The 8 Best Exercise Dresses for Every Activity and Body Type
Discover the top exercise dresses that combine function, comfort, and style—perfect for workouts, errands, or brunch.
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Exercise Dresses
If you’ve been hunting for the perfect blend of functionality, comfort, and style for your workouts, errands, or casual outings, exercise dresses are the standout solution. This all-in-one athleisure staple has taken fashion enthusiasts and athletes alike by storm, offering an effortless mix of breathability, stretch, and eye-catching designs. Whether you’re seeking peak performance or just want to sport a chic, sporty look, this guide will walk you through the best exercise dresses available now, key buying considerations, expert style tips, and answers to your most pressing questions.
Why Choose an Exercise Dress?
Exercise dresses—sometimes called workout dresses—first exploded onto the fashion scene in 2018 when brands like Outdoor Voices made them a viral hit. The appeal is immediate: these dresses are crafted from sweat-wicking, stretchy materials, often include built-in shorts with practical pockets, and can take you from a hot yoga class to brunch without missing a beat.
- All-in-one outfit: No worrying about pairing tops and bottoms.
- Performance fabrics: Breathable, moisture-wicking, and stretchy to move with you.
- Versatile styling: Wear them for actual workouts or dress them up for an athleisure-inspired day out.
- Functional details: Pockets, built-in shorts, and flattering silhouettes are standard features.
How We Selected the Best Exercise Dresses
This list of must-have exercise dresses is based on the rigorous, real-world experience of an activewear-obsessed editor who tested over a dozen dresses across workouts, errands, and casual hangouts. The final eight are highlighted for their unique combination of comfort, performance, practicality, and style across various needs and budgets.
- Fabric Quality: Is it lightweight, breathable, and stretchy?
- Design & Fit: Does it flatter a range of body types, and is it comfortable for movement?
- Performance Features: Look for built-in shorts, supportive bodices, and secure pockets.
- Versatility: Can you wear it beyond the gym?
- Size range & inclusivity: Options for all body shapes.
The 8 Best Exercise Dresses of the Season
Below you’ll find the eight exercise dresses that stood out in testing. Each dress brings something unique to the table, whether that’s superior comfort for running, extra support for tennis, or stylish features for all-day wear.
1. Outdoor Voices The Exercise Dress – The Original Viral Sensation
Key features:
- Soft, sweat-wicking FreeForm fabric
- Built-in shorts liner with two practical pockets
- Classic racerback and A-line fit
- Available in multiple fresh colors and sizes XS–XL
The dress that started the exercise dress trend, Outdoor Voices’ OG design is beloved for its featherweight feel, versatility, and universally flattering fit. A recent update, the Flow Circle Back Dress, incorporates a stylish cutout back for more airflow and a touch of flair.
What others are reading
2. Alo Yoga Alosoft Courtside Tennis Dress – For High-Performance Play
Highlights:
- Lightweight, ultra-soft fabrication with sweat-wicking technology
- Supportive underlayer and removable bra cups
- Modern, athletic tennis-inspired look
- Built for movement: serves, lunges, or leisure
Designed with court sports in mind, Alo Yoga’s take is cut to flatter athletic figures, providing extra support and coverage for rigorous exercise.
3. Lululemon Align Double Strap Dress – Buttery Soft Comfort
Main draws:
- Signature Lululemon Align fabric—ultra-soft, stretchy, and sweat-wicking
- Double strap detail for a trendy, modern silhouette
- Shorts liner for extra security during activity
This dress is a favorite for its “naked” second-skin feel, making it ideal for hot summer days on the move.
4. Old Navy PowerSoft Sleeveless Shelf-Bra Dress – Budget-Friendly All-Star
Features:
- Affordable, high-performance activewear fabric
- Built-in shelf bra for gentle support
- Flared skirt and inclusive size range
Old Navy delivers comfort, style, and function without breaking the bank. A fantastic pick for casual walks or running errands.
5. Girlfriend Collective Paloma Racerback Dress – Sustainable Chic
Why it stands out:
- Constructed from recycled water bottles
- Signature compressive fabric for light support
- Racerback style for unrestricted movement
- Extended size range from XXS to 6XL
A pioneer in body-positive, eco-conscious activewear, Girlfriend Collective’s Paloma Dress is both flattering and planet-friendly.
6. Athleta Advantage Dress – For Functional Fitness
Top details:
- Made with lightweight, quick-drying fabric
- Adjustable, built-in shelf bra for customizable support
- Multiple streamlined pockets (including on the shorts!)
Great for tennis, golf, or high-impact sweaty sessions when you want to feel secure and free to move.
7. Abercrombie Traveler Mini Dress – Everyday Versatility
Highlights:
- Less “athletic” in appearance but built for daily movement
- Ultra-soft, durable stretch fabric
- Subtle A-line silhouette with built-in shorts
This pick blends seamlessly with casual style while providing all the performance benefits of activewear.
8. Halara Everyday Cloudful 2-in-1 Flare Dress – Social Media Darling
What makes it popular:
- Soft, lightweight Cloudful™ fabric
- Flare skirt design and built-in shorts with pockets
- Viral presence on TikTok for flattering fit
- Extensive color and size range
Perfect for anyone seeking a stylish, TikTok-approved option with lots of colorways and sizes.
How to Style Your Exercise Dress
Whether you’re headed to the gym, out for coffee, or into a day of errands, the exercise dress transitions easily from one setting to another. Here are some tips:
- Dress it up: Add a cropped jacket, chunky sneakers or slides, and simple jewelry for an off-duty model vibe.
- Keep it sporty: Team your dress with a baseball cap and athletic shoes for a fresh, energized look.
- Layer smart: Use a loose crewneck sweatshirt or oversized button-down over your dress for extra coverage and dimension.
- Accessorize: Fanny packs, crossbody bags, or a practical tote round out the ensemble.
How to Choose the Right Exercise Dress for You
- Check the fit: Aim for snug but not too tight; check the brand’s size chart for inseam and torso length.
- Pockets: Especially useful for carrying keys, phone, or a card.
- Fabric properties: Look for wicking, breathability, and stretch in the blend (nylon, spandex, or recycled poly blends).
- Intended use: Some styles are built for running and sports, while others are more for lounging or errands.
- Support: Opt for built-in bras or extra lining if you prefer more support.
- Style preferences: Decide between racerback, strappy, or cap-sleeve designs based on what feels best on you.
- Inclusive sizing: Seek out brands offering broader ranges to ensure a better fit for all body types.
Caring for Your Exercise Dress
- Machine wash cold with similar colors.
- Avoid fabric softeners to preserve sweat-wicking properties.
- Air-dry when possible to maintain elasticity and avoid shrinking.
- Quick spot-cleaning can help prolong time between washes for more delicate fabrics.
What Sets the Exercise Dress Apart?
The core innovation of the contemporary exercise dress lies in its integrated shorts and all-in-one construction, often including essential pockets and plenty of stretch. According to both editors and mainstream coverage, the major appeal is that the dresses are as functional for a gym session as they are for daywear, making “literally no one would know you just wore it to the gym.” Athletes and influencers alike have propelled exercise dresses to viral status, making them a symbol of modern athleisure.
While initially garnering double-takes from others when worn for workouts, exercise dresses are now a recognized staple—combining the comfort of activewear with the easy style of a sundress.
Comparison Table: Top Exercise Dress Features
| Dress | Fabric | Built-in Shorts | Pockets | Sizes | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Voices OG/Flow Dress | FreeForm nylon/spandex | Yes | Yes (2) | XS-XL | $$$ |
| Alo Yoga Courtside | Alosoft blend | Yes | No | XS-L | $$$ |
| Lululemon Align Dress | Align, sweat-wicking | Yes | No | 0-14 | $$$ |
| Old Navy PowerSoft Dress | PowerSoft Active | No | No | XS-4X | $ |
| Girlfriend Paloma | Compressive, recycled poly | No | No | XXS-6XL | $$ |
| Athleta Advantage | Poly/spandex quick-dry | Yes | Yes | XXS-3X | $$$ |
| Abercrombie Traveler | Performance stretch | Yes | No | XS-XL | $$ |
| Halara Everyday Cloudful | Cloudful™ | Yes | Yes | XS-XL | $ |
Expert Style Tips for Wearing Exercise Dresses
- Footwear matters: For sporty looks, sneakers are ideal; for post-workout style, chunky slides or platforms add flair.
- Layering is key: Oversized shirts, utility vests, or lightweight cardigans amp up versatility for unpredictable weather.
- Bold accessories: Vibrant scrunchies, stackable bracelets, or statement sunglasses personalize your outfit.
- Don’t shy from color: Exercise dresses come in a vast range of shades—embrace brights, pastels, and classic black for different moods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are exercise dresses suitable for high-intensity workouts?
A: Many are! Look for dresses with strong built-in shorts, supportive bodices, and sweat-wicking fabrics. Models from Outdoor Voices, Alo Yoga, and Athleta are designed for dynamic movement and moderate to high-intensity exercise.
Q: What kind of undergarments work best with an exercise dress?
A: Most exercise dresses include a built-in liner or shorts, so additional underwear is optional. For extra support, a sports bra may be layered under styles without built-in bras.
Q: How should I wash my exercise dress?
A: Machine wash on cold and air dry flat to preserve elasticity and wicking abilities. Avoid fabric softeners, which can break down technical materials.
Q: Can I wear an exercise dress casually or to work?
A: Absolutely! Style with a blazer and flats or layer under a long cardigan for a relaxed office vibe (if office dress code allows). For casual outings, sneakers and a denim jacket complete the look.
Q: What if I don’t like built-in shorts?
A: Some dresses offer removable shorts or are designed without liners—Girlfriend Collective, Old Navy, and Abercrombie offer alternative fits. Always check the product details.
Q: Are exercise dresses size-inclusive?
A: The best brands now offer wide size ranges, often from XXS to 6XL. Always consult each brand’s size guide as silhouettes and sizing can vary.
Final Word: Is the Exercise Dress Worth It?
With unmatched comfort, effortless style, and functional performance, the exercise dress is here to stay. Whether you’re smashing a cardio session or strolling through the city, there is a perfect dress for every preference, body type, and budget. Use this guide to find the style that fits your needs, and embrace the all-in-one, no-fuss appeal that’s made the exercise dress the season’s most essential piece.
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exercise_dress
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g65932151/best-exercise-dresses/
- https://andigetdressed.com/2012/07/17/clothes-men-think-are-sexy-plus-edition/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/a39954867/outdoor-voices-flow-circle-back-dress/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aLiKv6t9LQ
- https://fashionweekdaily.com/cosmopolitan-com-adds-elizabeth-narins-as-their-inaugural-fitness-editor/
- https://fi.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/175/2023/08/J-Adolescent-Adult-Lit-2019-Spires.pdf
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
