Top 10 Athletic And Sports Dresses
Hands Down, These Are The Cutest Athletic Dresses For Working Out (Or Not)
Whether you're hitting the gym, going for a run, or simply running errands, athletic dresses offer a seamless blend of fashion and functionality. From retro-inspired designs to modern and chic versions, these sporty dresses are the epitome of versatility, making them a must-have addition to your wardrobe. And with their rise in popularity over the years, owning one (or several) of these workout-ready dresses is basically essential. So, let's dive into everything you need to know about athletic dresses, from why they're so great to what to consider when shopping for one. And of course, we'll share our top-ranked picks of the best athletic dresses available online.
Why Choose Athletic Dresses?
Gone are the days when athletic dresses were limited to tennis and golf. Today, fashion-forward activewear brands like Girlfriend Collective and Outdoor Voices are reinventing the athletic dress game. These dresses boast pretty details like cutouts, flared skirts, and deep V-necks, ensuring you stay stylish while on the move.
Moreover, workout dresses are not just about aesthetics; they are designed with technical features that make them practical for various physical activities. Many of them come with built-in bras and shorts, making them an all-in-one solution for your active pursuits. Whether you're hitting the trails, taking a yoga class, or enjoying a night out with friends, these dresses effortlessly transition from one setting to another.
How To Choose The Perfect Athletic Dress
When selecting the ideal athletic dress for your needs, consider these key factors:
Fabric: Opt for moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics to keep you comfortable during intense workouts.
Fit: Look for dresses that offer a flattering and supportive fit, ensuring you can move freely and confidently.
Length: Choose a length that suits your activity and personal style. Some may prefer shorter lengths for activities like running, while others might favor longer dresses for added coverage during yoga or hiking.
Built-in Support: If you prefer added support, opt for dresses with built-in bras or shelf bras.
Versatility: Seek dresses that can effortlessly transition from workout sessions to casual outings, maximizing their wearability.
Benefits Of Workout Dresses
There are many benefits of wearing workout dresses, including comfort, time-saving, elimination of chafing, and fashion-forwardness. Athletic dresses are designed with comfort in mind, ensuring you can focus on your performance without any distractions. The all-in-one design of many workout dresses saves time on outfit planning, making them a practical choice for busy individuals. Additionally, dresses with built-in bike shorts help combat thigh chafing, particularly during hot summer months. With a wide range of stylish options, athletic dresses allow you to express your personal style even during your workout routine.
Of course, not all athletic dresses are created equal, and not all are suitable for every situation. Luckily, we’ve taken the work out of your workout dress shopping and created a Top 10 list filled with options that are sure to fit the bill no matter what your sport of choice is—even if that choice is running errands.
How We Found The Best Athletic Dresses
At Rank & Style, we're committed to finding the best products for our readers. That's why we use a proprietary algorithm that takes into account factors like best-seller lists, user reviews, and editor recommendations. And because our algorithm is unbiased, so you can trust that our Top 10 lists are always made up of the best products on the market. So go ahead and scroll through our list to find the perfect exercise dress for you!
April 4, 2024
Written By:Meredith Rimmer
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Racerback Dress
Overall Score
4.35
10
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Racerback Dress
4.2
891 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Racerback Athletic Dress
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Girlfriend Collective took its best-selling bra and turned it into a dress. Not surprisingly, it’s amazing. The dress has compressive fabric and medium bust support, and it's available in a range of sizes from XXS-6X.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
When you’re done with this dress, you can send it back to the brand's ReGirlfriend program so they can recycle it into other clothes.
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Eco Friendly
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Movement Dress
Overall Score
4.35
09
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Movement Dress
4.39
90 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Fit-And-Flare Athletic Dress
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Whether you're gearing up for a tennis lesson or simply want to keep cool, this athletic dress is up for the job. Built with moisture-wicking breathability, UV protection, and a universally flattering silhouette, the Spacedye Movement Dress is proof athletic dresses can be both fashionable and functional.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This dress has an interior bodysuit with pockets for additional coverage and support.
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Made In Usa
Eco Friendly
Vuori One Shot Tennis Dress
Overall Score
4.35
08
Vuori One Shot Tennis Dress
4.41
93 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Slim-Fit Athletic Dress
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
The Vuori One Shot Tennis Dress is perfectly described as a "do-it-all dress." Made from a breathable performance knit fabric, this dress has an interior bike short length bodysuit underneath for extra coverage so you can do quite anything in this little number without feeling restricted.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This dress comes in three shades: White, Black, and Isle Blue.
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Made In Usa
Eco Friendly
Aerie Offline Exercise Dress
Overall Score
4.4
07
Aerie Offline Exercise Dress
4.6
197 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Affordable Athletic Dress
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
The Aerie Offline Exercise Dress is a mini dress you can feel comfortable and secure moving in even on your most active days thanks to the slightly drapey fit, built-in shorts, adjustable cross straps.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The $25 dress is available in sizes from XS to 2X.
Eco Friendly
Alo Yoga Alosoft Courtside Tennis Dress
Overall Score
4.45
06
Alo Yoga Alosoft Courtside Tennis Dress
4
154 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lightweight Athletic Dress
WHO IT'S FOR
With its sweetheart neckline, this is one of the most unique options in the bunch. As the name suggests, the signature Alosoft fabric is cozy, but don't be afraid to wear it in warm weather. It's still super lightweight and breathable, and there are adjustable cami straps for a just-right fit.
HELPFUL TIP
This dress runs small, so consider sizing up for a looser fit.
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Made In Usa
lululemon Align Dress
Overall Score
4.55
05
lululemon Align Dress
4.3
560 User Reviews
2.9
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best V-Neck Athletic Dress
WHY YOU NEED IT
Say goodbye to discomfort with the buttery-soft fabric that feels like a second skin, offering unmatched comfort throughout your day. Crafted with the same luxurious Nulu fabric that has made the Align leggings a favorite among fitness enthusiasts, this dress is designed to provide an unparalleled level of softness and flexibility.
PROMISING REVIEW
"Really versatile dress. Wore it on a hike and had no complaints. It was then perfect to wear around wineries and restaurants. Comfortable. Built in bra works well!"
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Inclusive
Ewedoos Workout Dress With Built-In Bra & Shorts
Overall Score
4.6
04
Ewedoos Workout Dress With Built-In Bra & Shorts
4.5
5833 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Athletic Dress On Amazon
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Made with an ultra-soft, moisture-wicking fabric, it's not hard to see why this athletic dress ranks #1 in Amazon's category of women's tennis dresses. The dress fits snug on top and features a built-in bra and shorts underneath the flattering A-Line silhouette.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This athletic women's dress is made from a blend of nylon and spandex so its flexible and comfortable enough to wear on active or rest days.
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Abercrombie & Fitch Traveler Mini Dress
Overall Score
4.65
03
Abercrombie & Fitch Traveler Mini Dress
4.4
733 User Reviews
3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Mini Athletic Dress
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
This strappy mini dress is as much about fashion as it is about function. It has a cute '90s style that’s all the rage, but the supportive fabric and built-in shorts make it perfect for light exercise.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I've gotten so many compliments every time I've worn this! It's super cute and comfy and by far my favorite dress I've bought. I don't usually write reviews, but if I could live every day in this dress, I would. I want it in every color!"
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Made In Usa
Old Navy PowerSoft Sleeveless Shelf-Bra Support Dress
Overall Score
4.75
02
Old Navy PowerSoft Sleeveless Shelf-Bra Support Dress
4.6
4332 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Relaxed-Fit Athletic Dress
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
This one gives off major tennis dress vibes. The breathable, lightweight compression fabric gently holds you in while letting you vent, and there is a body suit built into the dress, so you have additional support underneath, too.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The PowerSoft Sleeveless dress comes in more than eight colors and in regular, tall, and petite size options.
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Outdoor Voices The Exercise Dress
Overall Score
4.95
01
Outdoor Voices The Exercise Dress
4.7
4916 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Athletic Dress Overall
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Originators of the modern exercise dress, this style from Outdoor Voices covers all the bases. The back has adjustable straps, the built-in shorts have leg grips to keep them from riding up, and there are two pockets for storing your valuables.
PROMISING REVIEW
"The hype for this dress is completely warranted. I now own three colors and want to get a fourth for summer. It is so versatile and so flattering. I love to tell people that you can exercise, go grocery shopping, or day drink in this dress. It is a closet staple."
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