12 Best Lululemon Staples for Beginners, Starting at $39

Yes, I’m a woman in her mid-30s who — just until a few months ago — had never tried on anything from Lululemon. But after seeing way too many TikTok videos about Lulu favorites and hearing my friends, coworkers and even my mom talk about the brand, I finally decided to go and see what all the fuss was about. During my visit to my local store, I learned a lot about styles, fabrics, quality guarantees and how to ensure your Lululemon clothes last the longest. Walking into the store, I knew that trying on Lululemon leggings was a must, but other than that, I was a blank canvas.

Luckily, the Lululemon associate (Hi, Caitlin!) was more than happy to spread her Lululemon intel. First, she informed me that in order to get the best life out of anything I purchased at the store, I should wash with similar fabrics and line dry. During my personal shopping experience, I noticed different fabrics may require you to size up or down, and I also learned that certain dyes may impact how the leggings may feel on you, but colors should not impact the size. I did ask about Lululemon's return policy since I have seen a lot of TikTokkers talk about trying to return old leggings for a new pair, and I was told Lululemon absolutely stands by their products, as they have a traditional 30-day return policy. But if you notice problems with your seams or piling on the leggings after that 30 days and have cared for them properly, they will replace them at no cost.

Let's go through some of the Lululemon best staples for 2023. Keep in mind that when shopping with Lululemon, they do offer a first responder, healthcare worker, and military discount with valid ID.

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12 Lululemon Staples for Beginners

Best Leggings for Comfort: Align Hit-Rise Pant, Starting at $128

So where to start if you're a Lululemon first-timer and not sure what to buy? I immediately went to the leggings, because that is what Lululemon is most know for. I reached for the Aligns, which are the most popular leggings, and are intended for light yoga and loungewear. I was nervous at first, because I was told to consider sizing down due to the extreme stretch this legging offers, and the size 4 looked like it would fit my 8-year-old. I tried it on and I couldn’t believe how terrific the fabric felt and they fit perfectly. Bonus? They have pockets! Align High-Rise Pant, $128-$138

Best Maternity Leggings: Align Super-High-Rise Crop, $88

Online, Lululemon offers a Super-High-Rise Crop for $88, that are even higher waisted than their standard leggings, which is a favorite for pregnant and postpartum women. Align Super-High-Rise Crop, $88

Related: Best Lululemon Leggings Dupes

Best Leggings for Working Out: Wunder Train Leggings, $98

I was told the Wunder Train Leggings ($98) are the most appropriate for working out in, as the fabric is more durable. Personally, I found the Wunder Train’s more comfortable...I liked the compression they offered and I also liked knowing I could choose to wear them around the house or to the gym without worrying about ruining the fabric. I found Wunder Train’s true to size. Wunder Train Leggings, $98

Best Lululemon Shorts: Wunder Train High-Rise Short, $64

For those looking for shorts to work out in or lounge around in, I loved the Wunder Train shorts,($64), which is offered in a variety of lengths. I prefer running in longer shorts, so having a 4", 6”, or 8” option is great for me, and they have the same rise and fit as the Wunder Train leggings. Online, you can even find these shorts with pockets! For some, if the shorts hit them mid-thigh, they find it is more comfortable to size up. Wunder Train High-Rise Short, $64

Best Sports Bra: Free to Be Long-Line Bra, $58

The Free to Be Long-Line Bra ($58), is hands down the best sports bra I have tried in a long time. I can wear this with or without a shirt over it. I felt secure and comfortable, but beyond that, it looked great. I was really impressed with this bra, and online, there are a lot of fun color and print options. Free to Be Long-Line Bra, $58

Best Tank: Mesh Back Cropped Train Tank, Starting at $39

When I first walked into Lululemon, I was intrigued by how often I heard the people on the sales floor talk about the technology the brand utilizes, and this was evident when I tried on the Mesh Back Cropped Train Tank. While the shirt fits like a standard running crop T-shirt, it contains a No-Stink Zinc to prevent odor-causing bacteria. This is a shirt you are encouraged to wear multiple times before washing and I was assured no one will know the difference. I have tested with many runs and yes, it works! Mesh Back Cropped Train Tank Top, Starting at $39

Related: Best Black Leggings

Best Work Pants: Stretch High Rise 7/8 Length Pant, $118

After trying on enough options for my workouts, I switched gears and looked for the perfect items for fall loungewear. I was immediately directed towards the Stretch High-Rise 7/8 Pant ($118), which is a favorite among teachers. These pants had a sheen to them that allowed you to dress them up, but they had sufficient stretch so you could be comfy all day. I found the fabric a little thick, so these pants will definitely keep you warm. Stretch High Rise 7/8 Length Pant, $118

Best Lululemon Joggers: Ready to Rulu High-Rise Jogger, Starting at $59

If you are looking for the ultimate comfortable pant, I fell in love with the Ready to Rulu High-Rise Jogger. These would be terrific for long days working from home in front of screens. Ready to Rulu High-Rise Jogger, Starting at $59

Related: Best Joggers for Women

Best Lululemon Jacket: The Define Jacket Luon, $118

The Define Jacket Luon jacket fits like a dream. After sizing up, the fit was perfect, it had incredible warmth and felt like the perfect fall jacket. This is another Lululemon staple that they offer in a variety of fabrics to best suit your needs. If you are in need of a fall zipper-up, this is it! Define Jacket Luon, $118

Best Sweatshirt: Oversized Crop Crew Softstreme, $118

Oversized Crop Crew Softstreme is the sweater you want while sitting by the fire and drinking your cup of coffee. Once you wear it, you instantly feel relaxed. This sweater is a bit dressier than your traditional sweatshirt, but it is also more comfortable. Oversized Crop Crew Softstreme, $118

Best Hoodie: Scuba Oversized 1/2 Zip Hoodie, $118

At the end of my visit, I asked Caitlin what was one item available online that she wished was available in stores. She was quick to highlight the Scuba Oversized 1/2  Zip Hoodie ($118), which is a fan-favorite, frequently selling out in-store and online, due to the extreme softness and great fit. It is one of her favorite items, but it can be tricky to get your hands on one. Scuba Oversized 1/2  Zip Hoodie, $118

Best Bag: Clean Lines Belt Bag 2L, $58

Between trying to hold a cell phone, keys and my kids' hands, going on errands is hard with a big purse to carry too. That's why I'm in love with the Clean Lines Belt Bag 2L, which can store everything while conveniently being placed over my shoulder. No holding anything! Clean Lines Belt Bag 2L, $58

Next, check out the best bodysuits.