"Having a toddler has completely changed the way I dress. While I haven’t completely said goodbye to my beloved collection of maxi dresses, they’re no longer a part of my typical daily uniform. Instead, my dress code is centered around working from home and taking care of a little ball of energy. She’s happiest when playing at the water table, finger painting, or performing gymnastics in our living room. The best item of clothing for parenting during this phase? Exercise dresses.
I haven’t given up on the favorite items in my closet. But more often than not, I am opting for something comfortable and practical during this stage of my life (and my daughter’s toddlerhood). And when I know I’m going to be out playing with her or on the go running errands, I’ve found a happy compromise between my pre-baby and post-baby wardrobe choices in the exercise dress.
As they’ve become my summer mom uniform, I’ve accumulated a collection of options that I can always rely on. Here are 11 of the best workout dresses that I’ve been loving recently.
What is an exercise dress?
So, what exactly is an exercise dress? Well, it’s a style of athleisure that was first marketed by the brand Outdoor Voices in 2018, according to the Wall Street Journal. It’s an athleisure dress that typically incorporates a body suit with bike shorts. It often has a pocket in the shorts where you can key a phone or other essentials.
The style has become incredibly popular over the years, with a number of brands putting their own variation out on the market. And the popularity comes for a reason: It’s athletic wear that doesn’t look like it. It can easily be dressed up during the day or worn for getting active. Modeled from the tennis dress style, these workout dresses are especially popular for pickleball, tennis, hot girl walks, and more. You can dress it up with a button-up or top, and it wears like a cute mini dress. It’s versatile, cute, and practical—all the makings of a piece of clothing you’ll want to wear again and again.
And that rings true in my case. For me, I started picking up exercise dresses as a presentable outfit to wear on work calls while I walked on the treadmill of my standing desk. After buying one, I was hooked. Suddenly, I had the answer to practical dresses that I could run around in with a toddler. I no longer had to worry about having my dress lifted up in public or tripping over. And as we approach the warmer weather of the summer, I fully intend to make workout dresses a part of my daily wardrobe.
The Best Exercise Dresses to Buy Now
A simple A-line dress that I own in more than one color. The mini dress comes with built-in shorts (with a pocket!) and is available in both solid colors and prints. Even better, it’s one of the few options I’ve come across that’s available in petite and tall sizing as well.
10+ colors and patterns available
sizes XXS – XXL
Whether you’re going to play tennis or simply want a comfortable option for a casual lunch with friends, this dress from FP Movement has you covered. The material is made with UPF-rated protection, and the detailing on the back is super unique and pretty.
5 colors available
sizes XS – XL
As someone who is self-conscious of my midriff postpartum, I thought this dress would be a definite miss with the cut-out. But it’s so flattering, with a supportive bra built in and bike shorts peeking through the skirt for some added style. On particularly hot days, this is one I plan to live in this summer.
2 colors available
sizes XS – XL
While many of these dresses are built so the bike shorts underneath are hidden, this jog dress features slightly longer shorts so you can really move in it. Along with the built-in shorts, the dress has a shelf bra built in and a back-secured zip pocket so you can carry what you need while walking or jogging.
3 colors available
sizes XXS – XXL
For a little added texture, you can pick up this athletic dress that’s finished with scalloped edging. Available in a variety of colors, the built-in shorts come with a pocket that will fit your phone.
10+ colors available
sizes XS – XL
Lululemon knows what they’re doing when it comes to athleisure, and their Align Dress is no exception. Available in a gorgeous array of colors, this is made with the soft fabric the brand is known for. It’s perfect for casual wear, yoga, or any other type of exercise.
10+ colors available
sizes 0 – 20
Popflex has blown up recently after Taylor Swift was seen wearing a few items from the brand. And it’s no surprise when you see their selection of athletic gear! This dress is particularly fun, with a corset-style top finished off with a tiered, petticoat-style skirt. It’s feminine and flirty and adds a unique element to your typical exercise dress.
9 colors available
sizes XXS – 3X
Another option from Popflex is their Twirl Dress, which is a versatile dress that features an adjustable waist and swingy skirt.
3 colors available
sizes XXS – 3X
This simple style from Halara is available in every color under the sun and features UPF 50+ fabric for an added layer of sun protection. The look is finished off with a low back, perfect for hot summer days.
10+ colors available
sizes XS – 4X
While right on the edge of being an exercise dress, the Free People Hot Shot Mini Dress comes with built-in shorts and soft, lived-in fabric. This looks great on its own or with a short-sleeved T-shirt underneath.
4 colors available
sizes XS – XL
Made with sweat-wicking fabric, this dress from Aerie has built-in shorts and a built-in shelf bra for support. The pleated skirt makes for a fun look and can also double as a skirt if you throw a cropped T-shirt over your dress.
5 colors available
sizes XXS – XXL