murphy taught at several studios around the city, including celebrity-favorite Forma Pilates, while working full time as a consultant. “The word Terra comes from the Latin word ‘statera,’ which means ‘balance,'” she tells Who What Wear. “The goal of Terra is to achieve balance in both mind, body, and soul. Ultimately, I wanted to create a great space where clients could come, train hard, and be surrounded by like-minded people who want to do the same thing. At Terra, we create a community that doesn’t end when class is over.” So, shop all the Pilates and post-Pilates essentials that Wood-Murphy’s clients always wear to class.
“I love the detailing on this onesie. It has the perfect collegiate vibe.”
H&M
Jersey Headbands 2 Pack
“Accessories are a great way to jazz up your everyday Pilates look. I love this headband for a ’90s vibe.”
Salomon
XT-6 Rubber Trim Mesh Sneakers
“They’re the only sneakers I own. They’re definitely on trend right now and go great with my Pilates Grip Socks.”
Beyond Yoga
Space Dye Slim Racerback Cropped Tank
“Definitely the most flattering workout top. There’s always at least one person wearing it in a Tera class. The material is soft and the length is perfect for pairing with high-waisted leggings. Another great piece for everything from Pilates to brunch.”
Split 59
River High Waist Air Weight Stirrup
“The ultimate leggings that can go from Pilates to brunch. I love pairing them with ballet flats or loafers after class.”
totem
Textured Leather Tote
“The ultimate carry-all bag. You can always have your sneakers, resistance bands, makeup bag and more in this bag.”
Heavenly Mayhem
Ribbed Earrings
“Heaven Mayhem is the quintessential way to effortlessly accent any outfit, and I like to keep a pair of statement earrings in my bag to slip on after (or before) class.”
Salt & Stone
Bergamot & Hinoki Aluminum-Free Clear Gel Deodorant for Sensitive Skin
“I’ve tried most natural deodorants and Salt & Stone is the best. I love the bergamot and cypress scent and the packaging is so chic.”
Writer
Definitive Lifting Toner
“This toner is perfect to spritz after a sweaty workout class to kill bacteria and prevent breakouts. The packaging is great too.”
Hotel du Cap Eden Roc x Sporty & Rich
Hotel du Cap Cursive Hat
“It’s a great way to quickly address post-wash hair as well as post-Pilates hair. Another varsity-style hat that I love.”
Frankie Shop
Demi Blazer
“This is my favorite blazer from Frankie Shop. Unfortunately, a lot of these blazers wrap me up, but this one is perfect. Just throw this on over leggings or a dress and it instantly upgrades your Pilates look.”
Aro
Alosoft High Waist Iconic 90s Capri
“I love capris for spring and summer. ALO’s capris melt on your body like butter. They’re perfect for those days when it’s too hot for leggings but too cold for biker shorts.”
Hiredose
Red Light Face Mask
“It’s my post-Pilates ritual. This mask does so much for my skin and it inspires me to just lie down and relax for a few minutes, which is something I always need.”
Maison Athle
Bracelet Lestes Cheville & Poigner
“If you type ‘chic ankle weights’ into Google, this is exactly what pops up. These weights come straight from Paris and come in the coolest colors.”
kite
Small Elena bag in off-white pebble leather
“I just bought this bag and I love how even though it’s small it still holds all my post-class essentials like deodorant, hairbrush, make-up, pilates socks, etc.”
Receipt
Margo cotton-jersey T-shirt
“My absolute favorite basic white t-shirt that I can throw on for any excuse. I love to wear it after class over a dress and basic black leggings, paired with a blazer or oversized jacket. When I’m getting ready for brunch, I need some simple workout wear.”
Mason Pearson
Pocket Brush
“I’ve been using Mason Pearson hairbrushes for years and they’re the best, especially for greasy, sweaty hair. Just a few seconds of brushing leaves my hair feeling cleaner (especially after Pilates). The mini size makes them perfect to throw in your bag.”
Saiye
Slip Tint Lightweight Tinted Moisturizer with Mineral Zinc SPF 35 and Hyaluronic Acid
“I hate wearing heavy makeup during class, but when I do want to wear a little makeup every once in a while, the Saie Slip Tint is my go-to. It’s so lightweight and has the perfect amount of coverage and shine.”
Summer Friday
Moisturizing and radiant lip butter balm
“Like most of my customers, I love the Summer Friday Lip Butter Balm. I have all the colors, but vanilla is my favorite for daytime lessons.”
“If I lost my Oura Ring tomorrow, I would buy a new one immediately. I love that it tracks my steps, activity and most importantly, my sleep.”
kite
Grizzo oversized denim jacket
“You can’t go wrong with Khaite. Pair it over biker shorts and a onesie and it’s the perfect jacket for spring or cool summer days.”
reform
Bethany Ballet Flats
“Terra Red! I love this color instead of chocolate brown in the summer. It’s an easy, comfortable shoe to slip on after class and takes any workout to the next level.”
Mew Mew
Miu Regard oval acetate sunglasses
“A good pair of sunglasses can instantly elevate any outfit. I’m obsessed with Miu Miu sunglasses this summer.”
Revive Active
Peekaboo Cutout Onesie
“This dress is so flattering and the material is amazing. I like to pair it with an oversized blazer and flats for post-Pilates meetings.”
merit
Flash Balm Cream Blush
“This is another one I always have in my bag. It’s the easiest blush to apply and the color is amazing. Just dab it on with your finger after class for a rosy glow.”
Rose Co., Ltd.
Brow Renew Enriched Clear Shaping Gel
“I normally don’t wear makeup in class, but Aji Saks (the brow queen) introduced me to this product and it’s amazing! I use it every morning to shape my brows. It’s a small step that always makes me feel more put together.”
