Welcome to our complete expert guide on what to wear to yoga!
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced yogi, the right clothing can make all the difference in your practice. In this guide we will discuss why it is important to dress appropriately for yoga, what types of clothes are best suited for a yoga class and provide tips on how to choose the perfect yoga outfit.
Up to 500,000 Brits are taking part in yoga classes each week and 80% of yoga students are female.That's a lot of people practising yoga who need the right clothing!
We also have suggestions on where you can find stylish and comfortable pieces that will make you stand out from the crowd. From leggings and crop top sets to bras and sweatshirts, we've got you covered when it comes time for choosing the perfect wardrobe for your next yoga session. So let's get started!
Why you need yoga clothing
Wearing the appropriate clothing is crucial when practising yoga. It helps you feel focused and confident in addition to being comfortable in the different poses. Good yoga attire should be not only comfortable but also stylish and practical.
Yoga clothing should be long-lasting and of high quality. To make sure that your clothing will survive the rigours of regular practice, look for items with reinforced seams and high-quality fabrics. To ensure that your clothes look their best for as long as possible, it's also important to buy items that are machine washable and low maintenance.
Additionally, yoga attire must be adaptable enough to be used outside of the studio. To ensure that you can wear your purchases to work, out on the town, or just relaxing at home, look for items that can be dressed up or down. This will enable you to maximise the value of your purchase and the longevity of your yoga attire.
What To Wear to Yoga: 4 top tips
Avoid underwear or swimwear as an outfit
We know this might seem like an obvious one, but it’s worth mentioning: do not wear your swimwear (or underwear!) as an outfit to your yoga class. People will appreciate you respecting the space and dressing appropriately for a public class, so unless you're headed to yoga on the beach, it's best to leave the bikini at home and go for the yoga-wear instead.
Not only this, but without the right coverage and support throughout your class, it can be difficult to maintain your focus on the practice. The last thing you want is to feel too self conscious when you're trying to relax, so a light and breathable outfit is always your best bet.
For classes you know are going to be a little hotter, you can always go for a well-supported funky patterned sports bra and some breathable shorts - but don't forget a t-shirt or sweatshirt for when things cool down in that final Savasana!
Choose clothing that fits comfortably
Another crucial factor to consider when choosing your yoga outfit is to make sure that it fits you comfortably. Comfortable clothes can make or break your practice, especially if it's your first yoga class.
You want something that won’t hinder your movements, so aim for clothes that are neither too tight nor too loose. Remember: your clothes should fit your body, not the other way around.
When selecting a top, look for fabrics with good support that provide a good fit - like stretchy, fitted tees - especially if you plan on doing inversions like headstands or shoulder stands. We've all been there, but a loose t-shirt falling in your face is a sure fire way to throw off your balance!
When it comes to choosing leggings, try to find something that is fitted, lightweight and breathable - like a pair of fitted capris or shorts.
Again, there’s nothing worse than having to keep adjusting your clothes during class! So make sure you pick something that fits your body well and won't distract you as you move.
Forget about footwear
When it comes to finding the right shoes for yoga, our advice is simple: leave your socks and sneakers off the mat! While you may want to wear your shoes to the gym or studio, your bare feet should be your go-to for all yoga classes - unless you’re specifically told otherwise.
Bare feet not only provide a better grip on the mat, but also give your feet more freedom to move. This can help with balance and stability in poses like tree pose or warrior variations, and will make it easier for you to transition through vinyasa sequences with more flexibility in the feet.
Wear clean clothing
Particularly if you're practising yoga in a yoga studio or gym, try to wear clothing that's clean.
Even better, take your favourite body spray or essential oils with you to soothe your senses during your practice. The senses can be a powerful tool to focus on during your practice, so be sure to create an environment that's conducive to a mindful experience.
Remember, yoga is about being in the present moment and while you move - so why not make it even more enjoyable with a few little touches?
Not only will it help you feel focused, refreshed and more energised, but it will keep you and others around from being distracted by strong smells during practice.
What To Wear to a Yoga Class: Yoga Outfit Ideas
Yoga pants/yoga leggings
You don't see people rocking up to yoga in jeans for good reason - they just don't work for yoga. When it comes to yoga clothes, gym leggings or yoga pants are essential components.
You may also be thinking, leggings or shorts?
Look for high-quality yoga leggings that fit snugly, but allow you to move freely in all directions. If you're feeling brave opt for some printed leggings, or some that catch the eye.
Look for a breathable, sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabric - like our Buttery-Soft Microfibre Yarn (82% polyester, 18% spandex) - that provides a four-way stretch and all the comfortable movement you need. You also want to make sure you choose the right size of yoga leggings.
If you're in a warm location, capri leggings may be more suitable for hatha yoga, Iyengar yoga and other gentle yoga types, while more intense stretching routines like vinyasa yoga or ashtanga yoga may benefit from yoga shorts instead to keep you cool.
We've also got a handy guide on what to wear with yoga pants, and even some top picks for leggings for more curvy figures.
Sports bras
A great sports bra can make or break a yoga practice. Not only does it keep the important places covered in downward dog, a good yoga bra can also provide that much-needed support during poses that require a lot of movement.
Choose a yoga sports bra with adjustable straps and a soft material like a polyester and spandex microfibre blend, which offers flexibility and breathability without sacrificing on style or comfort. This way, you can customise your fit and be sure that your yoga bra won't impede your movements – just make sure you get your sports bra size right.
Pair your sports bra with matching leggings and a cute sweatshirt and voila - you have a stylish and comfortable yoga outfit that will keep you supported throughout your practice.
Yoga tops
Another useful piece of yoga apparel to have in your wardrobe is some yoga tops. You don't want to be caught in the gym studio with the AC cranked up and an uncomfortably cold hour ahead of you.
Whether you prefer crop tops, stretchy tees or sweatshirts, make sure that you look for something comfortable, lightweight and breathable, so it won't interfere with your movements or restrict you in any way.
With the perfect top to finish off your outfit, you can take on any yoga challenge with confidence and comfort. So, pick something that makes you feel good and is easy to move in - and go get your downward dog on!
Yoga socks
Though barefoot yoga is the ideal option, you may want to invest in a pair of yoga socks if you're looking for added warmth or protection on cold winter days.
Look for thick yet stretchy materials that will provide grip and traction while allowing your feet to move freely and keep their grip throughout different yoga poses. Specialist yoga socks should be made of an anti-slip fabric so you can focus on your practice and stay secure, no matter how tricky the pose gets.
Yoga mat
Finally, don't forget to bring a yoga mat with you too - a must-have for every yoga enthusiast.
While not technically yoga attire, you can pair your own personal yoga mat with a cute yoga mat carrier to wear to and from yoga class!
Look for something that is light enough to carry around yet provides adequate cushioning, stability and grip during your practice. By taking your own mat to class, you can ensure your own comfort and hygiene - making your yoga practice as enjoyable and peaceful as possible.
What to Wear To Hot Yoga Classes
As we've highlighted throughout this guide, the right yoga clothing can make all the difference - and this also applies to any hot yoga class.
Our top tips on What To Wear To Hot Yoga include:
- Always wear breathable fabrics for a sweaty class: this will help keep you cool and make sure that your clothing won't irritate your skin.
- For ladies, opt for a supportive sports bra: during a vigorous hot yoga practice, you don't want to be constantly adjusting or worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.
- Choose lightweight fabrics with four-way stretch: this will keep you comfortable while allowing unrestricted movement during poses.
- Capri leggings are in style and the way forward! Opt for capri leggings if you can to let your skin breathe!
- Pack a spare set of yoga clothes and body spray for after: this way, you can have a quick change after your class and freshen up before you go out into the world again.
- Take a yoga towel with you: a yoga towel is designed to go over your mat and keep you from slipping due to moisture.
Looking For High-Quality, Ethical Yoga Wear?
Ultimately, yoga clothing is all about how you feel, not what you look like. So when it comes to yoga clothing brands, we recommend choosing one that uses a buttery soft yarn, like our Microfibre Yarn, that is ethically produced and moisture-wicking for ultimate comfort.
At Loony Legs, we pride ourselves on providing yoga clothing that balances style with sustainability, comfort and practicality. Our range of funky patterned yoga leggings, sports bras, stretchy tees and more are made from premium quality materials specifically designed for your comfort and flexibility - so you can always feel your best.
Check out our full range of ethically made yoga wear today, and find the perfect style for you!
What to wear to yoga FAQs
What should you not wear to yoga?
As a general guide, you should avoid wearing swimwear, dirty clothes and any clothing that doesn't fit you comfortably for yoga. You should also avoid restrictive, unbreathable clothing that won't allow you to move freely.
Do you have to be barefoot for yoga?
No, you don't have to be barefoot for yoga - although this is the preferred option for many. If you'd like extra warmth or protection on cold days, then you can opt for a pair of thicker yet stretchy yoga socks that provide grip and traction.
What do you wear to a yoga class?
Many yoga classes will be held in gyms or studios that can get quite warm. So it's best to wear breathable fabrics, like polyester or spandex, that allow air flow and won't stick to your skin when you start sweating. For ladies, a supportive sports bra is also recommended.
