If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that fitness clothes are suitable for much more than working up a sweat. One article of clothing that deserves an extra-special shoutout is the famed workout dress. Equal parts form and function, the easy, breezy one-piece allows you to live your best Sporty Spice fantasy while also being practical enough to actually exercise in.
Workout dresses are nothing new, brands like Outdoor Voices and Girlfriend Collective have done a lot to make the garment a must-have for those of us who don’t play tennis. The best workout dresses combine performance-focused design with on-trend silhouettes and cuts. After all, what’s not to love about a piece of clothing that has no pants and is soft and made with stretchy fabric?
Whether paired with sneakers or some strappy sandals, the versatile hybrid can take you on hot girl walks and also work as a vacation staple. We love all of the different styles of workout dresses that have come out as the simple workhorse has gained recognition, from super strappy to one-shouldered cuties — all variations serving lewks. Ahead, scope out the best workout dress styles to live in at the gym and beyond.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
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Abercrombie & Fitch Traveler Mini Dress
Made from a super soft stretch fabric that doesn’t wrinkle, this exercise dress is a hit among the pack-and-go set. It is also offered in 13 different colors and petite, standard, and tall sizes, with petite folks particularly rejoicing for its perfect-length fit. This dress is the perfect staple to bring on vacation to stay chic but comfortable.
What They’re Saying: “Super comfy and the petite is the perfect length! I also love the fabric — the spandex-y shorts don’t squeeze, rub on me weird, or run up. This is my new go-to dress when I’m on the run.”
Shop Abercombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Traveler Mini Dress, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch
Vuori Topspin Dress
Featuring a high neck and hidden shorts with ball pockets, this sweat-wicking dress, made of Vuori’s BreatheInterlock fabric composted of a polyester elastane mix, is perfect for brunch, late-night doubles, and your weekly Trader Joe’s run.
What They’re Saying: “Love this dress! The fabric is soft and the material is great quality. I love the length and this is perfect for daily wear. Will definitely purchase in another color. I’m 5’6 125 and ordered a size medium. It’s not snug but fits well (probably could have gone with a small for a more fitted look).”
Shop Vuori
Vuori Topspin Dress, $, available at Vuori
Halara Backless Twisted Active Dress
Efficiency is the name of the game with Halara’s Backless Twisted Active dress. Not only is the dress super stylish with a strappy back and clasp, and available in over 10 fun colors, but the built-in shorts have pockets as well as an open back for easy bathroom breaks.
What They’re Saying: “I am obsessed! I bought three of these for my Florida trip and my daughter ended up stealing one!! I ran to buy more. These are so comfortable, especially in the heat! I’m a size 10. 5’6” 150lbs medium fit me perfect.”
Shop Halara
Halara Backless Twisted Active Dress-Easy Peezy Edition, $, available at Halara
FP Movement One Two Punch Set
The reviews are in from one of our favorite athleisure brands ever: This may just be the dreamiest activewear dress ever. The peek-a-boo ruched bra, open back, and flowy silhouette are flattering on everybody, and the flouncy drop skirt moves with every step you take. The shorts (with pockets!) are not built in so you can wear the set together or separately — your choice!
What They’re Saying: “This is such a unique piece and SOOOO flattering!! I sized up to a size large because I have a larger chest and the size medium definitely wouldn’t have fit. I love that it comes with the bike shorts underneath, which are equally as comfortable! 10/10 recommend! (5’6, 155lbs, size M).”
Shop FP Movement
FP Movement One Two Punch Set, $, available at Free People
Wilson Tiebreaker Dress
Heritage tennis brand Wilson has a tennis dress that will look cute both on and off the court. Designed with a racerback, shorts with storage pockets, and a built-in shelf bra, this dress was made for movement — even if that means just going to the other room for snacks.
What They’re Saying: “(What I wish I told myself as this sat in my cart for so long) I bought this for casual golf courses and it’s been perfect! Sizing is great, I even have a size 36G chest so I ordered the XL, I wear a crossback sports bra under and it works great. No pinching or squeezing anywhere, shorts don’t dig in and I feel ultra-confident in it. It’s so hard to find exercise-type dresses that don’t make me worried about my curves/ don’t highlight my stomach with the fabric, and I always go to grab this one. Only thing is that it’s a little difficult to get on and off!”
Shop Wilson
Wilson Tiebreaker Dress, $, available at Wilson
Girlfriend Collective Breeze RIB Bea Banded Dress
This eco-friendly option is made with 83% recycled plastic bottles and 17% spandex — and features some stylish colorways in sizes XXS to 6XL. (No wonder it sells out quickly!)
What They’re Saying: “Didn’t expect to love it so much: great color and fabric, very comfortable style, I sized up for extra roominess.”
Girlfriend Collective Breeze RIB Bea Banded Dress, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
Daily Practice By Anthropologie Trek Utility Mini Dress
Daily Practice By Anthropologie Trek Utility Mini Dress
Looking like you’re going to the gym doesn’t mean you necessarily have to get your sweat on… maybe you just wanna be uber-cozy on your trip to the pharmacy. Either way, this dress (with pockets) keeps it breezy for on the go or on the couch.
What They’re Saying: “I love this dress so much! It’s comfortable in the heat and humidity, has useful pockets, and fun details. I’m normally not a fan of purple, but it worked. And now I ordered one in red, too! I’m 5’7 size XL and was glad that this dress was less mini and more knee length.”
Shop Anthropologie
Daily Practice by Anthropologie Trek Utility Mini Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Lululemon Align Dress
Lululemon Align Dress
Lululemon‘s favorite sports bra is now a workout dress — with hidden shorts that have pockets! — to hold small essentials while you keep busy (in the immortal words of Fergie) workin’ on your fitness.
What They’re Saying: “This is honestly my favorite Lululemon purchase to date. I’m petite (4’11” and 106lbs) and the size 4 is perfect. It has the right amount of padding up top and a very flattering fit that doesn’t accentuate my stomach. It’s not too short or long. And the best part is how comfortable it is. The shorts underneath have pockets for when I’m on the tennis/pickleball court AND they are only attached in the front so I don’t have to take the whole thing down when I have to use the ladies’ room :). Again, fave purchase ever, off to order more colors!”
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Align Dress, $, available at Lululemon
Victoria’s Secret Essential Perforated Halter Dress
Victoria’s Secret Essential Perforated Halter Dress
We love a good halter neck, combine that with a workout dress, and voila! A cute yet sleek option to wear to the gym (or the couch). This dress features perforations on the chest and performance fabric to keep you cool during a gym sesh as well as four-way stretch, and hidden built-in shorts for a sporty but comfortable look.
What They’re Saying: “This is a great dress, very comfortable and flattering. It has a build in shelf bra and shorts, very supportive. But please VS, make this dress in bright summery colors like hot pink and maybe a tropical pattern. I currently have black but the other colors are boring.”
Shop Victoria’s Secret
Victoria’s Secret Essential Perforated Halter Dress, $, available at Victoria’s Secret
Tuckernuck Step In Rosemary Sport Dress
Tuckernuck Step In Rosemary Sport Dress
For those who prefer a bit more coverage in their workout gear, the Rosemary Sport Dress was made for you. Sensible in all the right ways, there are short sleeves, a fit-and-flare silhouette, a not-too-deep scoop neck with a built-in bra, and full-length shorts all packed in a precious baby blue dress.
What They’re Saying: “This dress is a dream! From the built-in shorts AND bra that cater to busty women, this is such a good wardrobe staple. This has great coverage, is amazing quality, and is super flattering on my curvy figure. If you are in between sizes I do recommend sizing up for the best comfort as it will definitely hold you in. I cannot wait to wear this everywhere I go!”
Shop Tuckernuck
Tuckernuck Step In Rosemary Sport Dress, $, available at Tuckernuck
Athleta Transcend Dress
Athleta Transcend Dress
We love Athleta’s scoop neck dress made with a stretchy lightweight nylon lycra blend fabric that’s perfect for travel or a hot girl walk. The quick-drying dress has built-in shorts and a bra to support you and keep you comfy no matter the activity.
What They’re Saying: “Bought this on final sale with my fingers crossed. So glad I did. It’s fitted in the right place, and definitely has some compression with the shorts to smooth everything out. It was perfect for a date night to the driving range followed by dinner. I paired it with a tank and denim jacket with sneakers, but I look forward to dressing it up a little more. I’m thick and this made me feel so good.”
Shop Athleta
Athleta Transcend Dress, $, available at Athleta
Gilly Hick Recharge Strappy Dress
Cottage-core print? Check! Cute tie back? Yes! Ultra comfortable? Reviews say so. Gilly Hicks’ active dress has our hearts with the dainty floral print and super soft four-way stretch fabric that will allow us to be as active as we want while still staying comfortable.
What They’re Saying: “I love this dress so much that I bought it in two colors. It is so flattering on and is perfect because it has shorts underneath. For reference, I am 5’ 3” 1/2 and weigh 138 lbs and I got a size small and I’m usually a size medium or a size 6 in dresses. I couldn’t have asked for a better dress in my opinion for running errands or playing pickleball.”
Shop Gilly Hicks
Gilly Hicks Recharge Strappy Dress, $, available at Hollister
MWL Plus Flex Fitness Dress
This easy-breezy dress has four-way stretch and epic sweat-wicking properties. Outfitted with a strappy back, built-in shorts with pockets and UPF 40+ sun protection, you’re ready for whatever the outdoors (or indoors) can throw at you. Plus, it’s made from 79% recycled polyester derived from plastic bottles.
What They’re Saying: “Love this dress! The fabric is buttery soft, slightly athletic material that’s comfy and versatile. The shorts have a pocket on the left side, and the straps are stretchy enough to easily get the dress on & off. The Brick color is super flattering and neutral enough to go with anything. Love it!”
Shop Madewell
MWL Plus Flex Fitness Dress, $, available at Madewell
Aerie Tiebreaker Pleated Dress
Aerie Tiebreaker Pleated Dress
The Tiebreaker Pleated dress might be the tenniscore dress of our dreams. From the flowy pleated skirt to the scoop neck, we love it all. Made of a lightweight, sweat-wicking material elastane nylon mix, this dress will have you feeling like you’re floating on the court.
What They’re Saying: “I love this!! I have been searching for a tennis dress for so long but struggled to find one with thick enough straps, fitted but not tights, and built-in shorts. This comes with everything I was hoping for and more!! The fabric is surprisingly soft, it’s stretchy, and I’m 5’4″ but it hits me in all the right places. And the built-in shorts have pockets (YAY!) and are thick, not flimsy. So happy with this!”
Shop Aerie
Aerie Tiebreaker Pleated Dress, $, available at Aerie
Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress
Outdoor Voices is one of the first brands to introduce workout dresses outside of the tennis realm but the brand has recreated the modern classic in various prints and colors. The sleek, body-skimming exercise dress has won over a legion of fans, thanks to its light-as-air feel nylon spandex blend performance fabric and built-in shorts.
What They’re Saying: “This dress is THE BEST! I ordered it not knowing if I’d ever wear it, but I literally can’t stop wearing it. The straps are comfortable, the built-in spandex and sports bra aren’t too tight, and the material is super soft. I want this dress in every color!”
Shop Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices The Exercise Dress, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Alo Yoga Courtside Tennis Dress
A classic sweetheart neckline, A-line silhouette, and buttery-soft fabric make this Alo Yoga pick a solid 10/10 in our book. The dress will go perfectly with a sweater over the shoulders and some sneakers for a European summer vacation — or just a run to the grocery store.
What They’re Saying: “This dress is so flattering! The material is so soft and stretchy, and it snatches your waist. The built-in shorts are so convenient and the overall cut of the dress is so flattering and beautiful.”
Shop Alo Yoga
Alo Yoga Alosoft Courtside Tennis Dress, $, available at Alo Yoga
Best Stylish Exercise Dress
FP Movement Drop Shot Skortsie
The reviews are in: This may just be the cutest activewear dress ever. The V-neck, crisscross back, and seam detailing are flattering on every bod, and the flouncy skirt moves with every step you take.
What They’re Saying: “I love this so much! I wish they had other colors! It fits amazing, it’s very comfy and amazing material.”
Shop FP Movement
FP Movement Drop Shot Skortsie, $, available at Free People
Best Everyday Dress
Daily Practice By Anthropologie Flared Mini Tennis Dress
Looking like you’re going to the gym doesn’t mean you necessarily have to get your sweat on…maybe you just wanna be uber-cozy on your grocery run. Either way, this dress (with pockets) keeps it breezy for on the go or on the couch.
What They’re Saying: “This dress is adorable and amazingly comfortable. Love the soft, sweatshirt-type fabric, the styling and, yes, the pockets! I wore it the same day as I bought it. I added leggings later as the temperature outside cooled. I probably would get another color if it became available.”
Shop Anthropologie
Daily Practice by Anthropologie Flared Mini Tennis Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Best Lululemon Exercise Dress
Lululemon Court Crush Dress
Lululemon’s fit-and-flare number has hidden bike shorts — with pockets! — to hold small essentials while you keep busy (in the immortal words of Fergie) workin’ on your fitness.
What They’re Saying: “Dual usage for running and as a cute casual dress. You can see the shorts below the skirt, but I don’t mind that, leaves less for others to imagine. The phone pocket is handy[,] and the flouncy skirt covers any bulge from the phone. Material is nice and cool and kept me more comfortable on a four-mile run in hot summer weather. Never thought I’d buy a running dress but I really like it!”
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Court Crush Dress, $, available at Lululemon
Best Exercise Dress With Stretch
MWL Plus Flex Fitness Dress
This easy-breezy dress has four-way stretch and epic sweat-wicking properties. Plus, it comes in the chicest colorways and is made from recycled polyester derived from plastic bottles.
What They’re Saying: “Love this dress! The fabric is buttery soft, slightly athletic material that’s comfy and versatile. The shorts have a pocket on the left side, and the straps are stretchy enough to easily get the dress on & off. The Brick color is super flattering and neutral enough to go with anything. Love it!”
Shop Madewell
MWL Plus Flex Fitness Dress, $, available at Madewell
Best Overall Exercise Dress
Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress
A modern classic reimagined in various prints and colors, OV’s sleek, body-skimming exercise dress has won over a legion of fans, thanks to its light-as-air feel and built-in shorts.
What They’re Saying: “This dress is THE BEST! I ordered it not knowing if I’d ever wear it, but I literally can’t stop wearing it. The straps are comfortable, the built-in spandex and sports bra aren’t too tight, and the material is super soft. I want this dress in every color!”
Shop Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices The Exercise Dress, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Best Exercise Dress For Petites
Abercrombie & Fitch Traveler Mini Dress
Made from a supersoft stretch fabric that doesn’t wrinkle, this exercise dress is a hit among the pack-and-go set. It is also offered in petite, standard, and tall sizes, with petite folks particularly rejoicing for its perfect-length fit.
What They’re Saying: “Super comfy and the petite is the perfect length! I also love the fabric — the spandex-y shorts don’t squeeze, rub on me weird, or run up. This is my new go-to dress when I’m on the run.”
Shop Abercombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Traveler Mini Dress, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch
Best Sustainable Exercise Dress
Girlfriend Collective Breeze RIB Bea Banded Dress
This eco-option is made with 83% recycled plastic bottles and 17% spandex — and features some stylish colorways in sizes XXS to 6XL. (No wonder it’s selling out quick!)
What They’re Saying: “Didn’t expect to love it so much: great color and fabric, very comfortable style, I sized up for extra roominess.”
Girlfriend Collective Breeze RIB Bea Banded Dress, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
Best Retro Exercise Dress
Reformation Milana Ecomove Dress
With accent piping and a fit-and-flare style throughout, Reformation’s chic workout dress will win you best dressed at the gym, hands down.
Shop Reformation
Reformation Milana Ecomove Dress, $, available at Reformation
Best Exercise Dress For Errands
Nike Bliss Luxe Training Dress Plus Size
Featuring a wide scoop neck and a built-in bodysuit, this sweat-wicking dress is perfect for brunch, spin class, and your weekly Trader Joe’s run.
What They’re Saying: “This is the perfect all-around dress for leisure, hiking, tennis, and more! It’s very comfy and light while being very flattering. I bought it in three colors, and even a couple of friends bought this dress after seeing mine!”
Shop Nike
Nike Nike Bliss Luxe Training Dress Plus Size, $, available at Nike
Best Under-$60 Exercise Dress
PowerSoft Fit & Flare Shelf-Bra Support Cutout-Waist Dress
A sweetheart neckline dress with cutouts and extra stretch in a baby-blue hue? In other words, you won’t want to take it off.
What They’re Saying: “I bought this dress specifically to wear at Disney. I wanted something comfortable and lightweight to walk around the parks all day and this delivered! I am 5’2 and weigh 160 and this fits so well even with my mommy pouch. Built-in bra and pocket are a plus. Absolutely love it and well worth the price. I was going to order a Halara dress but this is much better and comes with Old Navy quality, you can’t beat that!! Ordering another 😊 100% recommend!!”
Shop Old Navy
Old Navy PowerSoft Fit & Flare Shelf-Bra Support Cutout-Waist, $, available at Old Navy
Best Exercise Dress For Comfort
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Move It Dress
Beyond Yoga is known for its deliciously soft fabric choices, making this dress one of the most comfortable options for chic lounging.
What They’re Saying: “Absolutely in love with this! I plan to wear it all summer. Built-in bra, compression shorts, super soft fabric – so comfy and cute. What’s not to love, it’s like a romper and yoga pants had a baby. The only thing it’s missing is pockets.”
Shop Beyond Yoga
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Move It Dress, $, available at Beyond Yoga
Best Exercise Dress For High-Impact Workouts
Sweaty Betty Power Workout Dress
While some workout dresses are better suited for everyday casual wear, this style from Sweaty Betty actually holds up during intense cardio sessions, like HIIT and running, as one reviewer raved.
What They’re Saying: “I was initially apprehensive about wearing a dress to workout but WOW I was wrong! This dress is not only flattering and comfortable, it’s versatile. After a restorative yoga class (and forgotten change of clothes), I threw on lipstick and turned this into a sporty cocktail dress.”
Shop Sweaty Betty
Sweaty Betty Power Workout Dress, $, available at Sweaty Betty
Best Alo Yoga Exercise Dress
Alosoft Courtside Tennis Dress
A subtle sweetheart neckline and buttery-soft fabric make this Alo pick a solid 10/10 in our book.
What They’re Saying: “This dress is so flattering! The material is so soft and stretchy, and it snatches your waist. The built-in shorts are so convenient and the overall cut of the dress is so flattering and beautiful.”
Shop Alo
Alo Yoga Alosoft Courtside Tennis Dress, $, available at Alo Yoga
Best Polo Exercise Dress
Outdoor Voices Birdie Polo Dress
Featuring OV’s DriRelease Pique fabric, this quick-drying dress will keep you easy, breezy, and cool while keeping fit.
What They’re Saying: “This dress is so simple to throw on for a day running errands when the weather is warm. The fabric is lightweight and it’s very comfortable. The collar and buttons give it a nice touch to set it apart from a basic t-shirt dress and the fabric is breathable in case you get warm. I threw it on for errands and received several compliments but I imagine it would also be great for active activities like golfing or walking. The length was also great. I was never worried if it was too short.”
Shop Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices Birdie Polo Dress, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Best Exercise Dress For Golfing
Adidas Sport Heat.Rdy Sleeveless Dress
Hit the links in style with this golf-inspired dress, featuring a sporty neckline and HEAT.RDY technology to keep you cool on the green.
What They’re Saying: “I’m 5’7” and it fits perfectly on length not short at all. Breathable material that allows me to teach and play in without having to worry if it’s loose. Also looks really smart.”
Shop Adidas
Adidas Sport Heat.Rdy Sleeveless Dress, $, available at Adidas
Best Affordable Exercise Dress
Old Navy Sleeveless PowerSoft Performance Sleeveless Dress
An A-line dress with extra stretch in a crisp white hue? In other words, you won’t want to take it off.
What They’re Saying: “This doesn’t have the built-in shorts like other brands’ version of this dress, but I almost like that better for bathroom purposes. Probably will be purchasing a second one because I could wear this every day.”
Old Navy Sleeveless PowerSoft Performance Racer-Back Mini Swing, $, available at Old Navy
Best Compressive Exercise Dress
Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Dress
Featuring OV’s most sweat-wicking fabric yet, this ultra-supportive dress makes sports bras totally optional — here for it.
What They’re Saying: “I had some challenges finding the right fit (the bra band runs really small), but worth trying bc this dress is amazing. Super flattering, cooling material, moves with you and doesn’t wrinkle, looks hot, what’s not to love? I actually appreciate that it doesn’t have built-in shorts bc I just added my own underneath and it’s so much easier to pee.”
Shop Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Dress, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Best Exercise Dress For Golfing
Adidas Originals Class of 72 Polo Dress
Hit the links in style with this golf-inspired dress, featuring a sporty half-zip and accent stripes.
What They’re Saying: “I really like this dress. It’s very slim fitting, but pairs well with tights and brogues to style it as a more collegiate look. Amazing range from the 50th year anniversary of the Originals collection.”
Shop Adidas
Adidas Originals Class of 72 Polo Dress, $, available at Adidas
Best Sustainable Exercise Dress
Girlfriend Collective Naomi Workout Dress
This eco-option is made with 90% recycled plastic bottles and 10% spandex — and features some of the most stylish colorways we’ve seen in a minute. (No wonder it’s selling out quick!)
What They’re Saying: “This has become my go-to summer dress. It’s perfect for date nights or running around town. I love to pair it with a denim jacket and sneakers. It is so comfortable and the Float material is great at absorbing sweat on hot days.”
Girlfriend Collective Naomi Workout Dress, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
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