‘Pilates Princess’ is trending! Here’s what to wear to your next workout

We are officially in our soft era


by Emma Hawkins |
Published on

Move over ‘hot girl walk’ because there’s a new fitness trend taking over and it’s not just a workout, it’s a whole damn lifestyle. The Pilates Princess aesthetic is exactly what you think it is: someone who spends their time exercising, chugging green juice, and living a ‘soft’ life – while their looks, often comprised of matching co-ords, leg warmers and headbands scream femininity, blending ballerina-core with coquette fashion.

Think girly, pink playsuits, oversized pull-overs and flared leggings so cute, you’d almost want to save it for days you’re not working out. But that’s the point, right? It’s not about getting a sweat on – it’s about making others sweat, with your impeccable style. If Gen Z has anything to do with it, gone are the days of lifting heavy weights in a gym. These days, all the cool girls are raving about the reformer instead.

So how can you adopt this Pilates Princess lifestyle? And what should you wear to class? Well firstly, you need to look the part – and that’s where we come in! From Bo & Tee and Gymshark to PrettyLittleThing and ASOS, we’ve rounded up our top finds to help you tap into this trend whatever your budget.

What to wear to Pilates 2023:

PrettyLittleThing seamless bust seam detail sports jacketPrettyLittleThing

If you spend a lot of time on TikTok, you've probably seen these zip-up sports jackets making the rounds. With a flattering, waist-cinching fit and comfortable long-sleeve design, we can see why.

ASOS 4505 square neck soft touch spaghetti strap all in oneASOS

With a flattering square neckline and spaghetti straps, what's not to love about this all-in-one?

PrettyLittleThing dusty pink basic seamless jacketPrettyLittleThing

PrettyLittleThing always gets it right. This dusty pink jacket paired with the matching leggings is Pilates Princess at its finest. Just throw on a fabric headband and you're ready to go.

Gymshark X Libby Sports BraGymshark

Available from XXS to XXL with a plunge neckline and racerback detail, this pretty lilac sports bra is a must-have in any pilates princess' workout wardrobe. You can pick up the matching shorts too!

lululemon align asymmetrical bra in riverstonelululemon
Price: £24 (was £48)

www.lululemon.co.uk

For good quality activewear, we can always rely on Lululemon. Take this sports bra for example. It's buttery soft, feels weightless and is sweat-wicking, with lycra fibre for stretch and shape retention.

Adanola ultimate ruched front longline tank topAdanola
Price: £34.99

adanola.com

If you dislike sports bras, Adanola have a great selection of tops in longer lengths, which are perfect for pilates. We love this marshmallow white one, but it also comes in black. We'll take one of each, thanks!

Adanola ultimate sleeveless romper in coffee beanAdanola
Price: £42.99

adanola.com

For extra support, why not opt for a romper? This one has a hidden zip, is super stretchy and squat-proof. You could always wear it outside of the gym too come summer! The ultimate investment.

PrettyLittleThing Sand Sculpt Yoga SkirtPrettyLittleThing
Price: £9.50 (was £21)

www.prettylittlething.com

Okay, so not the most practical option – but it's cute, right? Perfect for wearing after your workout or during with some cycling shorts underneath, it's giving ballerina vibes.

This might just be our fave jacket yet. Why? Well, it's got a handy hidden pocket in the back for your phone and features a tapered waist for a snatched, corset effect. It's also made from recycled material.

PrettyLittleThing Plus Acid Wash Seamless Rib Flare Yoga PantsPrettyLittleThing
Price: £6.75 (was £25)

www.prettylittlething.com

Not only are flared yoga pants super comfortable, making them more practical for pilates, but they're flattering too. We love this khaki pair which can be teamed with the matching top and jacket. Love!

Bo + Tee oversized hooded sweatshirt in light grey melangeBo + Tee

Could this hoodie scream 'Pilates Princess' any more? It's literally written on the front. Perfect for chucking on after your stretching sesh for your post-workout matcha, it comes in cream and navy too.

No pilates look is complete without a cute headband and this one from ASOS is an absolute bargain at just £6.

Emma Hawkins is a Style Writer at Bauer Media UK and specialises in all things fashion and beauty.

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