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Oct 27, 2023

Our Favorite Athletic Dresses to Wear All Summer Long

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Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

We simply can't deny it…from running errands to hitting the tennis courts, there's no better summer outfit than an athletic dress. With the luxury sport resurgence still in full swing, your favorite brands are coming up with even more options for the one-and-done ’fit, and we can't stop buying.

Here we’ve rounded up the best activewear dresses, from preppy to sporty styles, so no matter what you’re doing, you’ll feel cool, comfortable, and collected. It's an active dress summer.

If you spend any amount of time on Instagram, you’ve likely spotted influencers wearing activewear from Alo. Unfortunately for our wallets, their clothes really are that good — and last for years. This dress is just as perfect for a tennis match as it is for brunch with your girlfriends. It has a built-in bra and shorts, plus adjustable straps. Grab the black for a classic look or one of the bright colors to fully embrace summer. ($118, Alo)

Pro tip: Don't sleep on Free People Movement. The brand's in-house activewear line makes sports bra tops, compression shorts, and more. This dress is truly like no other athletic dress we’ve ever seen. From the side cutouts to the strappy back, we’re obsessed. Plus, the contrast binding is giving us Meredith Blake vibes. Psst…There's also a convenient phone pocket in the built-in shorts. ($128, Free People)

Speaking of not sleeping on activewear brands, did you know Hollister has its own line? This athletic dress is a great basic style you’ll reach for day after day, with its flattering sweetheart neckline and criss-cross straps in the back. We love that you can take the pads out of the bra if you’d like, and that it's made with recycled materials. ($59.95, Gilly Hicks)

Historians disagree, but most will say the Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress was one of the first on the market. It's still a mainstay for a reason; the silhouette hugs you in all the right places but isn't too tight or constricting. We love that it's a bit longer than other dresses and has grippy edges on the built-in shorts so they never ride up. ($100, Outdoor Voices)

While you’re browsing summer dresses, why not add an athletic dress to your cart? What makes this one special is the square neck that's great for fuller chests and the peekaboo skort bottom that shows off a little thigh. Add yourself to the waitlist for the black or grab the polka dots; we think they’re just as cool. ($98, Reformation)

If you love your Align leggings, we have a dress for you. This one is made of the same soft, buttery fabric and conforms to your body as you move. The light support bra allows you to wear another sports bra underneath when you’re exercising or skip the extra bra when you’re on-the-go. Check back if your size is unavailable, since they often restock and go quickly. Psst…The Align bike shorts are absolutely worth it, too. ($148, Lululemon)

Trust us, this sustainable option will quickly become your everyday summer uniform. The ribbed fabric makes it unique, the scoop neck is incredibly flattering, and the two bright, juicy colors have us swooning. We love that it comes in sizes XXS to 6XL. ($98, Girlfriend Collective)

Channel your inner Serena Williams with this Nike active dress that has a cute back cutout (which actually provides ventilation). It's made of moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool, with a flared skirt that won't bunch. Just add black shades and gold hoops for an off-duty model look. ($90, Net-A-Porter)

Aerie based this dress on one of their bestselling tops, so it's no wonder it's so popular. It has the appearance of a top and a wrap-around skort put together, which we love. Don't worry, the built-in shorts have pockets on both sides. It comes in black and three bright colors. ($41.97, Aerie)

"Quiet luxury" is bigger than ever. We’re talking minimalism and investment pieces. So add this one to your collection: It's a simple black and white number that features zero logos and is begging to be paired with your favorite everyday jewelry and a vintage handbag. ($168, Revolve)

Real ones know Old Navy makes great activewear. This dress is no exception. It's made of soft, breathable knit fabric, keeps everything secure while you’re running around, and comes in five colors and a print. We love that it's available in such a wide range of sizes and lengths. ($44.99, Old Navy)

This looks like something your mom wore in the ’70s, in the best way possible. It has a V-neck with colored accents plus a fun pleated skirt, and it comes in a chic summer white. Just be aware, this one does not have built-in shorts. ($179, Tory Burch)

There's a lot to love about this Amazon dress — including the low price point. It has a built-in onesie underneath and adjustable crisscross straps in the back…plus, it's made with moisture-wicking fabric and comes in sizes XS–XXL and 11 colors. Absolute serve. ($37.99+, Amazon)

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