Beginner’s Yoga Checklist: Yoga Outfit and what Bring to Class
Have you ever arrived at a yoga class wearing a shirt that felt too tight during downward dog?
Yeah, same. Starting yoga is exciting—until you realize you have no idea what to wear or bring.
Should you rock those old gym shorts? Are socks allowed? And what on earth is a yoga block?
Breathe easy, friend. I’ve been through the yoga wardrobe struggle, and I’m here to share the good, the bad, and the hilariously unnecessary.
⇒ Note: Yoga Accessories for Beginners
Let’s have an honest discussion about what to wear and bring to yoga, avoiding unnecessary details (and ensuring no one flashes anyone mid-pose).
Let’s face it—yoga clothes serve a specific purpose.
Most yogis (myself included) stick with snug-fitting pieces like yoga tops, leggings, and sports bras. Why?
Your baggy tee flapping in your face during downward dog is the last thing you want while you’re flowing through poses.
Alternatively, imagine your foot becoming entangled in the excess fabric during warrior pose. Yep, it happens. 😂
Lululemon Align Full Length Yoga Pants - High-Waisted Design, 28 Inch Inseam
- Lightweight, buttery-soft Nulu fabric wicks sweat and is four-way stretch, Added Lycra Fibre For Stretch And Shape Retention
- Naked Sensation -Engineered To Feel Like Your Go-To, Lightweight, SecondSkin Layer-You'll Forget You're Wearing This Next-To-Nothing Sensation As You Move
- Waistband Storage -Pocket On The Waistband Holds Your Key Or Card
- Comfortable Waistband - Lies Flat Against Your Skin And Won't Dig In
Price: $110.00 - $127.00
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Fitted yoga gear keeps everything in place and lets you focus on your practice without wardrobe distractions.
Plus, this stuff is super comfy. You’ll get a full range of motion, so you can twist, stretch, and balance without feeling restricted.
And hey, if you’re doing a hot vinyasa class (hello, sweat-fest), you’ll definitely want something breathable and moisture-wicking.
⇒ Note: 6 Basic Yoga Poses for Beginners
Trust me, nothing ruins your post-yoga glow like walking out of the studio in a soaking-wet shirt feeling like a human sponge. No, thanks.
Choosing the Right Fabrics
Let’s start with what’s touching your skin for the next 60 minutes: fabric.
Picking the right material can be the difference between breezy flow and soggy meltdown.
Breathability and Moisture-Wicking Properties
Your body’s going to sweat—even in gentle classes. You need clothes that can keep up.
Moisture-wicking fabrics like nylon, polyester, and blends help you stay dry.
Cotton? It soaks up sweat like a sponge and stays wet. Hard pass for anything active.
Pro tip: If you’ve ever tried hot yoga in a cotton tee, you know regret.
Stretching and Flexibility
You’re not just standing there. You’re twisting, folding, stretching, and maybe even balancing on one leg.
Your clothes should move with you.
Look for four-way stretch in leggings or shorts.
If you hear seams cracking mid-pose, it’s time to upgrade.
Comfort and softness
Comfort isn’t optional. Scratchy tags or rough seams will ruin your zen.
Seek soft, seamless designs.
Try everything on before class. Jump around. Test a squat. Don’t let your clothes betray you later.
Tops for Yoga
You’d think any top would work. However, what happens when you’re inverted and your shirt is wrapped around your neck? Not ideal.
• Go for fitted tanks or cropped tops that stay put.
• Built-in bras are a bonus, but only if they actually support you.
• Avoid anything too baggy—unless you want a peekaboo show every time you bend forward.
CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Racerback Workout Tank Tops for Women Tight Sleeveless Camisole Gym Athletic Yoga Shirts
- ATTENTION: No built-in bra
- Designed for yoga or lounge
- Butterluxe fabric features extremely soft and ultra stretchy, engineered for luxurious comfort
- Tight fit, intended to sit between the waist and high hip
- Racerback and scoop neck design allow for full range of motion
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Favorite brands include Vuori, Athleta, and even Old Navy, which has some sneaky good options.
Sports Bras for Yoga
You don’t need max support, but you do need something that holds steady.
• Choose medium support for most classes.
• Look for bras with soft, wide straps that don’t dig into your shoulders.
• Avoid bras with zippers, clasps, or underwires. You’re not in a boxing ring.
Ever wondered why some bras feel like medieval armor? Me too. Keep it simple and comfy.
CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Womens Y Back Sports Bra - Padded Racerback Low Impact Spaghetti Thin Strap Workout Yoga Top
- Designed for yoga. Light support
- Butterluxe collection features extremely soft and ultra stretchy, engineered for luxurious comfort
- A-D Cups. 28-38 underbust best. Built-in removable pads
- Scoop neckline. Elastic band for added support
- Spaghetti straps racerback design for full range of movement
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Bottoms: Leggings, Pants, and Shorts
Bottom line (pun intended): your pants matter.
Leggings or Yoga Pants
These are the MVPs of yoga wear.
• High-waisted = secure and flattering.
• They are sufficiently thick to withstand the squat test.
• Ankle-length or 7/8 are perfect for full coverage without excess fabric.
My go-to: Lululemon Aligns or Colorfulkoala (budget-friendly but solid).
Yoga Shorts
Hot class? You can wear shorts for any occasion.
Look for bike short-style fits with grip at the hem.
• Avoid loose running shorts unless you enjoy flashing strangers.
• The length of the shorts is important; if they are too short, you will be fidgeting throughout the entire class.
Lululemon Womens Athletic Short
- Designed for: Yoga
- Comfortable waistband: Lies flat against your skin and won't dig in
- Hidden pocket: Stash your essentials in the hidden waistband pocket
- Rise style: High Rise
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Layering for Yoga
Yoga starts cold and ends sweaty. Layer like a pro.
• Lightweight hoodies or wraps work great pre- and post-class.
• Choose zip-ups you can take off easily.
• Keep a clean, cozy layer for savasana (nap time, basically).
Accessories for Yoga
You don’t need a trunk full of gear, but a few things make a big difference.
Non-Slip Socks and Towels
• Grip socks are perfect if you’re not ready to go barefoot.
• A mat towel keeps you from sliding into accidental splits during hot yoga.
• Hand towels help when your palms start sweating (because they will).
Other Essentials
• It goes without saying that you need a water bottle. Ideally, it should not leak.
• Yoga mat: Studios often have extras, but having your own? Game changer.
• Use hair ties and headbands to prevent hair from obscuring your face.
• Use mat cleaner spray to keep your equipment fresh (trust me).
What Not to Wear
Now let’s talk wardrobe malfunctions.
Avoid:
• Cotton anything.
• Loose tops that fly up.
• Avoid wearing low-rise leggings unless you enjoy constantly pulling them up.
• Short-shorts that ride up.
• Avoid wearing jewelry that hangs loosely.
• Avoid wearing strong perfumes, especially Chanel No. 5.
FYI: Phones don’t belong in the studio. Mute it. Better yet, leave it in the locker.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Flow (and Your Fit)
Starting yoga can feel a little overwhelming. But once you figure out your go-to outfit and pack, you’ll stop stressing and start flowing.
Key Takeaways
Wear fitted tops, supportive sports bras, and high-waisted leggings; choose soft, moisture-woking, flexible fabrics.
Layer sensibly and pack basics such as a mat, towel, and water. Steer clear of clothing mistakes, jewelry, and cotton.
Remember too: yoga is not a fashion show. Look decent, sure, but feel far better.
Comfort and confidence always come first. See you on the mat, my yogi friend. Simply said, kindly avoid jeans. 🙂
