What To Wear To Yoga: 6 Outfits

One of my favorite ways to exercise and clear my mind is through yoga. This enriching practice leaves me feeling relaxed and energized at the same time. Even though I’m working out, it doesn’t mean I can’t look and feel good.

I’m here today to share with you my top six favorite activewear outfits to wear when practicing yoga.

History of the Practice of Yoga

What exactly is yoga? Many are familiar with what the practice of yoga is but not with how it originated.

Yoga is a group of mental, physical, and even spiritual practices that originated in India roughly 5,000 years ago.

Generally, yoga started as a breathing exercise more than a physical workout, but the details are fluid. There is no specific consensus for when and how exactly yoga was developed. 

What To Wear To Yoga: 6 Outfits

One of my favorite ways to exercise and also clear my mind is through yoga. This enriching practice leaves me feeling relaxed and energized at the same time. Even though I’m working out doesn’t mean I can’t look and feel good.

I’m here today to share with you my top six favorite outfits to wear when practicing yoga:

Why Practice Yoga?

What is the big draw to practicing yoga, and why is it so popular worldwide?

Well, this form of exercise is great for mental (and physical) health. This low-impact exercise can help reduce stress hormones while also increasing the feel-good chemicals in our bodies, such as endorphins. Even a quick ten-minute practice and start or end or day on a better note.

Yoga is also a fantastic way to squeeze in daily exercise and increase flexibility. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy your typical workout, yoga is the perfect solution.

Yoga Essentials

When you’re headed to a yoga class, or even if you like to practice on your own at home with resources like YouTube videos, there are some essentials you’ll want to have on hand.

Let’s chat about all the yoga essentials you’ll want to collect:

Yoga Mat

The most vital tool you’ll need when practicing yoga is a yoga mat. Yoga mats are made with specially-crafted fabric to grip the floor from the bottom and keep your hands and feet steady and in place on the top. Some materials include vinyl or plastic or more environmentally-friendly options like recycled rubber, natural rubber, organic/natural cotton, and more. 

Mats prevent you from slipping when moving to and from various yoga positions. You wouldn’t want to be in downward dog without a yoga mat!

Blocks

A yoga block or brick is another important tool in yoga practice. Blocks are typically made from hard foam and are used as a prop when practicing yoga. 

Blanket

You’ll find that most yoga studios have blankets among their repertoire. Blankets can be used in place of yoga bricks in many ways. There are also yogis who encourage the use of blankets at the end of practice or for a more relaxing and soothing session to encourage comfort.

Sports Bra

When it comes to yoga essentials, we have to talk about essential clothing. A solid sports bra is always a necessity for any yogi, from beginner to expert. Sports bras are practical — but also super adorable. 

Leggings

Leggings are another yoga essential for any yogi. I love to buy matching sets of leggings and sports bras.

This ensures comfort and flexibility while also looking cute. Not to mention, it’s an easy way to guarantee you can get ready quickly, as your outfit is already made for you.

Slip-on Shoes

Slip-on shoes are my go-to when I head to yoga class. They’re easy to put on and off between traveling to class and the actual practice. I recommend a chic yet sturdy sandal when you’re headed out to yoga practice. 

Six Yoga Outfit Ideas

Now, let’s talk about my favorite topic: outfit ideas for yoga class!

There are so many different types of athleisure to wear to yoga practice, but I want to share some of my top favorite ideas for practicing yoga.

Leggings and Crop Top

Leggings are a yoga staple, so if you aren’t stocked up with a variety of leggings, you’ll want to be. I like to wear my leggings with a sports bra and a crop top popped over it. You can wear a casual flowy crop top for a comfy cool look or a tight-fitted crop top for a sleek workout outfit.

You can also wear your leggings with just your sports bra. I like to wear this to yoga class when I have a matching set of leggings and a sports bra. This leaves my outfit looking put-together and cute, while I only had to put in minimal effort. It’s even upscale enough to wear to a casual brunch with the besties after!

Bike Shorts With Sports Bra

Another well-loved bottom for yoga and working out, in general, is bike shorts, otherwise known as cycling shorts. Bike shorts were originally made for bikers to improve comfort and efficiency while cycling, but they’re also a great bottom for yoga and other workouts.

I like to pair my bike shorts with a sports bra. Sometimes I wear a loose fitted top over my sports bra, but other times I’ll wear just the bike shorts and sports top. This is an especially great outfit if you’re practicing hot yoga.

Athletic Dress/Tennis Dress

One item that has been raging in popularity with the rise in popularity of athleisure is the athletic dress.

Athletic dresses typically have a pair of shorts (and often bra sets) sewn in, so you don’t have to risk exposure in any flexible or odd poses. They’re a great way to look fabulous while also remaining comfortable and flexible for your yoga session.

Tennis Skirt With Sports Bra

Another popular item recently has been the tennis skirt. Tennis skirts have come back into fashion in general, but they’re also a fantastic item to wear to yoga.

I recommend a tennis skirt (or tennis dress) made from a flexible material with shorts sewn in. I always pair my tennis skirt with a sports bra, which makes for another fabulous outfit for hot yoga.

Track Pants and Crop Top

Not everyone is a fan of skin-tight workout gear, which I can totally get. When I’m looking for a more casual outfit for yoga, I turn to my track pants. These comfortable pants are still a great option when practicing yoga. I pair my track pants with a sports bra and a loose crop top.

Athletic Jacket To Complete the Look

There are days in the year, especially in colder months, when you’ll need a jacket when you travel to yoga class. There are also some yoga studios that keep their temperatures low, so you may find that when beginning the class, you’d like an extra layer of warmth. 

This is when an athletic jacket comes in handy.

I like to find a breathable yet warm athletic jacket for those cold yoga sessions. It’s also handy to have for other exercises, like jogging in colder months or traveling to and from the gym. I will toss an athletic jacket over any of the above-mentioned outfits. 

Looking and Feeling Good With Yoga

One of my favorite ways to destress and move my body is through yoga. It calms my mind, boosts my mood, and is great for my physical health as well. As with every activity, I love to look my best as well.

This is why I’ve created this list of six outfit ideas for yoga to inspire you and leave you feeling excited about your next yoga practice.

Sources:

The Benefits of Yoga: How It Boosts Your Mental Health | Houston Methodist On Health

How Did Athleisure Take Over American Fashion? | The Atlantic

Hot Yoga Benefits: Science-Backed Facts and Safety Tips | Healthline

When did yoga originate? | Live Science