With discussions about TikTok potentially being banned in the U.S., many users, including myself, are anxious about losing the platform. I enjoy the app because it offers a wealth of unique information, from how to hem my pants without a tailor to tips on preventing avocados from browning. I've also learned that many people don't know what a bolero top is.
Recently, a viral TikTok video by Noah Pilato, a professional soccer player at Penn State, garnered over 10 million views, 435,000 likes, 12,000 saves, and 2600 comments. He began his clip by stating, "Someone's gotta explain these tops that women are wearing to the gym." At first, I wasn't sure where he was headed, but he continues, "It's a bodyless long-sleeve. … It's the most attractive article of… I don't even know if you can call that an article of clothing—it's the most attractive piece of cloth that I've ever seen in my entire life."
I immediately understood that the "cloth" he was referring to is what those of us in the fashion industry call a bolero. This shrug-like top was inspired by the jackets worn by matadors during bullfights in the 1800s. However, contemporary designers, particularly in the activewear sector (think Splits59, ALO, and Lululemon), have adapted these for workouts, creating stylish options that keep the arms warm without the bulk of heavier layers.
Although I had known boleros were stylish additions to workout outfits, I had never owned one, but after hearing Pilato speak highly of them, I was convinced to purchase one. Keep scrolling to see all the boleros I bookmarked and the one I ultimately decided to buy.
Shop the best bolero tops:
I'll take this entire three-piece set, please.
There are rumors that this color will be very popular this year.
The thumbholes are a game changer.
Throw this over a sports bra for your commute to Pilates.
This is a great option if you're like me and prefer your garments loose.
Boleros don't just have to be worn with athleisure. Take note of the styling here and wear yours with an LBD.
Joah Brown has such chic wardrobe basics.
Yes, this is considered a bolero too.
This also comes in gray.
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Kaia Gerber and Vuori Just Launched a '90s- and Early 2000s–Inspired Activewear Capsule, and It's So GoodChic and minimalist.
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"Frugal Chic" Is Trending on TikTok—Here's What It MeansWhen to spend and save.
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Yep, This Chic Legging Trend Will Definitely Carry Into 2026Shop Michelle Monaghan's exact pair.
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15 Chic Activewear Pieces You Can Wear Beyond the GymFrom Gap, Beyond Yoga, and more.
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Bike Shorts Have Lost Their Luster—This Is the Sporty Trend Fashion People Are Wearing InsteadThey're sporty even if you're not.
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L.A. It Girls Are Swapping XL Totes for the Elevated Bag Trend Made for Pilates and Matcha RunsHailey Bieber being one.
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The One-Piece That's Basically Required If You're in Tracy Anderson's "Tamily"AKA the obsessive Tracy Anderson community.
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Sneakers Are the Real MVP of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale—These 29 Cool Styles Are ProofNew Balance, Asics, Converse, and more.
