I'm Always the Best-Dressed Person in the Yoga Studio—Here Are My 7 Outfit Formulas

Elle

5 days ago

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I've been practicing yoga since third grade, when my mother sat me down and told me I had to do an extracurricular activity other than reading. Never one for competition or team sports, I countered with the one hobby that interested me most. Now, where I had even learned about yoga at that age, I have no idea. But nevertheless, so it began. Some 18 years later, I've had ample time to perfect the art of the best yoga outfits.
But if my own practice isn't cutting it for you, I also tapped Kate Davies Durand, founder and director of YO BK studios, to lend her expertise. According to her, high-waisted leggings or shorts and a cropped bra are the winning formula. 'I'm looking for high-quality, lightweight fabrics in a design that I don't have to readjust,' she says, offering a warning about the scourge of poor-quality garments out there. 'There is way too much see-through yoga clothing on the market that gets even worse when you sweat! Just because they make it, doesn't mean you should wear it.' Amen to that. Without further ado, see (and shop) seven yoga outfit ideas below.
A Onesie
Personally, I love a one-piece for my practice. This way, I don't have to readjust my waistband every so often, and it eliminates the issue of my top riding up during inversions like downward dog. Not to mention, it makes picking my outfit a simple decision. Lately, I've been wearing my favorite washable clogs to class, which are also Jennifer Lawrence–approved.
The Set
Coordinating sets seem to be the most popular option these days, as popularized by the rise of social media's 'Pilates princess.' And I don't blame them! A matching duo requires no thought and always looks darling. If you aren't the bike short and sports bra type, fear not; sets come in all varieties, be it wide-leg pants or a full hoodie.
Cuffed Pants
It's my opinion that if you aren't wearing a fitted bottom (like bike shorts or leggings), a cuffed style is your next best choice. Why? Because the cuffs will keep the pant legs from getting in your way. Billowing silhouettes might look nice, but they can be impractical. I'm a big fan of these ultra-lightweight Commando joggers that feel loose through the leg but still cinch at the ankle.
Your Favorite T-Shirt
As for Davies Durand, she encourages infusing personality into your looks. 'Wear what attracts you!' she says. 'Your yoga practice is such a fun and free time to express yourself. Have an old concert shirt you love? Cut off the sleeves and make it a crop you can practice in or throw on after class. As silly as it sounds, wearing your favorite outfit can get you excited to practice. For me, it's boxer braids, gold hoops, and leopard leggings. When I show up in this, my students know it's going to be a certain type of class.'
Cozy Sweats
Sometimes, you just have to show up in your pajamas. For those days when you can barely get yourself to leave the house, don't punish yourself. It's perfectly fine to rock your favorite sweatpants to class—period. But if you want to zhuzh them up a bit, that can be cute, too. Try a fashion-forward brami (bra + cami) and a trendy scrunchie to add some flair.
Stretchy Shorts
Not everyone is comfortable showing their legs, but for those who are, bike shorts are a top-notch choice. They provide the same fuss-free, body-hugging compression as leggings, but with even less bulk, which might be of particular interest to anyone practicing hot yoga. Stay comfortable, yogis.
Fitted Long-Sleeves
Alternatively, maybe you don't like going sleeveless. There are plenty of people who would never consider stepping out in public in just an athletic bra or even a tank top. Actually, I think long-sleeve tops work just as well for yoga. But, again, they should be relatively snug, so as not to bunch up or slide around.
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