Katie's Pilates Teacher Says These Spring Essentials *Actually* Make a Difference

Ashley Patten's favorites span fitness gear, skincare staples, and everyday upgrades.

sweater, beauty products, shoes

Ready to feel stronger, fresher, and effortlessly put together this spring? We love sharing recommendations for beauty and comfy-yet-functional clothing that'll make the season even more rejuvenating. So to discover more cool finds, we called up Katie's Pilates trainer, Ashley Patten.

Patten knows what she's talking about: As the owner of her own Pilates practice, she knows the difference between workout gear that's the latest fad, and items that truly help your fitness practice. But Patten is also a stylish New Yorker, with insight into clothing and shoe picks that'll make you feel similarly relaxed yet chic. Oh, and you can't miss her book of the season, which has also spawned a new Netflix adaptation (if you're looking for weeknight-viewing plans, look no further). Plus, she's got a skincare endorsement that prevents crepey skin. Here's the full roster of her spring picks:

The Indie Slide

Commbi

"These comfy leather slides are so perfect for walking around New York City. I love that they don't look like orthopedic shoes but they provide the same level of comfort."

$210 at Commbi

Multi-Acid Milk Peel AHA Exfoliating Solution

Prequel

"This works great on faces, but I've been using this milky exfoliant on my arms and legs to prevent crepey skin. Thanks to the glycolic and lactic acid, it also boosts skin radiance and improves discoloration."

$23 at Amazon

Coco Sport Cardigan

Alex Mill

"I love this Alex Mill cardigan. It's comfortable enough to lounge  in, but cute enough to wear out — it's a staple piece you'll want to keep close by all season."

$168 at Alex Mill

Coco Sport Pant

Alex Mill

"These soft, stretchy pants — which match the above cardigan — are just as versatile. But they also look great on their own, and feel amazing. They're perfect for a long travel day."

$168 at Alex Mill

The (Body) Works

Stripes

"This body oil/body butter set is great for hydration.  I used it all winter and loved how it made my skin feel soft and moisturized, despite the brutal dryness and cold."

$114 at Stripes

G-Vest Icon

Omorpho

"I love exercising outside in the spring, so I've been wearing this weighted vest for workouts in Central Park. It's also ideal for long walks, helping you build your muscles and bone density. Don't tell my trainer, but I get more sore from wearing this than from some workouts than with him! This model is pricy, but it's made to last, unlike some of the weighted vests you see online."

$275 at Omorpho

Remarkably Bright Creatures, by Shelby Van Pelt

Bookshop

"This bestselling novel (which has just been turned into a Netflix adaptation featuring Sally Field) is the best book I've read in a long time. It explores a widow's friendship with a giant Pacific octopus."

$19 at Bookshop

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