If you’re worried about your clothes or you’re feeling self-conscious, just know that you’re not alone. Everyone has questions, especially in the beginning. You can read our advice here, or contact me at any time.

Can I wear a t-shirt? A tank top? Gym shorts?

Yes, yes and yes! The most important thing is that you’re comfortable — physically and emotionally — with whatever you choose to wear.

Recommendation #1: Dress to move

Power yoga is a physical practice. You will be moving, stretching and twisting, which means your clothes should allow you to move freely and easily in all directions. While baggy t-shirts are certainly fine, some members wear tighter-fitting clothes, since they don’t get in your way as much during class. For example, during downward dog, a baggy shirt can end up in your face, which can be distracting.

Recommendation #2: Dress for the heat

Our yoga studio is typically 85-90 degrees. Most people sweat during class, especially during the more vigorous classes. You may be more comfortable wearing clothes that are breathable, fits well and will wick the sweat away from your body. You can find these clothes in any sporting goods store, most department stores or online. T-shirts, tank tops, sports bras, yoga pants, capris, tights and shorts are all great choices. (If you do wear shorts, you may want to choose some that are knee length or longer, to help avoid “slippage” in poses where your leg is supporting your arm.) While materials like cotton are OK, they do tend to absorb moisture, which may weigh you down. Some people also choose to wear a headband, to stop the sweat from dripping into their eyes.

What will other people think about my outfit?

At Mind Body Flow Yoga, there is no “right” outfit, because the only person you’re dressing for is you. Here, you’ll see people of all ages, shapes and sizes — which means you’ll see everything from sports bras and tank tops to long sleeves and sweatshirts. While it’s common to think that everyone is looking at you (especially when you’re new), remember that everyone here is focused on their own practice.

What do most people actually wear?

Here’s what you’ll probably see at a yoga studio or an online yoga class: Women (tops)

• Most common: Tank top or sweat-wicking t-shirt
• Also common: Loose t-shirt, long-sleeve shirt, sports bra

Women (bottoms)

• Most common: Yoga pants
• Also common: Tights, capris, shorts

Men (tops)

• Most common: Sweat-wicking t-shirt, tank top or muscle t-shirt
• Also common: Loose t-shirt, long-sleeve shirt or no shirt

Men (bottoms)

• Most common: Gym shorts, sometimes with compression shorts underneath
• Also common: Yoga pants

You don’t have to buy new yoga clothes (unless you want to!)

If you already have clothes that work for you, you’re all set! In fact, we recommend wearing whatever you already have at first, and then buying new clothes only if you need them, after you see what works for you in class.

Watches, smartwatches, fitness trackers and jewelry

You’re welcome to wear any accessories as long as they don’t get in your way or distract others. If you’d like to wear a smartwatch or fitness tracker during class (many members do), please just silence it so it doesn’t beep or buzz during class time. And just be careful with any dangly jewelry that could get caught in your hair or your clothes as you move around.

Going barefoot

Most people go barefoot in class. Being barefoot helps develop your balance, get a better feel for how your body moves, and keep a grip on your mat. If you choose to go barefoot, you can leave your shoes on the floor mat (or in a cubby) near the front door, or remove them and carry them to the cubbies in the back room. Of course, if you prefer not to be barefoot during class, you’re always welcome to keep your socks on. Some companies even make special yoga socks!

A note about modesty

In some poses, you may have a leg (or two) in the air, be squatting down, or be in another pose that can cause your clothes to rise up. To avoid any wardrobe malfunctions, just keep this in mind when you’re deciding what to wear. It’s absolutely fine to show skin — most people do — just try not to expose any more than you would at the beach.

Private changing area

You’re welcome to change into (or out of) your yoga clothes here. We have a private, one-person unisex bathroom that is available at any time before, during or after class.

What to do with your coat, purse, shoes, etc.

We have shelves, cubbies, and hooks at the front of the studio (when you first walk in) and in the back room. Most people leave their personal items in one of these areas. Questions about what to wear? Please get in touchI’m be happy to help.