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The Exercise Dress Revolution: Athleisure’s New Star
As the sun rises on the world of activewear, one trend is garnering attention like never before: the exercise dress. Initially designed for sports courts and golf outings, this versatile piece is now making its mark in gyms, parks, and casual outings. With a melding of style and functionality, exercise dresses are appealing to athletes and casual wearers alike.
The Perfect Fit for Active Lifestyles
Shape’s personal trainer and avid tennis player embarked on a mission to test the best exercise dresses on the market, embracing everything from high-intensity workouts to leisurely weekend activities. The criteria? A successful blend of sweat-wicking materials, built-in shorts with pockets, and adjustable straps for that elusive perfect fit.
The exercise dress needs to do more than just look good; it must support movement without being restrictive. As this model shows, finding the right dress can turn working out into a fashionable affair.
Top Contenders Reviewed
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Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress
- Score: 5
- Celebrated as the OG of exercise dresses, this classic features adjustable straps and a fantastic short liner equipped with sticky grippers, making it ideal for everything from tennis to casual outings. While it may not wick moisture as effectively as others, its versatility makes it a must-have.
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Movement Never Better Dress
- Score: 4
- With a fashion-forward open-back cutout and side slit, it combines style and functionality. While it’s snug and has built-in shorts, users might find the minimal chest support requires layering.
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Athleta Match Point Dress
- Score: 4
- For those seeking ultimate comfort during hot weather, this lightweight piece offers UPF 40+ sun protection and dries quickly. Its lack of built-in features provides a choose-your-own-adventure moment, perfect for customization.
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Lululemon Align Dress
- Score: 4
- Made from the popular Align fabric, this dress is soft and comfortable but is better suited for low-impact activities. Perfect for casual outings, it makes dressing up feel effortless.
- Abercrombie SculptLux Mini Dress
- Score: 5
- Combining style with functionality, it includes built-in shorts, an adjustable padded shelf bra, and an open-back waistband. Testing revealed it performs well even in intense workouts.
Other solid picks also emerged, each offering unique features tailored for different activities, from running errands to engaging in high-energy sports.
The Future is Functional Fashion
The rise of the exercise dress speaks to a broader movement in the athleisure trend where comfort meets style. "The best materials for exercise dresses include lightweight synthetics that allow for movement and breathability," says Michaela Gordon, All-American and former Stanford player.
Expert opinions emphasize the importance of fit, especially during dynamic activities. Tailoring the dress to the individual’s needs creates an experience that feels seamless between workout and everyday life.
Conclusion
As exercise dresses continue to evolve, they redefine how we perceive athletic wear, transforming it from simple functionality into a stylish statement. Whether hitting the courts or strolling through a farmer’s market, the exercise dress champions versatility and comfort without compromising on style.
In the ever-expanding world of fitness fashion, it seems this trend is here to stay, proving that one can indeed dress for success—no matter the activity.