{"id":2606,"date":"2026-08-07T08:39:52","date_gmt":"2026-08-07T00:39:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/2026\/08\/07\/pilates-hair-is-trending-its-time-to-democratize-the-aesthetic\/"},"modified":"2026-08-07T08:39:52","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T00:39:52","slug":"pilates-hair-is-trending-its-time-to-democratize-the-aesthetic","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nichebeaty.com\/index.php\/2026\/08\/07\/pilates-hair-is-trending-its-time-to-democratize-the-aesthetic\/","title":{"rendered":"Pilates Hair Is Trending\u2014It’s Time to Democratize the Aesthetic"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Pilates of all variations, especially Reformer Pilates, has become a popular workout, so much so that the aesthetic people attribute to the exercise is having a moment of its own. \u201cPilates has become more than just a workout. It’s viewed as a social symbol. Just like the \u2018gym girl\u2019 has her own aesthetic and identity, women are creating the same for Pilates,\u201d says Pilates instructor Callie Gualy. <\/p>\n

Kira Jones, founder of Cacti Wellness, agrees, noting that \u201calthough Pilates has been around for over a century, being a \u2018Pilates girl\u2019 has definitely become an identity and community. So, just like a matching set or cute grip socks, \u2018Pilates hair\u2019 has become a visual shorthand for \u2018I\u2019m part of this.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Drybar reports that searches for \u201cReformer Pilates hair\u201d have surged by 2,549 percent over the past year. We asked Pilates pros and hair experts what Pilates hair means to them and got their top recommendations for the best styles and products to achieve the look.<\/p>\n

Featured Experts<\/h2>\n
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  • Callie Gualy is a Pilates instructor<\/li>\n
  • Kira Jones is the founder of Cacti Wellness<\/li>\n
  • Nicky Lal is a Pilates instructor and the founder of Fuerza Pilates<\/li>\n
  • Johanna Ricouz is a Pilates instructor with Peloton<\/li>\n
  • Margaux Mahoney is the marketing director at Drybar<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    What Is Pilates Hair?<\/h2>\n

    \u201cPilates has evolved from a workout to a lifestyle with Pilates hair as part of the Pilates aesthetic,\u201d says Gualy. \u201cThink of it as a functional-meets-put-together hairstyle.\u201d Furthermore, \u201cSince Pilates is a low-impact workout that’s not cardio-heavy and doesn’t involve jumping around, your hairstyle can actually hold up during class,\u201d says Jones, making it \u201cpossible to walk into class with clean, styled hair, and walk out with it still looking relatively intact.\u201d<\/p>\n

    \u201cPilates hair refers to hairstyles worn for reformer and mat Pilates that keep your hair out of your face while still looking neat and put together. It grew out of the \u2018clean girl\u2019 aesthetic\u2014the slicked-back bun, hair that wouldn\u2019t move and always looked clean and polished,\u201d Jones continues. \u201cDoing my hair has never been my expertise, so having so much inspo of hairstyles that are comfortable and cute to wear during class is a win-win,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n

    \u201cWhen I hear the phrase \u2018Pilates hair,\u2019 I immediately picture the sleek, slicked-back look that’s become popular on social media. It’s beautiful, but I think that’s more of an Instagram trend than a reflection of what happens in a Pilates session,\u201d says Nicky Lal, Pilates instructor and founder of Fuerza Pilates. \u201cMy clients often show up with their hair perfectly styled, and more often than not, we end up changing it halfway through class because it gets in the way. The best Pilates hairstyle is the one you don’t have to think about while you’re moving.\u201d<\/p>\n

    Lal notes that the right hairstyle for your practice ultimately depends on what style of Pilates you\u2019re doing. \u201cIf you’re taking a heated mat class, a bun can make sense, but in Pilates we can spend a lot of time lying on our backs, whether on the mat or on equipment, so a low bun becomes uncomfortable. That’s why I always reach for a claw clip. It lets me put my hair up or take it down so quickly without stopping my workout,\u201d she says. \u201cIn the studio, practicality matters much more than how it looks on camera.\u201d<\/p>\n

    Realistically, any hairstyle you wear while doing Pilates is Pilates hair. The idea of Pilates hair has become somewhat of a marketing concept, influencer tagline, hashtag or fun way to connect within the practice. \u201cWhile I appreciate trends and enjoy seeing how people express themselves through fashion and beauty, I believe the heart of Pilates has very little to do with appearance,\u201d says Johanna Ricouz, a Pilates instructor with Peloton. \u201cFor me, the best Pilates hairstyle is one that allows you to move confidently, feel comfortable and show up as your authentic self. Pilates isn’t about fitting into a particular aesthetic\u2014it’s about celebrating movement and strength,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n

    \u201cHair has always been a deeply meaningful topic within the Black community. For many of us, it’s more than just a hairstyle\u2014it’s an expression of identity, culture, history and pride,\u201d says Ricouz. \u201cThroughout my career, I’ve been intentional about wearing my hair in its natural state because representation matters. As a woman of color, I want people to see themselves reflected in the wellness space, especially in Pilates, where that representation has historically been limited.\u201d<\/p>\n

    The Best Reformer Pilates Hairstyles, According to Pros<\/h2>\n
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    1<\/span> \/ 8<\/span><\/p>\n

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    High Bun or High Ponytail<\/h2>\n

    High buns and high ponytails seem to be the most practical option for many pros. \u201cFrom a practical standpoint, Pilates involves spending a significant amount of time lying on your back in a supine position. Because of that, low buns and low ponytails can become uncomfortable very quickly,\u201d says Ricouz. \u201cWhen I wear my hair up, I almost always choose a high bun or a high ponytail so nothing is pressing against the back of my head or restricting my movement during class.\u201d<\/p>\n

    Drybar marketing director Margaux Mahoney notes that low buns \u201ccan create a hard pressure point that props the head up when lying flat, affecting your form and causing more tension in your neck during an activity that should be correcting and easing it.\u201d She recommends a classic top knot to keep the bulk of the hair at the top of the head, away from the neck and shoulders.<\/p>\n

    \u201cPractically speaking, Pilates hair for me has almost always been a bun or a ponytail. As a former ballerina and a heated Pilates instructor, I naturally adopted the same functional hairstyles I wore throughout years of dance training. They allowed me to move freely without distraction,\u201d says Ricouz.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Johanna<\/p>\n

    Courtesy of Johanna Ricouz<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    2<\/span> \/ 8<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Braids<\/h2>\n

    Jones loves wearing a low braid or a braided high ponytail during Pilates. \u201cFor those with long or thick hair, low French braids or Dutch braids are the best option as they can sit perfectly flat against the head through exercises and transitions,\u201d says Mahoney. \u201cBecause the hair is plaited close to the scalp rather than left loose, braids hold up far better through movements that involve lying on your back or side, without shifting or coming loose halfway through a class.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Kira<\/p>\n

    Courtesy of Kira Jones<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    3<\/span> \/ 8<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Headband<\/h2>\n

    A headband is always a good idea. Jones loves wearing her hair down with a soft headband for Pilates, although you could also pair a headband with poytails, braids and buns as well. The headband helps keep hair out of your face while still allowing your strands to shine.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Kira<\/p>\n

    Courtesy of Kira Jones<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    4<\/span> \/ 8<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Protective Braids<\/h2>\n

    \u201cAs a woman of color with naturally curly hair and an oily scalp, I often alternate between protective braids and wearing my natural curls,\u201d says Ricouz. Protective braids can be worn down or swept into a ponytail or bun. \u201cFinding styles that support both movement and hair health is just as important as choosing something that looks good.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Woman<\/p>\n

    Photo by Chalo Garcia on Unsplash<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    5<\/span> \/ 8<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Claw Clip<\/h2>\n

    One of Jones\u2019 go-to hairstyles is wearing her strands twisted into a claw clip on the crown of her head so it\u2019s out of the way. Lal says she usually begins with her hair down, but always has a claw clip ready to go. \u201cAs soon as I need it out of my face, I can clip it up quick,\u201d says Lal. \u201cBy the end of class it might not look perfect, but I’d rather spend my 50 minute workout focused on movement than fixing my hair.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    Kira Jones x RPZL<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    6<\/span> \/ 8<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Looped Low Ponytail<\/h2>\n

    Think of this look as the infamous Amanda Batula pony-bun but placed by the nape of the neck. \u201cLooped ponytails are a good middle ground for anyone whose hair isn\u2019t quite long enough for a secure braid but still moves around too much in a standard tie,\u201d says Mahoney. \u201cThe loop keeps the tail short and tucked, rather than dangling loose against the mat or catching underneath you during rolling or seated exercises.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"looped<\/p>\n

    Photo by Mohammad reza Razmpour (maMazii)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    7<\/span> \/ 8<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Bandanas<\/h2>\n

    Ricouz says she\u2019s recently incorporated bandanas and scarves into her hair routine. She notes that \u201cthey help absorb sweat and provide an extra layer of protection during heated workouts.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Johanna<\/p>\n

    Courtesy of Johanna Ricouz<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    8<\/span> \/ 8<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Slicked-Back Ponytail<\/h2>\n

    This slicked-back style is probably one of the classic looks you picture when you think of Pilates hair. \u201cI’m a huge fan of a slicked-back pony when I teach or take Pilates,\u201d says Gualy, who points to her step-by-step tutorial for beginners.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Girl<\/p>\n

    Photo by Gabriel Martin on Unsplash<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    The Best Products for Pilates Hair, According to Pros<\/h2>\n
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    1<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Flyaways are a problem of the past with this magic wand, which won a 2025 NewBeauty Award. Jones loves using this product to help slick back hair and lock flyaways in place before Pilates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"dae<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    2<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    \u201cThey come in so many fun, vibrant colors and are perfect for keeping my hair out of my face without sacrificing style,\u201d says Ricouz.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Lululemon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    3<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Jones turns to this sweat-resistant dry shampoo to help with oil control. She loves that it\u2019s a mist so you don\u2019t get any sort of cast.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"K18<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    4<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    RPZL offers a wide range of claw clips\u2014no seriously, like dozens with new ones launching constantly. It’s no wonder Jones swears by this sturdy yet chic option.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"RPZL<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    5<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Ricouz says these are a must-have after heated Pilates classes. She uses them to refresh her scalp between wash days.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Creme<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    6<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    \u201cIf you\u2019re heading straight from class to something that requires a polished look and have styled beforehand, secure your hair in a loose top knot with a silk scrunchie to help prevent creases, dents or friction while you move through your workout,\u201d advises Mahoney. \u201cAfter class, let your hair down and give your roots a quick freshen with dry shampoo at the roots beforehand to absorb sweat and add volume. Fluff and style as needed and your blowout will be preserved!\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Drybar<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    7<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    \u201cI’m all about products that make movement easier while helping me care for my hair,\u201d says Ricouz. She dubs this her favorite curl cream for hydration, definition and keeping her curls healthy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"SheaMoisture<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    8<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Gualy recommends this affordable wax stick for helping to keep hair in place through class. It provides the clean, slicked-back look without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"SNTE<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    9<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    \u201cI’ve been using the Olaplex Bond Shaper for my curls, and it’s been so great for me. It helps control frizz while keeping my curls defined, even after a Pilates workout,\u201d says Lal. \u201cIt’s one of the few products that still leaves my hair looking good after class.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Olaplex<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    10<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Ricouz says this is her go-to for edge control. <\/strong>\u201cIt smells incredible and keeps everything in place.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"Mielle<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    11<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Gualy trusts this viral styling cream to help her hairstyle stick through Pilates. The lightweight formula smooths, calms frizz and defines curls. In addition to the signature citrus scent there\u2019s a limited-edition vanilla option right now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"dae<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    12<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    For a comfortable yet chic headband to perform Pilates in Jones turns to RPZL. These headbands come in a variety of colors and you can even buy a set of two or seven, and save money.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"RPZL<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    13<\/span> \/ 13<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Jones uses this bonding oil to smooth, shine and hydrate the ends of her hair before Pilates. \u201cI love that it\u2019s lightweight and not greasy,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \"OLAPLEX<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n