Master the Art of Athleisure: How to Style an Exercise Dress with Ease

AvatarByJeff Duncan Exercise

Are you tired of sacrificing style for comfort when it comes to your exercise attire? Look no further, because we have the answer on how to style exercise dress. With the rise of athleisure fashion, workout attire has taken the fashion world by storm and has become a staple in many wardrobes. Gone are the days of baggy sweatpants and old t-shirts – now, workout clothes can be both functional and fashionable. In this article, we’ll explore the latest trends and tips on how to elevate your exercise dress game. Get ready to sweat in style!

Finding motivation to exercise can be a struggle for many people. However, having the right workout gear can not only make you feel more comfortable and confident, but it can also be a great way to boost your motivation. One of the most versatile pieces of workout clothing is an exercise dress. These dresses are not only comfortable and stylish, but they also provide flexibility and functionality for any type of workout. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about how to style an exercise dress for your next workout.

Choosing the Right Exercise Dress

The first step to styling an exercise dress is finding the right one for your body type and workout needs. When shopping for an exercise dress, look for fabrics that will keep you cool and dry during your workouts, such as moisture-wicking materials like nylon or spandex blends. Additionally, consider the cut and design of the dress. Choose a style that is not too tight or restricting, but also not too loose where it becomes a hazard during workouts.

If you have a pear-shaped body with wider hips and narrower shoulders, opt for an A-line or skater style dress that flares out at the bottom. This will help balance out your proportions. For those with an athletic or hourglass body shape, opt for a more fitted dress that accentuates your curves. If you have a straighter body type, try a dress with ruching or draping details to create a more curvaceous appearance.

Pick Your Workout Shoes

When it comes to choosing shoes to pair with your exercise dress, comfort is key. It’s important to wear shoes that provide proper support and stability during workouts. Running shoes are suitable for most types of exercises as they offer cushioning and shock absorption.

However, if you’re doing activities that require lateral movements such as dancing or aerobics, it’s essential to wear cross-training shoes that have a flatter sole and more stability. If you’re doing low-impact activities like yoga or Pilates, you can opt for barefoot or minimalist-style workout shoes for a more natural feel.

Layering with a Sports Bra

One of the great features of an exercise dress is that it can be easily layered with other workout gear for added support and coverage. One way to do this is by adding a sports bra underneath your dress. This not only provides extra support during your workouts but also helps to avoid any potential wardrobe malfunctions.

Look for sports bras with moisture-wicking materials and wide shoulder straps for added comfort. It’s also important to find a sports bra with the right level of support for your chosen activity, whether it be low-impact or high-impact.

Accessorize Wisely

While you want to keep your outfit simple and comfortable during workouts, adding a few accessories can elevate your exercise dress look. For outdoor activities, consider adding a sweat-wicking headband to keep your hair out of your face and prevent any sweat from dripping down.

A lightweight jacket or hoodie can also be layered over your dress in colder weather for added warmth. Opt for ones with zippered pockets to keep any essential items such as keys or phone secure while working out.

Hairstyling Tips

Styling your hair while working out may not seem like a necessary step, but having hair that is comfortable and out of the way can make all the difference in maintaining focus during workouts. For shorter styles, simply use some bobby pins or clips to pin back any flyaways. For longer hair, opt for hairstyles that keep hair away from the face such as ponytails, braids, or buns.

If you have thick or long hair that tends to get in the way or get sweaty easily, consider investing in a headband or sweatband to keep it securely in place.

Adding a Personal Touch with Makeup

For those who like to wear makeup during workouts, it’s important to choose products that are sweat-proof and long-lasting. Look for waterproof mascaras, long-wearing foundations, and tinted lip balms for a natural yet put-together look.

If you don’t want to wear heavy makeup while exercising, you can opt for tinted moisturizers or BB creams for a light coverage that will even out your skin tone and provide SPF protection.

Styled correctly, exercise dresses can be both functional and fashionable, giving you the motivation you need to crush your workout. From choosing the right dress and shoes to adding layers and personal touches with accessories and makeup, incorporating these tips will help make your next workout both stylish and effective. Remember to always prioritize comfort and functionality when styling your exercise dress to get the most out of your workout experience.

Benefits of Styling Exercise Dress

Styling your exercise dress can have more benefits than just making you look fashionable. While it may seem like a trivial task, the way you style your workout outfits can have a significant impact on your motivation and overall performance during your workouts.

First and foremost, styling your exercise dress can help you feel more confident and self-assured. This can play a big role in boosting your motivation to actually get dressed and get moving. When you know you look good, you feel good, and that positive mindset can carry over into your workout.

In addition to confidence, styling your exercise dress can also help with practicality. For example, adding some pockets to store your phone or keys can make it easier to keep them on hand while you are working out. Adding layers can also help regulate your body temperature during outdoor workouts or in fluctuating gym temperatures.

Another benefit of styling your exercise dress is the opportunity to express yourself. Your workout outfit is a reflection of who you are, and customizing it to fit your personal style allows for self-expression even during something as mundane as exercising.

Moreover, styling your exercise dress can improve functionality. Adding accessories like headbands or sweatbands not only add style but also serve the purpose of keeping sweat out of your eyes or hair off of your face. Choosing the right materials and styles for different types of workouts can also improve comfort and functionality.

Styling your exercise dress also allows for versatility in terms of where you wear it. With the rise of activewear as everyday fashion, wearing stylish workout attire outside of the gym has become more common. By thoughtfully styling your exercise dress, you can seamlessly transition from a workout to running errands without sacrificing comfort or style.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of looking put together while working out. Whether it’s for personal satisfaction or impressing others at the gym, being well-styled during a workout can boost your overall mood and make you feel more motivated to push yourself.

How to Choose the Right Exercise Dress

Choosing the right exercise dress is crucial for both comfort and functionality. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting an exercise dress:

– Material: The material of your exercise dress should be moisture-wicking, breathable, and comfortable against your skin. Avoid materials like cotton which tend to retain sweat and can leave you feeling uncomfortable and overheated.

– Fit: The fit of your exercise dress should allow for a full range of motion without being too tight or restrictive. Avoid dresses that are too short, as they can ride up during workouts and cause distraction or discomfort.

– Style: Consider the type of workout you will be doing when choosing the style of your exercise dress. For high-intensity activities, opt for form-fitting dresses that won’t get in the way. For low-impact workouts or running errands, looser styles may be more appropriate.

– Accessories: Think about any accessories you may need for your workout and choose an exercise dress with those in mind. For example, if you need to carry items with you, look for dresses with pockets or consider adding a small bag.

When trying on different exercise dresses, make sure to move around in them to ensure they are comfortable and stay in place during movement. Choose a size that fits comfortably but doesn’t feel too loose or too tight.

How to Style Your Exercise Dress

Styling your exercise dress is all about finding the balance between fashion and function. Here are some tips on how to style different types of exercise dresses:

1. Form-Fitting Dresses
For form-fitting dresses made from materials like spandex or compression fabrics, layering is key. Start with a sports bra or tank top underneath for added support. Add a lightweight jacket or sweater tied around your waist for a more casual look. Complete the look with a pair of sneakers and a headband to keep hair out of your face.

2. Loose-Fitting Dresses
Loose-fitting dresses, such as A-line or t-shirt dresses, provide more flexibility in terms of styling. Pair them with high-waisted leggings or bike shorts for added coverage and layering options. Choose a fun pattern or bright color to add some personality to your outfit. Finish off the look with comfortable sneakers and a sporty watch.

3. Midi or Maxi Dresses
Midi or maxi exercise dresses are perfect for those who prefer more coverage during their workouts. These types of dresses can be styled similarly to loose-fitting dresses with the addition of bike shorts or high-waisted leggings underneath. Opt for a dress with side slits for added movement and pair it with comfortable slip-on sandals or stylish sneakers.

4. Skater Dresses
Skater dresses are great for those who want to add some feminine flair to their workout attire. The flared skirt of these dresses allows for full range of motion while still providing coverage. Style these dresses with leggings or bike shorts underneath, sneakers, and a baseball cap for a trendy and functional look.

Remember to choose accessories that serve both style and

What is the first step to styling an exercise dress?
The first step to styling an exercise dress is to choose the right fit and fabric. Make sure the dress is not too tight or too revealing, and opt for breathable materials like cotton or polyester.

Can I add accessories to my exercise dress?
Yes, you can add accessories like a hat, headband, or wristbands to your exercise dress. Just make sure they are made of sweat-absorbent material and won’t get in the way of your workout.

What type of shoes should I wear with an exercise dress?
The type of shoes you wear with an exercise dress depends on the activity you’ll be doing. For running or walking, opt for supportive sneakers. For yoga or pilates, barefoot or grip socks can be a good choice.

Are there any rules for wearing an exercise dress?
There are no specific rules for wearing an exercise dress, but it’s important to choose one that makes you feel comfortable and confident. You may also consider the appropriateness of your outfit if you plan on exercising in a public setting.

Can I wear my exercise dress outside of the gym?
Yes, depending on the style of your exercise dress, it can be worn as a casual outfit outside of the gym as well. Pair it with sandals and a denim jacket for a more casual look or add sneakers and a sports jacket for a sporty vibe.

How should I care for my exercise dress?
To keep your exercise dress looking its best, it’s important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Generally, it’s recommended to wash them after each use using cold water and mild detergent to preserve their color and shape. Hang them to dry instead of using a dryer to prevent shrinkage.

In conclusion, learning how to style an exercise dress can offer a range of options for creating comfortable and fashionable looks while staying active. From layering with sports bras and jackets to accessorizing with sneakers and statement necklaces, there are endless ways to personalize an exercise dress for any occasion. Additionally, understanding the fabric, fit, and purpose of the dress can provide insight into which styling techniques may work best for each individual. Embracing a balance between function and fashion can ultimately improve confidence and motivation in one’s fitness journey. So whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or running errands, incorporating these tips on styling exercise dresses can elevate any workout wardrobe. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that with a bit of creativity and intentionality, exercise dresses can be transformed into versatile pieces that make staying active both effortless and stylish.

Author Profile

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Jeff Duncan
Jeff Duncan, the owner and Head Coach of CrossFit Pearl District, is dedicated to fostering a supportive and effective training environment.

With a strong belief in the principles of movement mechanics, consistency, and intensity, Jeff has cultivated a community that thrives on continuous improvement and mutual support.

From 2024, Jeff Duncan has expanded his passion for CrossFit beyond coaching by writing an informative blog dedicated to the CrossFit niche. His blog features a variety of content aimed at providing valuable information and insights to the CrossFit community.

Jeff’s posts cover a wide range of topics including training techniques, nutrition advice, workout routines, and answers to common queries within the niche. This transition to blogging allows Jeff to reach a broader audience, sharing his expertise and helping individuals at all levels of their fitness journey.