“I know it’s a goodie if my boyfriend says, ‘You look like you’re going hiking but also to a wine bar’.”
I can always spot the Pilates girlies from a mile away. Whether it’s on the tram or speed-walking to class, most of us opt for the same uniform: leggings, a matching sports top, and a drink bottle, keys and phone all somehow super-gripped in one hand.
For as long as I can remember, leggings have reigned supreme when it comes to exercise. And not for no reason – they’re comfortable, versatile and built to withstand all kinds of lunges and reformer Pilates contortions. But where’s the creativity?
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Sure, for some people, waking up and mindlessly slipping on an exercise uniform of Lycra is exactly what’s needed. If you’re the type who favours high-intensity cardio, then sweat-wicking activewear could be the way to go. For others, the idea of having to always wear body-hugging exercise clothes is nightmarish. Thankfully, there is no set uniform when it comes to working out. There’s no one stopping you from donning an oversized T-shirt or a flowy, cotton blouse if that’s what makes you feel the best.
None of this had actually occurred to me, though, until I came across Georgia Lucy’s videos on TikTok. A physiotherapist and teacher at Good Times Pilates in Fitzroy, Georgia’s series, ‘wearing anything but Lycra to teach Pilates’, made me completely rethink what I thought was possible to wear for my weekly reformer class.
@georgialucyc Trying not to flash clients in my big baggy shorts was a challenge today 🙃 Shorts @DISSH Jumper @Uniqlo Australia Shoes @WoodchuckSato Studio @Good Times Pilates #ootd #getdressedwithme #pilates #reformerpilates #autumnfashion ♬ SOINLOVEWITHUUUUU!!!!! – 9th Wonder
Comfort is key
“I am all about comfort, in all aspects of my life – in what I wear and how I move, ” Georgia tells me. “I’ve always loved clothes but found that my work stereotypically led me to only wear form-fitting activewear and I was missing out on wearing other pieces. Sometimes as a bloated girlie, I just want to wear a pair of baggy pants!”
When it comes to choosing non-active workout wear, Georgia says it’s about listening to your body. “That goes for the way you move, the way you advocate for yourself and your needs, and the way you dress. Our bodies are all different and incredible in their own ways and being true to yourself and comfortable, whatever that means to you, is the most important thing.”
@georgialucyc The temptation to wear leggings is building, but my clothes are thanking me for showing them the world 🤪 Studio @Good Times Pilates #ootd #casualoutfits #getdressedwithme #outfit #outfitinspo #pilates ♬ Back To One – Peggy Gou
Non-leggings workout essentials
Though exercise clothes typically come in a matching set, Georgia says you can just as easily lean into the mismatched nature of your existing wardrobe. “Think track pants with a blouse and flip flops, or structured pants with a baby T-shirt,” she tells me. Above all, she’s big on oversized pieces for comfort and movement.
In terms of individual items, Georgia says she most frequently finds herself reaching for a pair of wide-leg trackpants, slouchy cotton pants in a fun colour, a T-shirt, an oversized button-up shirt (worn open or done up), and a pair of shorts – mini or Bermuda. And let’s not forget a comfortable bra.
“I know it’s a goodie if my boyfriend says, ‘You look like you’re going hiking but also to a wine bar… I’m confused’.”
Fabrics and materials
Whether you prefer a cardio workout or something slow and stretchy, it’s also worth keeping an eye out for lightweight and breathable materials. Synthetic fabrics are designed to trap moisture and sweat most effectively but they’ll also need washing more often. Cotton, on the other hand, is usually able to be worn two to three times before washing.
“I try to mostly only buy and wear natural fibres,” Georgia adds. “I find they’re the most comfortable and breathable when moving and teaching. I love cotton poplin, linen and wool but I’ll sacrifice on this for my Adidas track pants! They’re also a staple, regardless.”
@georgialucyc This puppy is the ultimate thief atm Pants in high rotation/multiple colours @adidas Top @deijistudios #ootd #getdressedwithme #casualoutfits #adidas #puppy ♬ Monky Disco – Babe Rainbow
The best Australian labels to look to
Georgia’s favourite labels of choice are Australian brands, Deiji Studios and Nagnata. “If I could have my wardrobe be full of two labels, it would be them.”
She also gravitates towards My Mum Made It for fun blouses and Laneway the Label for other lightweight pieces. “I’m also always searching second-hand stores for big button-down shirts,” Georgia says.
If you still want to incorporate some activewear into your workout wardrobe, Georgia points towards Pinky and Kamal for its range of natural fibre workout clothes, flowy pants and loose tops.
A dream Pilates outfit (sans Lycra)
“Nagnata or Adidas track pants, a Nagnata woollen bodysuit and a cotton Deiji over-shirt,” Georgia says.
For more on the shift away from leggings and activewear, try this.