Lululemon Riverstone vs. Bone: What's the difference?

The core difference between Lululemon's Riverstone and Bone colors lies in their undertones and overall aesthetic. Riverstone is a complex, moody greige (a mix of grey and beige) with cool, earthy undertones, giving it a sophisticated and muted look. Bone is a clean, creamy off-white with warm undertones, offering a bright, airy, and classic minimalist feel.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of each color to help you pick the perfect neutral for your activewear wardrobe.

Lululemon Riverstone

Riverstone is a popular and nuanced neutral that stands out for being more complex than a typical grey. Often described as a taupe or greige, it has earthy, sometimes slightly purplish undertones that give it depth and character, making it a sophisticated alternative to basic black or grey.

• What it is: A muted gray-beige hybrid color with cool, earthy undertones.
• Key features: Its complex tone shifts subtly in different lighting, adding dimension. The mid-tone color is excellent at camouflaging minor scuffs or sweat compared to lighter shades.
• Price: The price is determined by the garment, not the color. A piece in Riverstone costs the same as the same piece in Bone or Black (e.g., approx. $98-$128 for leggings).
• Pairs well with: Jewel tones (deep blues, greens), other earthy tones, crisp whites, and cool pastels like lavender and dusty blue.
• Pros: Unique and chic shade that feels elevated. Excellent at concealing sweat. Versatile for all seasons. Offers a softer look than black but with similar versatility.
• Cons: The cooler, sometimes purplish undertones may not complement all skin tones. Can appear darker or lighter depending on the ambient light.

This color is for those who love elevated, earthy neutrals and want a versatile shade that's more unique than standard grey.

Shop this color: shop.lululemon.com/p/womens/color/Riverstone

Lululemon Bone

Bone is a timeless and crisp off-white that reads as a light, creamy beige. It embodies a clean, minimalist aesthetic and has become a staple for those building a neutral activewear collection. Its warm undertones make it soft and approachable, perfect for brightening up any outfit.

• What it is: A clean and classic warm off-white or light cream color.
• Key features: Provides a fresh, airy look that feels modern and chic. Its warm base makes it highly compatible with a wide range of other colors.
• Price: The color does not affect the item's price. A pair of Align leggings in Bone will be priced the same as in any other color.
• Pairs well with: Virtually everything - other neutrals for a monochrome look, pastels, bright colors, denim tones, and classic black.
• Pros: Extremely versatile and timeless. Perfect for a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Looks fresh for spring and summer but works year-round. Creates a bright, put-together look effortlessly.
• Cons: More likely to show sweat, dirt, or stains. Lighter-colored fabrics, especially in performance materials like Nulu, may require seamless, nude-colored undergarments for full opacity.

Choose this color if you want a bright, classic neutral that serves as a fresh foundation for countless outfits.

Shop this color: shop.lululemon.com/p/womens/color/Bone

Riverstone vs. Bone Comparison

Color & Vibe

The primary difference is the overall feeling each color projects. Riverstone is earthy, grounding, and sophisticated. Its grey-beige complexity feels moody and modern, making it a color that adds interest without being loud. It has a cooler, more muted energy.

Bone is bright, airy, and clean. Its warm, creamy off-white appearance is classic and minimalist. It functions as a clean slate, perfect for creating fresh, elevated looks. If Riverstone is the sophisticated, cloudy day neutral, Bone is the sunny, breezy one.

Styling & Versatility

Both colors are incredibly versatile, but they excel in different style palettes. Riverstone shines when paired with cool tones, deep jewel colors, and other earthy shades like olive green or slate blue. It creates a cohesive, grounded look that feels intentional and chic.

Bone is arguably more of a chameleon. It effortlessly complements both warm and cool colors, from soft pastels to vibrant primary shades. It’s also foundational to the popular monochrome athleisure look, pairing beautifully with other shades of cream, white, and beige.

Practicality (Stains & Sheerness)

This is a major deciding factor for many. As a mid-tone color, Riverstone is more forgiving. It’s significantly better at hiding sweat marks during intense workouts and is less likely to show minor smudges or dirt from a stray gym bag or a brush against a car door.

Bone, being a light off-white, is less practical in this sense. It will show sweat and stains much more visibly. While Lululemon's fabrics offer good coverage, any light color runs a higher risk of being slightly sheer depending on the fit and stretch, so pairing pieces in Bone with skin-toned undergarments is often recommended for peace of mind, especially with leggings.

Which One Should You Choose?

While both are excellent neutrals from the same great brand, your choice comes down to personal style and practical needs.

Choose Riverstone if:

• You prefer deep, earthy, and sophisticated tones over bright ones.
• You want a unique neutral that stands out from simple grey or black.
• Your top priority is hiding sweat and keeping your activewear looking pristine during and after workouts.
• Your wardrobe features a lot of cool blues, greens, and other muted shades.

Choose Bone if:

• You love a clean, minimalist, and airy aesthetic.
• You are looking for a foundational piece to create light monochrome outfits.
• Your personal style leans classic and you want a color that pairs with absolutely everything.
• You are less concerned with visible sweat marks during workouts and prioritize the bright, chic look.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Riverstone and Bone?

The main difference is their undertone and value. Riverstone is a darker, cooler greige (grey-beige), while Bone is a lighter, warmer off-white.

Is Lululemon's Bone color see-through?

In most fabrics, like Luxtreme or Everlux, Bone offers excellent coverage. However, in body-hugging styles made of buttery-soft Nulu fabric (like Align leggings), any light color can appear slightly sheer when stretched. It’s best to wear seamless, nude-colored underwear for complete confidence.

What color is Riverstone really?

Riverstone is best described as a greige or taupe. It’s a hybrid of grey and beige with subtle cool, sometimes purplish, undertones that make it look different in various lighting conditions.

Does the Bone color show sweat?

Yes, like most light colors, Bone will show sweat marks more prominently than darker shades like Riverstone or black. It's better suited for low-sweat activities like yoga, Pilates, or daily wear if that is a concern.

Is Bone the same as White Opal?

No. While similar, Bone is typically a true, creamy off-white beige. White Opal often has more yellowish or ivory undertones, making it appear slightly warmer and richer.

Which color is more versatile?

Both are highly versatile. However, Bone functions more like a classic white, pairing with every color imaginable. Riverstone is very versatile within muted, cool, and earthy color palettes but pairs less naturally with very bright, warm colors.

Are Riverstone and Bone core Lululemon colors?

Both colors cycle in and out of Lululemon's collections. They are considered popular, recurring neutrals rather than permanent core colors like Black, Navy, or White. If you see a style you love in either color, it's often a good idea to buy it before it sells out.

How do I care for my light-colored Lululemon items like Bone?

Wash them with other light-colored activewear in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid washing them with towels or abrasive fabrics. Hang to dry and treat any stains promptly with a gentle stain remover to keep the color bright.