It’s the all-in-one wardrobe staple.
Image: Outdoor Voices.Source:BodyAndSoul
We’ve rounded up the best exercise dresses that are stylish, comfortable and perfect for any activity, whether that be working out or lounging about.
TikTok has quickly become the go-to place for all the latest fashion trends and greatest product finds. But one of 2022’s biggest crazes saturating everyone's For You page has to be the exercise dress.
No longer reserved for golf and tennis, these frocks have now become the wardrobe staple for workouts, running errands, WFH days, lunch dates and basically any activity that doesn’t require a mandatory outfit. Plus, not only are they cute and comfortable but they come with all the support and features of your tank-and-leggings kit like built-in bras and pockets(!).
Here, we’ve rounded up the best exercise dresses you can effortlessly throw on and instantly feel great.
Outdoor Voices Move Free TechSweat Tennis Dress, $100 at Net-A-Porter
Outdoor Voices Move Free TechSweat Tennis Dress. Image: Outdoor VoicesSource:BodyAndSoul
The OG of all exercise dresses, Outdoor Voices frocks were the ones that started the whole trend. They were first introduced back in 2018 but really took off in 2021 (especially on TikTok) when the designs got an update with improved features like extra pockets, internal leg grips and adjustable straps. We particularly like how the cuts are fitted but not overly done, so you still have plenty of room to move while feeling supported in all the right places.
It used to be difficult for Aussies to get their hands on OV's sell-out pieces but thankfully, Net-A-Porter now stocks a few from their range, including this Move Free dress (there’s also a one-shoulder cut, which is equally as gorgeous). Just a word of warning: they sell out very quickly so if you see your size, run, don’t walk.
HDE Exercise Workout Dress, from $56.38 at Amazon
HDE Exercise Workout Dress. Image: Amazon Australia.Source:BodyAndSoul
This dress from HDE has been dubbed as the budget-friendly Outdoor Voices dupe. But despite being cheaper, it still comes with all the quality and features including moisture-wicking fabric and built-in bike shorts with pockets to store your necessities like a phone, keys and credit cards.
One person admitted: “Seriously cannot tell the difference in this dress and the one from Outdoor Voices, which is exactly what I was hoping for when I ordered it. Fabric is excellent quality and fit is great.”
Taller customers have also been pleased with the slightly longer skirt length.
“Great dress for the price! I love the athletic, moisture-wicking material,” another five-star reviewer wrote. “It’s very comfortable and the built-in shorts are great. I’m pretty tall so it helps me to feel more comfortable with a shorter dress.”
You can find it in a plethora of colourways and prints, with sizes running from XS (US 0-2) to XL (US 12-14).
Aim’n Rouge Strap Dress, $115 at The Iconic
Aim’n Rouge Strap Dress. Image: The Iconic.Source:BodyAndSoul
Don’t let the pretty print fool you. This exercise dress is ideal for any activity — workout-related or not — as it’s designed with adjustable straps, removable pads and concealed shorts with pockets. Pair it with your favourite sneakers and crew-cut socks when out on the court or dress it up with sandals, a nude handbag, hoop earrings and sunglasses for a brunch date with your friends.
Power Workout Dress, $175 at Sweaty Betty
Sweaty Betty Power Workout Dress. Image: Sweaty Betty.Source:BodyAndSoul
Some dresses are designed for everyday casual wear and exercise but this one from Sweaty Betty is specifically made for intense cardio sessions (read: HIIT and running) because it’s incredibly compressive and supportive.
“It's going to be hard to go back to running tights after wearing this dress for my runs,” one five-star reviewer wrote. “It's so comfortable, breathes well and is super cute.”
Because it provides optimal compression, many users have also raved about how well it contours and flatters the body, which is definitely nothing to complain about.
NikeCourt Dri-FIT Victory, $100 at Nike
NikeCourt Dri-FIT Victory. Image: Nike.Source:BodyAndSoul
We can’t decide what’s more impressive about this Nike frock — the sophisticated V-neck and mock collar, the premium sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology it’s been crafted from or the fact that it’s made of at least 75 per cent recycled polyester fibres. For added breathability, it also features a keyhole cut-out at the back and the pleats behind move in a way that helps circulate airflow better. It doesn’t come with built-in or separate shorts, which actually gives you the freedom to wear your favourite shorts underneath (plus, bathroom trips won’t be such a struggle).
Adidas Original Adicolor Essentials Rib Tank Dress, $50 at The Iconic
Adidas Original Adicolor Essentials Rib Tank Dress. Image: The Iconic.Source:BodyAndSoul
Whether you’re working from home, lounging around on the weekend or heading to the supermarket, this is the dress you want to be doing it all in. Because it’s crafted from cotton and designed with a slim cut, you won’t want to wear this during exercise as it won’t provide the breathability or flexibility you need. However, pack it in your gym bag to change into post-sweat sesh for an effortlessly fashionable look.
Cugoao Tennis Dress, from $68.62 at Amazon
Cugoao Tennis Dress. Image: Amazon Australia.Source:BodyAndSoul
If you’re not a fan of built-in shorts, opt for a two-piece set like this budget-friendly dress from Amazon that has over 390+ five-star reviews. It comes with separate shorts that are designed with an elasticised waistband and two pockets big enough to store tennis balls or a large phone. The dress is crafted from a buttery soft material that’s breathable and feels incredible against the skin.
One person summed it up, saying: “I love everything about this dress. I have worn it both for tennis and for going out. It’s very comfortable and flattering.”
It comes in five cute hues, including a classic black and a dreamy pastel blue.
Paloma Racerback Dress, approximately $131 at Girlfriend Collective
Paloma Racerback Dress. Image: Girlfriend Collective.Source:BodyAndSoul
Girlfriend Collective’s dresses tick every box: supportive but not constricting, breathable, super stylish and eco-conscious (made from 79 per cent recycled plastic bottles, to be exact). But the most notable feature has to be the brand’s awareness of size inclusivity. The Paloma comes in sizes from 2XS to 6XL, making it one of the most inclusive picks you’ll find on the market. It’s also designed with a built-in unitard with a bra and elastic support band at the bust so even those with larger breasts will be able to fit into it comfortably. Five-stars all-around here.
Court Crush Dress, $149 at Lululemon
Court Crush Dress. Image: Lululemon.Source:BodyAndSoul
Although designed for tennis in mind, the Court Crush Dress will also get you through any other outdoor activity or high-intensity training. That’s because it’s crafted from the brand’s famous Everlux fabric, which is their fast-drying material that’s breathable, sweat-wicking, supportive and provides four-way stretch. The material also contours your body to give you that boost of confidence you need to power through your sweat sesh.
Which workout dress is the best?
There are a few factors to consider when choosing the best workout dress for you.
What do you wear with an exercise dress?
The options are limitless when it comes to styling an exercise dress. To exercise, wear your workout dress with your favourite sneakers and low-cut or crew-cut socks. Head and wrist sweatbands will also give your fit a Sporty Spice look.
If you’re heading out to brunch afterwards, simply tie a button-down around your waist to elevate your look. You can even throw on a puffer jacket over your dress during the cooler months. If you’re wanting to dress up your workout dress a fair bit, pair it with a denim jacket or oversized blazer and strappy sandals. Chic!
Can you work out in a dress?
It may come across as a little odd to trade in your compression leggings and singlet for a dress. Is it really possible to get a proper workout while wearing a dress? Are they more fashionable than functional?
The short answer is yes, you can work out in one. As the name suggests, exercise dresses are made with exercise in mind. A good quality one will be made with sweat-wicking material and have features like a built-in bra, shorts, pockets and adjustable straps, to help you perform at your absolute best.
In saying this, certain activities aren’t necessarily the most exercise-dress-friendly (for example, marathon running) and you may feel more comfortable wearing your regular tank-and-leggings kit. It’s really up to you and what gives you the motivation to perform at your absolute best.
Hunting for more stellar workout gear? Check out our roundup of the best high-waisted leggings to suit every body plus, the best compression tops that will boost your performance. Now you're ready to shop, discover The Iconic discount codes in our coupons section so you never miss out on the best sportswear deals.
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